The UEI College Dental Assistant Program is a 10-month program offering a blend of classroom, online, and hands-on training at two convenient San Diego locations: Chula Vista and Oceanside. The program prepares students for a career in dental assisting with a curriculum covering clinical and administrative skills, and includes a 170-hour externship to provide real-world experience in a dental setting.
Program Highlights
Hands-On and Hybrid Learning
UEI’s Dental Assistant Program includes both online lectures and on-campus lab training. This hybrid format allows students flexibility while providing practical experience in a lab environment that replicates real dental offices. The program concludes with a 170-hour externship, which gives students on-the-job training in a local clinic, building confidence and preparing them for an entry-level role.
Skills and Knowledge Gained
Throughout the program, students learn essential skills, including:
- Dental Radiography: Techniques in taking and developing X-rays.
- Chairside Assisting: Assisting dentists during patient procedures.
- Dental Materials: Preparing materials for restorations and impressions.
- Preventative Dentistry: Educating patients on oral hygiene and performing routine procedures.
With these skills, graduates are well-prepared for both clinical and administrative roles in dental settings.
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Prerequisites
To enroll, applicants need:
- High school diploma or GED
- Admissions interview
For detailed requirements or questions, prospective students are encouraged to contact UEI’s admissions team.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the program may qualify for a range of positions, such as:
- Dental Assistant
- Certified Registered Dental Assistant
- Orthodontic Assistant
- Surgical Dental Assistant
UEI’s training prepares students for roles in dental practices, hospitals, and specialty clinics, allowing for career versatility.
Externship Experience
The program includes a 170-hour externship where students gain practical experience in a professional dental setting. This component provides real-world exposure, helping students apply their classroom knowledge in hands-on scenarios, assisting with procedures, and supporting patient care.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
UEI offers financial aid to qualifying students, which may include grants, loans, and scholarships. Additional aid is available for military personnel and their dependents. Prospective students are encouraged to discuss options with UEI’s financial aid advisors.
Course List
The Dental Assistant program at UEI includes courses in:
- Dental Science/Medical Emergencies
- Chairside Assisting
- Radiography
- Preventative Dentistry
- Administrative Skills
Each course is designed to build skills essential for dental assisting, blending technical knowledge with practical application.
Reasons to Consider This School
UEI College’s Dental Assistant program offers a fast-track path to becoming a dental assistant, with flexible hybrid learning and hands-on lab sessions. With two San Diego-area campuses and a strong externship component, students gain valuable practical experience. Though it provides essential skills, potential students should consider costs, as tuition varies, and explore financial aid options to fit their budget.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified; financial aid and scholarships available for those who qualify. |
| Program Duration | Approximately 10 months |
| Class Schedules | Contact campus for specific details; hybrid format with both online and on-campus sessions available. |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assistant Certificate Program |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED, admissions interview. |
| Online Classes? | Yes, hybrid option combining online learning with on-campus labs. |
| Job Placement? | Career services and externship assistance available for job placement support. |
| Financial Aid Options | Available; includes grants, loans, scholarships, and support for military personnel and their dependents. |
| Location | Chula Vista Campus: 1261 3rd Ave, Suite A, Chula Vista, CA 91911; Oceanside Campus: 2027 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92058 |
| Phone | Chula Vista: (619) 739-4643; Oceanside: (760) 670-4842 |
| Website | https://www.uei.edu/trade-school-programs/dental-assistant/ |
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