Dental Studies Department   

Dental Assisting Education

The Dental Assisting Education program provides theoretical and practical preparation for its program graduates. Graduates of the Dental Assisting Education program may seek immediate employment as qualified dental assistants in hospitals, clinics and dental offices.The total program may be completed within two semesters. A minimum of 336 hours of clinical procedures in affiliated dental clinics and/or private dental offices will be completed during the second semester of study. Students who complete this program will graduate with a certificate for direct employment from Pima Community College and will be eligible to take the national certification examination and state oral radiography licensure examination. The Dental Assisting Faculy has prepared a FAQ to answer more specific questions about this exciting career.

Program & Admissions  Information (back)

Advising Sheet
Courses
Degrees & Certificates
Checksheet
Flowchart
Tipsheet
Health Professions Questions & Answers

Program Mission   (back)

The Dental Assisting Education Mission is consistent with the College in that our program transforms and enriches lives through teaching excellence, community partnerships, lifelong learning and developing the potential of our graduates. We value our students and our community. We are committed to the success of all our students by providing excellence in the teaching/learning process. We are committed to developing confident, successful professionals. We believe in equity, diversity, and access. We are committed to providing a 21st Century learning environment. We hold ourselves accountable for our stated values and goals and the trust the dental community places in us.

Program Goals   (back)

1. Provide a dental assisting program, which meets the educational standards established by Pima Community College, the Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners, and the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation.
2. Develop community partnerships which effectively assist the program in educating our students.
3. Promote and support lifelong learning and career progression.
4. Graduate dental assisting students who are knowledgeable, competent and professional.
5. Prepare students who qualify for and successfully pass the Arizona x-ray certification exams.
6. Incorporate community health activities relative to the oral health needs of society.
7. Enhance student recruitment, retention and program completion.