Dental Assistant

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Program at a Glance

15 Month Associate's Degree
63 Total Credits

10-Week Externship
Integrated into Program

RHS, RDA & ICE
Certification Prep

On Campus
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Degree Overview

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program with a concentration in Dental Assisting is designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and practical skills for roles in dental assisting. The curriculum focuses on preparing students to support dentists in both clinical and administrative capacities, emphasizing patient care, radiographic procedures, and office management.

Dental assistants contribute to the efficiency of dental practices by coordinating care and communication between dentists, patients, and administrative staff. Students in this program will have the opportunity to learn essential skills in areas such as chairside assisting, dental radiography, infection control, and office procedures. Graduates may pursue entry-level roles in dental offices, clinics, or other related settings, depending on individual performance and job market conditions.

Through ECPI’s year-round accelerated schedule, students can earn their AAS degree with a concentration in Dental Assisting in as few as 15 months.

Knowledge and Skills

Graduates should grow in the following areas:

  • Clinical Competencies
    Master chairside assistance, clinical procedures, radiographic techniques, lab tasks, and practice management.
  • Practice Management
    Build expertise in scheduling, billing, and maintaining dental equipment.
  • Dental Knowledge & Ethics
    Gain a strong foundation in dental sciences and demonstrate understanding of ethical standards outlined by the American Dental Assisting Association.

University Benefits

Hands-On Experience

Gain practical skills through a 10-week externship in a real-world dental setting under expert supervision.

Cert Icon Program Template White Certification Preparation

Prepare for certification exams like the Dental Assisting National Examination (DANB) to boost professional credentials and opportunities in the field.

Graduate Faster

Our year-round, accelerated, programs let you earn your degree in just 15 months.

Dental Assisting Curriculum

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) program with a concentration in Dental Assisting

Featured Courses & Overview

Dental Radiology DEN211

Students build on principles and skills in infection control. Students will learn hazards of radiation exposure as well as identification and correction of radiographic pitfalls are emphasized. Students will learn to pronounce, define, and spell key terms.

Dental Anatomy DEN100

Students will learn the human skull, including landmarks of the skull, face and oral cavity, bones of the head, and the temporomandibular joint. The musculature, nerves and vascular circulation of the head and neck will be studied.

Credit Hours

Course Categories

Description

36

Core Curriculum

Courses that provide an educational foundation, building essential skills across diverse subjects.

21

Arts & Sciences

Courses which delve into both creative expression and the scientific world, shaping well-rounded thinkers.

6

Self Integration

These courses set you up for college success and beyond.

63

Total Credit Hours

View Complete Curriculum Information

Institutional Accreditation

ECPI University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, and master’s degrees. ECPI University also offers credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels.

Questions about the accreditation of ECPI University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).

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