Dental Assistant - Technical Diploma
As a dental assistant, you work with dentists as they examine and treat patients. You may carry out a variety of laboratory, clinical, and office duties such as patient scheduling and bookkeeping functions. While dental assistants typically work in general or specialty dental offices, you may also choose to work for insurance companies, dental lab studios, or dental supply companies. You may also find employment with federal agencies such as the Veterans Administration, US Public Health Services, the Armed Forces, or a state, county, or city health facility. Students have the opportunity to achieve certification as a dental assistant by passing the Dental Assistant National Board (DANB).The Dental Assistant program is accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation.
Program Costs & Financial Aid
See costs of tuition, books, and supplies.This program is partially eligible for financial aid.
Estimates based on in-state residency. Learn more about tuition and fees.
Explore Locations
Delivery
How do I get started in this program?
Requirements for Program Entry
- Apply at www.nwtc.edu/apply.
- Submit the following:
- High school transcript (or GED/HSED transcript).
- College transcript.
- If your cumulative GPA is below 2.6, complete or submit a placement evaluation.
- Complete these prerequisite requirements (unless already completed):
- Caregiver background check and vaccine records.
- Tip! Our admission advisors will assist you through every step. Have questions? Connect with NWTC Admissions at start@nwtc.edu or 920-498-5444.
What are my courses?
Curriculum
Students following the study plan below will complete the Dental Assistant technical diploma in the number of semesters shown. Start dates for the first semester are September and January.
First Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Second Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Third Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Full Semester
- Curriculum Note: Students must earn a "C" or higher in all 31-508-XXX and 10-508-XXX courses. A student who withdraws or receives a grade lower than a “C” in a program course may apply for re-entry into the program. Consideration for re-entry will be at the discretion of the re-entry team.
- The following courses may transfer into the Dental Hygiene Associate Degree program: 10-508-101, Dental Health Safety; 10-508-103, Dental Radiography Application; 10-508-113, Dental Materials; 10-508-120, Dental Office Management
- The credit for 10-890-101, College 101 is an Institutional Requirement for graduation. Consequently, it is not part of the program credit requirements, but must be passed with a "C" or better.
Program Outcomes
- Perform a variety of advanced supportive dental procedures
- Manage infection and hazard control.
- Produce diagnostic intraoral and extraoral images on a variety of patients
- Perform advanced dental laboratory procedures
- Demonstrate professional behaviors, ethics, and appearance
- Perform dental office business procedures
What careers are in my future?
Graduate Employment
with 86% in field
Median Starting Salary
Source: NWTC Graduate Outcome Survey
Employment Potential
The program prepares graduates to work with dentists as they examine and treat patients. Dental assistants may carry out a variety of laboratory, clinical, and office duties, such as patient scheduling and bookkeeping functions. Dental assistants typically work in general or specialty dental offices. Some dental assistants may work for insurance companies, dental lab studios, or dental supply companies. The dental assistant may also find employment with federal agencies such as the Veterans Administration, US Public Health Services, the Armed Forces, or a state, county, or city health facility.
- Graduates may find employment as a:
- Dental Assistant
- Dental Office Manager
- Dental Laboratory Assistant
- Dental Laboratory Technician
- Dental Treatment Coordinator
- Maxillofacial Dental Assistant
- Endodontic Dental Assistant
- Prosthodontic Dental Assistant
- Dental Receptionist
- Dental Practice Manager
- Dental Sales Representative
- Orthodontic Dental Assistant
- Pediatric Dental Assistant
- Periodontic Dental Assistant
What else do I need to know about the program?
Accreditation
The Dental Assistant program is accredited by the American Dental Association-Commission on Dental Accreditation 211 East Chicago Avenue Chicago, IL 60611-2678 (312) 440-2500
Industry Credentials
Graduates will be provided the opportunity to obtain the CDA credential.
Clinical Experience
- Students will be required to purchase clinical scrubs and shoes and provide their own transportation to the dental office.
- Students are required to complete an American Heart Association BLS Provider course prior to or during their first semester.
- Submit required immunization documentation. A fee is charged for this service. Additional information will be provided upon acceptance into the program.
Wisconsin Caregiver Law
NWTC is required to comply with the Wisconsin Caregiver Law (1997 WISCONSIN ACT 27). The completion of a caregiver background check includes the review of criminal records for convictions of serious crimes or a history of improper behavior. Students accepted into this program must complete a background check through www.viewpointscreening.com/nwtc AND complete a Background Information Disclosure (BID) form disclosing any acts, crimes, or convictions prior to program entry and/or clinical, practicum, field experience. The information provided in the BID form must be truthful and match any findings on the criminal record check. Information regarding this process is provided to students immediately upon acceptance into the program. Please review your entry/admission checklist. Students with a criminal history may be denied access to placement at the discretion of the clinical, practicum, or field experience site. Consequently, should a student have a history of convictions of serious crimes or a history of improper behaviors, NWTC cannot guarantee clinical/practicum/field experience placement or guarantee graduation.
Study Abroad Opportunities
The International Programs staff continually seeks opportunities for students to travel abroad for educational experiences that may be offered in association with program courses.
Learn more about upcoming study abroad opportunities.
Defy expectations and follow your passion
Dream jobs have nothing to do with gender. Discover the benefits of nontraditional occupations.
- Online
-
Classes wherever you have an internet connection.
- An in-person career experience, such as an internship, practicum, or credit for prior learning, may be required.
- Some online courses may be held at specific dates/times.
- Day
- Classes between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
- Evening
- Classes between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
- Weekend
- A combination of online classes and Saturday and/or Sunday classes.
- Full-time
- 12 or more credits per term.
- Part-time
- Fewer than 12 credits per term.