The San Diego Mesa College Dental Assisting Program offers students both a Certificate of Achievement and an Associate of Science Degree in Dental Assisting. This 10-month program is accredited by the Dental Board of California (DBC) and the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). With a focus on hands-on training and essential certifications, this program prepares students to take the California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) and Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exams.
Program Highlights
Flexible Credentials
Students can choose between the Certificate of Achievement (37 units) or an Associate of Science Degree by completing additional general education requirements. These credentials provide pathways into dental assisting with specialized certifications in radiography, infection control, and more.
In-Depth Coursework
The curriculum includes courses in dental materials, radiography, clinical business management, and dental specialties. Courses are held in lab-style classrooms, with training on industry-standard equipment. Students learn to perform coronal polishing, take X-rays, and manage patient records.
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Prerequisites
To apply, students must complete two prerequisite courses:
- DENA 050 – Dental Communications
- DENA 056 – Basic Dental Science
Both courses must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher within five years before applying.
Certifications and Exams
Graduates are eligible to sit for:
- California RDA Exam (state license)
- CDA National Exam
- Upon completing the program, students receive certifications in areas like infection control, coronal polishing, and radiography, which are essential for dental assisting roles in California.
Program Costs
San Diego Mesa College’s dental assisting program is highly affordable. The Certificate of Achievement costs approximately $1,702, while the Associate of Science Degree costs $2,760. Students can explore additional financial aid options, including the San Diego Promise Program, which offers two years of free tuition to eligible students.
Career Support and Success Rates
Mesa College offers career services, including access to an advisory committee and support for job placements. The program boasts a 100% pass rate on the California RDA exam in recent years, indicating strong preparation and career readiness among graduates.
Reasons to Consider This School
San Diego Mesa College’s Dental Assisting Program is both affordable and reputable, with strong preparation for state and national exams. The program’s affordability and high pass rate make it an excellent choice, though admission is competitive and requires timely completion of prerequisites. Financial aid, flexible degree options, and career support further enhance the value of this program.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Certificate: $1,702 Associate Degree: $2,760 |
| Program Duration | Approximately 10 months |
| Class Schedules | Mostly daytime; some late afternoon classes from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting Certificate of Achievement, Associate of Science in Dental Assisting, Dental Office Administration Certificate |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED; completion of DENA 050 and DENA 056 prerequisites with a “C” or higher |
| Online Classes? | Some classes offered partially online; inquire for details |
| Job Placement? | Career support available; access to advisory committee and job placement resources |
| Financial Aid Options | Many options: San Diego Promise Program, scholarships, and other financial aid |
| Location | 7250 Mesa College Drive, San Diego, CA 92111 |
| Phone | (619) 388-5884 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.sdmesa.edu/academics/v2/programs/dental-assisting/ |
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