Dallas College offers a 13-week dental assisting program designed for students aiming to become licensed Registered Dental Assistants (RDA) in Texas. The program provides a mix of classroom instruction, lab simulations, and hands-on clinical externships, preparing students for the Texas RDA certification exams in radiology, infection control, and jurisprudence.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The dental assisting curriculum at Dallas College covers essential skills, such as four-handed chairside techniques, radiography (including digital and panoramic), and infection control. Additionally, students learn to take dental impressions for creating custom trays and study models. The program is structured into three courses, including a clinical externship in a real dental setting, allowing students to gain hands-on experience.
Hybrid Format with In-Person Externship
Dallas College’s dental assistant program utilizes a hybrid format, with online lectures and in-person labs held at the El Centro Campus in Dallas. Students need reliable transportation to attend the two-week clinical externship, a key component that provides real-world practice in a dental office.
Admissions Requirements
To enroll, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. Admission also requires completing a comprehensive application packet, including immunization records, a TB screening, and CPR certification from the American Heart Association. Background checks and drug screenings are also required post-acceptance.
Prerequisites
Applicants must meet the following prerequisites:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent
- Submit immunization records, TB screening, and CPR certification
- Complete a criminal background check and drug screening upon acceptance
Financial Information
The program’s estimated cost is between $1,970 and $2,080, covering tuition, textbooks, uniform, CPR certification, and background checks. Financial aid is available, including the Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG) for eligible students, which applies to tuition fees.
Certification Preparation
After completing the coursework, students can take the Texas RDA exams at Dallas College. Passing these exams allows students to apply for the RDA license, which includes certification in nitrous oxide-oxygen sedation monitoring. This certification provides added qualifications for Texas-based dental assisting roles.
Reasons to Consider This School
Dallas College’s program is ideal for students seeking quick entry into dental assisting through a balanced hybrid format and hands-on externship experience. The program’s affordability, practical training, and multiple start dates each year are appealing strengths. However, the hybrid setup may not suit those preferring a fully in-person approach.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $1,970 – $2,080 |
| Program Duration | 13 weeks |
| Class Schedules | Hybrid format with online lectures, in-person labs, and externship |
| Classes Offered | Chairside Assisting, Clinical Dental Assistant, Nitrous Oxide-Oxygen Sedation Monitoring |
| Admission Requirements | Age 18+, high school diploma or equivalent, immunizations, CPR certification, background check, drug screening |
| Online Classes? | Partial (hybrid format) |
| Job Placement? | No specific job placement support indicated |
| Financial Aid Options | Texas Public Education Grant (TPEG) available for those who qualify |
| Location | 1601 Botham Jean Blvd., Dallas, TX 75215 |
| Phone | 214-378-1500 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | Dallas College Dental Assisting Program |
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