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Program Information at a Glance

 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Employment

Employment of dental assistants is projected to grow 8% from 2020-2030, faster than the average for all occupations.

Job Openings

Average of 56,400 job openings per year. Private, corporate, and government practices hire year round.

Starting Wages

Average starting wages of $38,660 per year, $18.59 per hour. Specialties and private offices can start at more than the average.

About Our Program

  • Hybrid online and in-class, evening class sessions to accommodate working students.
  • Flexible scheduling placement for externship sites. 11-16 hours a week after the 8th week of class.
  • 3 semesters, a total of 12 months with week-long breaks in between 16 week sessions. 
  • California Dental board-approved courses in:
    • 2 - Hour Dental Practice Act
    • 8 - Hour Infection Control
    • 32 - Hour Radiation Safety
    • 12 - Hour Coronal Polish

Our mission is to give Modesto Junior College Dental Assisting Program students the support to start a new career with confidence and expanded opportunities.

S
tudents will complete real-world clinical experiences while attending the 12-month program, which prepares for an intro-level position in one of the fastest-growing careers in the allied health industry. 

Students will acquire skills in both the roles of clinical and clerical position, including Dental Board-Approved Certifications in Infection Control, Dental Practice Act, Radiation Safety, and Coronal Polish, training of patient care, taking dental impressions and fabricating dental molds, assisting the dentist and other healthcare personnel, instrumentation, dental imaging.

Be certified and equipped to begin a career as a professional dental assistant!