Pima Medical Institute offers a 9-month Dental Assistant Certificate program designed to equip students with the technical and interpersonal skills needed to assist dentists and provide patient care. The program is available at two San Diego-area campuses, in Chula Vista and San Marcos, with options for hybrid learning for added flexibility.
Program Highlights
Hands-On Training
The Dental Assistant program at Pima Medical combines hands-on lab training with classroom learning, preparing students for real-world dental environments. Students learn to assist during procedures, take X-rays, and maintain sterilization standards, gaining experience with the same equipment found in dental practices.
Hybrid Learning Options
Students can choose a hybrid learning format, allowing a mix of on-campus labs and online classes. This flexibility is ideal for those needing a schedule that balances work or family responsibilities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The program includes courses in:
- Dental Radiography
- Chairside Assisting
- Office Administration
- Microbiology and Dental Pharmacology
These subjects aim to develop a well-rounded skill set for supporting dentists in clinical and administrative tasks.
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Prerequisites
To enroll, applicants must:
- Provide a high school diploma or GED
- Pass an entrance exam (may be waived in certain cases)
- Participate in an interview with admissions
Applicants under legal age need parental or guardian approval.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue various entry-level roles, including:
- Dental Assistant
- Orthodontic Assistant
- Oral Surgery Assistant
Potential work settings include private dental practices, hospital clinics, and specialty dental clinics. The program also opens doors to related career paths in dental product sales and insurance claims processing.
Externship Experience
The program includes a 240-hour externship, allowing students to gain practical experience in a dental office. Externships offer valuable networking opportunities and real-life training, giving students a competitive edge when entering the job market.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Pima Medical Institute provides financial aid options, including scholarships like:
- Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarship (for need-based financial assistance)
- Sallie Mae Scholarship Resources (scholarship search tool)
These financial aid options aim to reduce costs for students who qualify, making the program more accessible.
Additional Learning Paths
For students interested in continuing their education, Pima Medical offers:
- Dental Hygiene Associate Degree
- Online Health Care Administration Associate Degree
These options provide pathways for career advancement in dental and healthcare administration fields.
Reasons to Consider This School
Pima Medical Institute’s Dental Assistant program offers a short completion time of 9 months, hands-on lab training, and flexible hybrid learning. With two convenient San Diego locations, it’s accessible for local students, though costs vary by program and scholarships are competitive. The externship component provides practical experience but requires additional commitment.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Program Duration | Approximately 9 months |
| Class Schedules | Contact campus for specific details; day and evening classes may be available. |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting Certificate Program |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED, entrance exam, interview; parental consent if under legal age. |
| Online Classes? | Yes, hybrid option available combining online and on-campus classes. |
| Job Placement? | Career services and externship assistance available for job placement support. |
| Financial Aid Options | Available; includes loans, grants, and scholarships such as the Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Scholarship. |
| Location | 780 Bay Blvd #101, Chula Vista, CA 91910; 111 Campus Way, San Marcos, CA 92078 |
| Phone | (800) 477-7462 |
| Website | https://pmi.edu/on-campus-programs/certificate/dental-assistant/ |
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