Dental Assistant
Program Number:
305082
Less than One Year Technical Diploma
Program Courses offered at the following Campuses:
About
The Dental Assistant Program gives students an orientation to the duties of the dental assistant, including chairside assisting, laboratory techniques and dental radiography. Didactic instruction runs concurrently with laboratory instruction throughout the program. Students gain clinical experience in Madison Area Technical College clinical facilities and district dental offices. Aptitudes which will be helpful to students are an ability to pay attention to details, follow instructions, work quickly and independently, be responsible for personal and office organization, interact well with people and be able to manage stress.
Dental Assistant is a one-semester program. Students are accepted for both fall and spring semesters.
Admissions
Requirements for Program Application
The following is required to process your application:
- Official High School transcripts OR official HSED/GED transcripts (this requirement is waived for applicants who have transcripts on file documenting the achievement of an Associate Degree or higher from an institution other than Madison College)
- COMPASS, ASSET, ACT or SAT test scores
For program waitlist information, refer to the Admission Information and Next Steps below.
Admission Processing Deadlines:
Fall 2012
Madison College begins collecting applications for the following year's fall semester on September 1, 2011. For this program applications and credentials must be received by February 17, 2012, to be considered for the fall semester.
Spring 2013
Madison College begins collecting applications for the following year's spring semester on January 16, 2012. For this program applications and credentials must be received by October 15, 2012, to be considered for the spring semester.
Admission information and Next Steps:
Program Outcomes
Program Outcomes:
A graduate of the Dental Assistant program will be able to:
- Perform a variety of entry-level supportive dental procedures
- Manage infection and hazard control
- Produce diagnostic radiographs
- Perform basic dental laboratory procedures
- Demonstrate professional behaviors, ethics and appearance
Employment
Career Potential:
View Gainful Employment Information.
-
Chairside Assistants
Work directly with the dentist in the treatment area. -
Laboratory Assistants
Perform laboratory functions as directed by the dentist. -
Receptionists/Office Assistants
Are responsible for the operation of the business office. -
Claims Approvers
Work for an insurance company approving dental insurance claims.
With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:
-
Dental Office Managers
Are responsible for the operation of the practice. -
Dental Laboratory Technicians
Perform the mechanical, technically skilled tasks specified by the written prescription of the dentist. -
Dental Sales Representative
Work for a dental supply business, which provides products and services to dental offices
Additional Info
- Physical exam and completed Health History Form (PDF) on file prior to beginning of the semester that you are in your clinical affiliation.
- Caregiver Background Check (CBC is required for this Program.
- Students must be certified in health care provider CPR before beginning Dental Assistant clinical course work
Estimated Fees for Dental Assistant (13.58PDF KB)
Last Modified: January 18, 2012