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.

Recent dental assistant graduates

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 an additional 8 hours of coronal polishing and sealant certification.

At the culmination of 170 hours and after passing exams successfully, you will earn a certificate in dental assisting. This program is designed to be completed in 12 weeks of learning with additional time for your externship.

Program 12-week Breakdown:

Type of Instruction

Hours of Instruction

Lecture - can be done online

32 hours

Lab - done on evenings/weekends

70 hours

Externship - during clinic hours

40 hours

Coronal Polishing / Sealant Certification

8 hours

Certificate granted

TOTAL: 150 hours of instruction

Photo of Dental Assistant StudentWhat 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:

Fill out the Dental Assistant Certification Program Application Form and email your resume to DACertification@uic.edu. One of our faculty will reach out to schedule an interview. If you have any questions, please contact 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.