INFORMATION SESSIONS

INFORMATION SESSION If you would like more information about this program, including how to register, please email Melissa Gallagher mgallagher1@kish.edu for more information.

Dental Assistant

Dental Assistants assist dentists and dental hygienists with patient care as well as provide administrative support in a dental office.

Career Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in the dental field is expected to grow 25 percent from 2012-2022, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Ongoing research linking oral health and general health will likely continue to increase the demand for preventive dental services. Additional reasons for expansion include the population growth, greater retention of natural teeth by middle-aged and older people, and an increased focus on preventative dental care for younger generations will fuel demand for dental services. The median annual wage for Dental Assistant was $39,560 in May 2019

Class Overview

The lecture portion of the class will be conducted online via D2L.  Class material will be released weekly. Discussion threads will be conducted regularly.  Students will be required to post responses by deadlines.  Open discussion option will be provided.  Exams and quizzes will be conducted online.  Review options will be offered.  Labs/hands-on practice will be completed off campus at a local dental office on various Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 6-9pm.

Due to the requirements of the profession, the following minimum abilities are expected of each student: at least a 10th grade Math and English (speaking and reading) level; psychomotor skills (eye-hand coordination and finger dexterity) and visual acuity (normal or corrected) sufficient for safe and successful practice of Dental Assistant duties. 

Externship Overview

Externships will not be required during the Fall 2020 semester. Externships are coordinated by Kishwaukee College-Community Education. Students are required to provide their own transportation to and from their externship site. Drug testing, criminal background check and health insurance are required for externship placement.

Payment Plan

The cost of the class is $1,200. This cost includes textbooks and access to online learning platform. Federal and State financial aid are not available to offset the cost of the Dental Assistant program. A payment plan is available.

ORIENTATION SESSION

A mandatory Orientation Session will be held on August 25, 2020, 7-8pm via Zoom.  All students who are registered for the Fall 2020 session must attend the Orientation Session.

Ways to Register

Contact Information

For general inquiries or questions, please email Melissa Gallagher at mgallagher1@kish.edu.

Students must be at least 18 years of age to register for the Dental Assistant program.