Dental Assisting Program
Certificate of Achievement
Credential: Registered Dental Assistant
The Dental Assisting Program is designed to prepare students for entry level positions in one of the fastest growing health care positions - Dental Assisting. The dental assisting program will cover key areas and topics exposing the student to both classroom and laboratory hands-on instruction. After successfully completing the course students will be ready to take the State of Texas Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exams.
Dental Assistants work under the direction of other health care professionals, usually in dental offices, hospitals, health clinics and other health care settings. Under direct supervision, the dental assistants are responsible for assisting dentists and dental hygienists with patient care as well as provide certain administrative support to the office.
Registration Procedures
Applications are available at the Vernon College Continuing Education office or online at www.vernoncollege.edu/fast-track. Students must complete application packets and turn in all materials associated with the application. The deadline for admission will be stated in the packet each year. Scholarships are available through the Continuing Education office for students that qualify. An interview process will follow for all qualified applicants. Each year the program will accept 16 students.
Program Requirements
- Must be 18 years of age with a GED or high school diploma
- Must have visual acuity with/without corrective lenses
- Must have manual dexterity to use sterile techniques, prepare and transfer dental materials, and transfer instruments
- Must be computer literate and communicate effectively in verbal and written form.
- Must be able to stand for prolonged periods of time and maneuver in limited spaces.
- Must have current CPR certification for healthcare providers
- No criminal convictions or probation
- Must have current vaccinations (MMR,TD, Varicella, Hepatitis B), and physical and dental examinations
- Must take reading, writing and math portions of accuplacer
- Must sign all forms regarding confidentiality and general releases