Dental Assistant Certification Program
Dental assisting is a rewarding career that can open doors for a fulfilling healthcare career. With quick training, becoming a dental assistant sets you up in a career field that is constantly growing and provides many opportunities for advancement.
At Mile Square Health Center, our dental assisting certificate program is designed to train students to work in public health settings alongside other health disciplines that are all located within our clinics. Our program will prepare you to assist in cases including medically complex care, pediatric services, oral surgery, and prosthetic services. Our training takes place in our modern clinics, allowing you to learn on the most up-to-date technology, including digital imaging and electronic records.
Who can apply?
Anyone interested in a healthcare career who has also obtained a high school diploma or GED can apply for our dental assisting certification program.
How Long is the Dental Assistant Certificate Program?
Our program consists of 32 hours of lecture, 70 hours of lab and hands-on training, 40 hours of externship, and 20 hours of clinic rotations.
At the culmination of 162 hours and after passing exams successfully, you will earn a certificate in dental assisting. This program is designed to be completed in 14 weeks of learning with additional time for your externship.
Hours of Instruction |
Type of Instruction |
---|---|
32 hours |
Lecture- once a week in-person |
70 hours |
Lab- in clinic on evenings/weekends |
20 hours |
Clinic rotations during clinic hours |
40 hours |
Externship-during clinic hours |
162 Hours TOTAL instruction |
Certificate granted |
What to Expect During the Dental Assistant Certification Program
Courses will be taught by professionally certified staff who will teach lectures, administer exams, and oversee your clinical rotations. Classes will be held once a week at our Auburn Gresham location.
How to Apply:
The application for Fall 2024 has closed. Please check back for the Winter 2025 program online application.
If you have any questions, please email DACertification@uic.edu.
Tuition costs:
Tuition assistance for the program has been generously provided by the Delta Dental Foundation of Illinois and Illinois Children's Healthcare Foundation. Students will be responsible for a $300 fee for their textbooks and uniforms.