Dental Assistant
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Classes begin October 2025!
CTE PROGRAMS INFORMATION SESSION IS OPEN!
This is the first step to enrolling in the Dental Assistant Program. During this session you will learn more about the Dental Assistant Program as well as the next steps needed to enroll in the program.
ABOUT THE DENTAL ASSISTANT PROGRAM
Become an integral part of the dental care team! In our California Dental Board-approved course, you will learn dental sciences and the chair-side skills necessary to be a Registered Dental Assistant. Graduates meet the qualifying standards to take the California Registered Dental Assistant Examination.
Students completing the Dental Assistant Program leave with the following certificates:
- Dental Assistant Program Certificate
- Radiology - Radiation Safety
- Infection Control
- California Dental Practice Act
- Coronal Polish
- Pit & Fissure
Length of Program: 10 Months
Cost: $7,381 - Funding options available for qualified students. Interest-free payment plans available.
Schedule:
Weeks 1-7: T & TH 7:00-9:00pm via ZOOM
Weeks 3-7: T, TH 7:00-9:00pm via ZOOM and F 8:30am-3:00pm on campus (clinical lab)
Weeks 8-31: M,T,W,TH 8:30am-3:00pm on campus
Weeks 32-40: 9-week Externship - hours vary
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
- To prepare students to develop skills and competencies required to perform Registered Dental Assistant chair-side duties.
- To prepare students to confidently apply skills and techniques necessary to expose radiographs, perform coronal polishing, and apply pit and fissure sealants.
- To prepare students for entry level positions in dental assisting.
- To prepare student to successfully complete the Dental Board of California certifying exam for Registered Dental Assistant licensure.
COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS
To receive a certificate of completion, a student must:
- Meet the minimum attendance requirement of 95%.
- Maintain an 80% on tests.
- Obtain a minimum of 80% on all skills assessments.
- Pass the mid-term and final examinations with a minimum of 80%.
- Obtain qualifying score on the "Test and Place" exam for externship placement.
- Successfully complete a clinical externship.
INFORMATION
Room: C5
Office Hours: M-F, 8:00am-4:30pm
Phone: (925) 685-7340, ext. 6730
Email: adultcareertech@mdusd.org
REGISTRATION
CTE Programs Information Session
CTE Admission Reading Assessment
QUICK LINKS
Want More Information About Our
CTE Programs? Fill Out This Quick
Interest Form.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:
Complete both the CTE Programs Information Session and Admission Reading Assessment. Provide a copy of high school diploma or equivalent and health insurance card. Complete Health Verification Form and be able to pass a background check. Additional information provided at information session.
JOB OUTLOOK
In Contra Costa County, employment for Dental Assistants is expected to increase by 10.8% in the next 5 years. The current median wage for Dental Assistants is $24.16 per hour.
(Source: California Employment Development Department).