What can I do with a registered dental assisting certificate/degree?
The registered dental assisting program provides an excellent path for those interested in a variety of professions in the dental field. Employment opportunities for graduates include, but are not limited to, chairside assistant or front office administrator for dental offices or clinics, x-ray technician for dental radiation laboratories, agent for dental insurance companies, lab technician for dental laboratories, product representative for dental product manufacturers, or marketing agent for dental supply companies.
Options also exist for continuing education and licensing to become a Registered Dental Assistant with Expanded Functions (RDAEF), a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH), or a dentist (DDS or DMD).
Selected courses may meet lower division requirements for a bachelor of arts degree at selected campuses of CSU or the bachelor of arts degree in health administration at private universities. Interested students should consult with the dental instructors or with the college counselors for more information.
When are classes offered?
The required registered dental assisting program classes are taught only during the day; however, the general education courses required for the certificate or degree may be taken in the evening or at an alternate location.
How long will it take to earn a certificate/degree?
The 11 month program is scheduled to begin each fall term (August) and the registered dental assisting courses will be completed by the middle of June. This is a consecutive two term plus a two week summer session program. In addition this certificate program requires nine units of general education to be completed prior to enrollment or may be taken during the 11 month program of study. These courses must be completed prior to applying to take the state licensing examination. To be eligible for enrollment in the registered dental assisting program, students must complete the specified prerequisite course DENTL 120 (six hours) which is offered in the first two weeks of June. Associate degree requirements generally can be completed in two years of full-time study.
Where can I get more information?
Contact the Department Program Coordinator Linda Bartolomucci Boyd at: dvcdental@yahoo.com or 925-685-1230, ext. 2420.
Dental Department Administrative Assistant contact: 925-685-1230, ext. 2356 or visit the college web site: www.dvc.edu
For program information or requirements go to: www.dvc.edu/programs
