San Diego Dental Careers (SDDC) offers a fast-paced, hands-on dental assistant training program in a real dental practice setting. The program, located within Hust Dental Care, provides students with both classroom and on-the-job training. This 11-week program is supplemented by 15 months of paid work experience, making it an appealing option for those looking to enter the field quickly and affordably.
Program Structure
The SDDC program is designed to give students practical, job-focused training in a dental practice. Students can attend classes either on Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or in the evenings on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. In addition to classroom learning, students complete 4 hours of on-the-job training weekly. This dual approach ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
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Certification and Training
Upon completion, graduates receive a certificate in dental assisting, an x-ray license, and CPR certification. This meets the requirements to start work as a dental assistant. For those considering an RDA (Registered Dental Assistant) certification, the program sets a strong foundation, as graduates can work towards the 15-month experience requirement to qualify for the RDA exam.
Practical Experience and Earnings
One major advantage of this program is the opportunity for students to earn money during training. The on-the-job training is paid, providing valuable work experience and helping students cover some of their educational expenses. Graduates typically find job placements in dental offices, with many securing employment even before the program ends.
Flexible Financing
The total program cost is $4,305, with financing options that allow students to make payments as low as $110 per month. For those needing additional assistance, a loan application process is available online. SDDC also offers a military discount, making it an accessible choice for a range of financial situations.
Program Schedule Options
SDDC offers flexibility in scheduling. Students can choose between a weekend option (Saturdays) or an evening option (Tuesdays and Thursdays), both running for 11 weeks. Each option includes opportunities for hands-on, paid work experience, adding practical value to the classroom instruction.
Prerequisites
To enroll in this program, students must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide a high school diploma or GED equivalent
Reasons to Consider This School
SDDC’s program is an attractive choice for those seeking a fast, affordable, and hands-on approach to becoming a dental assistant. The program’s real-world training environment and paid on-the-job experience are significant benefits. However, it does not directly prepare students for the RDA exam upon graduation; additional experience or certification courses may be required for those interested in pursuing RDA status.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | $4,305 |
| Program Duration | 11 weeks + 15 months paid training |
| Class Schedules | Saturdays 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. or Evenings Tues & Thurs 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting Certificate, X-Ray License, CPR Certification |
| Admission Requirements | 18+ years, High school diploma or GED |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | Paid on-the-job training available; no guaranteed job placement |
| Financial Aid Options | Payment plans available; as low as $110 per month, military discount available |
| Location | 4690 Genesee Ave, San Diego, CA 92117 |
| Phone | (858) 352-0077 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.dentalcareersinsandiego.com/ |
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