Program Information
-
Location: Downtown Milwaukee Campus
- Pathway: Healthcare
- Program Code: 30-508-2
- Offering: In-class
- Degree Type: Bilingual, Technical Diploma
- Start Dates: August/January
About the Dental Assistant Diploma
Description
Bilingual (Spanish) program also is offered; the bilingual program start date is August only.
This program prepares students to perform a variety of patient care responsibilities while under the direction and supervision of a dentist during the examination and treatment of patients. Coursework includes academic and clinical competencies, and students will have clinical experience in a dental practice. Students have the option of completing the program in one or two semesters.
Employment opportunities for trained dental assistants are plentiful in private offices, hospitals and clinic settings.
This program features exploratory courses that count toward a credential. Contact an MATC advisor for information.
Additional program details: Students will practice these skills during their clinical experience in a dental practice. Attributes that will contribute to success include a neat and well-groomed appearance, conscientious work habits and good interpersonal skills.
Related Programs
Dental Hygiene
Help patients maintain their oral health as a dental hygienist. Working under a dentist’s supervision, dental hygienists perform such duties as teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, X-ray processing and dental health counseling. You will gain clinical experience in MATC’s dental hygiene clinic and at external sites. Graduates are eligible to complete the National Board of Dental Hygiene examination, and state or regional practical examinations.
Dental Assistant
Attain the skills required to assist with dental procedures under the supervision of a dentist. You will learn a variety of patient care techniques that are performed under the supervision of the dentist during examination and treatment of patients.
Detailed Program Information
2020-21 Curriculum
| Semester | Course | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| (1) | DENAST-302 | Dental Chairside | 5 |
| (1) | DENAST-304 | Dental and General Anatomy | 2 |
| (1) | DENAST-305 | Applied Dental Radiography (or) DENHYG-103 Dental Radiography |
2 |
| (1) | DENAST-306 | Dental Assistant – Clinical | 3 |
| (1) | DENAST-307 | Dental Assistant Professionalism | 1 |
| (1) | DENHYG-101 | Dental Health Safety | 1 |
| (1) | DENHYG-113 | Dental Materials | 2 |
|
TOTAL CREDITS |
16 |
( ) Semester order for full-time students.
Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.
Current MATC students should consult their Academic Program Plan for specific curriculum requirements.
To see course descriptions, class times, locations or to register online:
Students already enrolled in an MATC program can visit Self Service Student Planning.
All others can access this information through INFOnline.
2020-2021 Program Card
View/print the program card: front (jpg) | back (jpg)
Important Dates
Deadlines and important dates can be found on:
Cost & Aid Deadlines
Also, you can find dates and deadlines on the MATC Calendar
Program Outcomes
- Perform a variety of entry-level supportive dental procedures
- Manage infection and hazard control
- Produce diagnostic radiographs
- Perform basic dental laboratory procedures
- Demonstrate professional behaviors, ethics and appearance
Career Outlook
Employment opportunities for trained dental assistants are available in private offices, hospitals and clinic settings. The demand for dental services continues to increase. As dentists’ workloads increase, they are expected to hire more assistants to perform routine tasks.
For more information, visit the Dental Assisting National Board, www.danb.org or the American Dental Assistants Association, www.adaausa.org.
Possible Careers
Certified Dental Assistant
Lead Dental Assistant
Sterilization Assistant
Patient Care Representative
Admission Requirements
This program admits students through a petition selection process.
Learn more about the petition process
One year of high school-level biology or chemistry is suggested for this program.
Scholarships
Learn about scholarship opportunities here.
Learn about Scholarships available for this program here: https://matc.academicworks.com
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QUESTIONS?
Healthcare Academic & Career Pathway
262-238-2281, healthpathway@matc.edu
Downtown Milwaukee Campus, H Building, Room H116
Mequon Campus, Room A108-110
Oak Creek Campus, Room A121
West Allis Campus, Room 103