Dental Assistant
16-credit Technical Diploma
Program Code 30-508-2
Dental assistants perform a variety of patient care, office and laboratory responsibilities. In this program, learn to use dental equipment, expose and process radiographs, assist with dental emergencies, record medical and dental information, maintain a supply inventory, and perform related dental office and laboratory procedures under the direction and supervision of a dentist.
How Long It Will Take
Full-time students can complete this program in one semester.
Start Date
You can begin this program in the fall or spring semester.
How This Program Is Offered
This is offered on campus in a traditional classroom/lab setting. Some hybrid/online courses are available.
What Makes This Program Unique
- As a Dental Assistant student, perform oral health presentations at district grade schools to help educate children on the importance of dental care.
- Along with Dental Hygiene students, hold sealant clinics at district grade schools and Head Start, and perform dental cleanings for special needs clients at a special needs clinic.
- Involvement with the Dental Assisting Club helps promote the dental-assisting profession in matters of education, legislation, credentialing and professional activities that enhance the delivery of quality dental health care.
Courses You'll Take
For the courses you’ll take, semester sequence, pathways and course descriptions, view the program catalog page. Please note, you will need to complete a background check in order to begin core courses.
This program requires valid BLS Provider certification. If you are currently certified and need to maintain your status, WCTC also offers a BLS Provider Renewal course.
Credit for Prior Learning
You may have the opportunity to obtain credit for the college-level skills and knowledge you've already acquired. Learn more about credit for prior learning.
How To Apply
- Apply online and pay the $30 application fee.
- Submit official high school transcript.
- Complete placement assessment (Reading and Writing).
Still have questions? Visit the Admissions page or contact the Office of Admissions | 262.691.5200.
Deadlines To Know*
Fall 2020 Start
- Submit application by March 2, 2020
- Complete checklist items by March 16, 2020
Spring 2021 Start
- Submit application by August 31, 2020
- Complete checklist items by September 28, 2020
* Application deadlines are subject to change based on program demand.
Financial Aid Eligibility
For this program, financial aid only covers courses. Loans and other aid will be prorated.
Learn more about financial aid.
Cost
The cost of your degree depends on a number of factors, including where you live, how your program is delivered, how long it takes to finish your program and the financial aid you receive.
Learn more about tuition and fees.
Career Salaries
$33,000 – $45,000 annually
Salary range estimates based on wages for related occupations in Waukesha County as reported by Economic Modeling Specialists International (EMSI). Individual wages may vary based on experience, industry, location and specific job requirements.
Check the WCTC Graduate Success Report to view our graduates’ entry wages.
Potential Careers
If you have an interest in the healthcare field, specifically, the dental field, and have a reassuring chairside manner, a job as a dental assistant may be for you. Those working in this field are professional, pay attention to detail, have strong communication skills and enjoy working on a team.
- Dental Assistant
- Orthodontic Assistant
Information About Blood-borne Pathogens
All programs at WCTC comply with local, state, and federal infection control policies, including the use of standard precautions as stipulated by current CDC guidelines. Written policies and instructions on infection control protocol to minimize the risk of disease transmission is provided throughout the courses in the curriculum. Compliance of safety practices is evaluated throughout your clinical experiences to ensure a safe educational environment.