Program Information
-
Location: Downtown Milwaukee Campus
- Pathway: Healthcare
- Program Code: 30-508-2
- Offering: In-Person
- Degree Type: Technical Diploma, Bilingual
- 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.
This program admits students via a waiting list process.
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.
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Career Outlook
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 Technician
Develop the knowledge and skills necessary to manufacture dental prostheses, including fixed restorations and complete dentures. The curriculum integrates theoretical study with hands-on dental lab applications. Students train in MATC’s fully equipped dental laboratory, gaining practical experience to prepare for careers in the dental industry.
Detailed Program Information
2025-26 Curriculum
| Course | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DENAST-302 | Dental Chairside | 5 |
| DENAST-304 | Dental and General Anatomy | 2 |
| DENAST-305 | Applied Dental Radiography (or) DENHYG-103 Dental Radiography |
2 |
| DENAST-306 | Dental Assistant – Clinical | 3 |
| DENAST-307 | Dental Assistant Professionalism | 1 |
| DENHYG-101 | Dental Health Safety | 1 |
| DENHYG-113 | Dental Materials | 2 |
|
TOTAL CREDITS |
16 |
Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.
Current MATC students should consult their Academic Program Plan for specific curriculum requirements.
Search for available classes now (link) to see course descriptions, class times and locations.
Already a student? You can visit Self-Service (link) and choose Student Planning to register for classes.
2025-2026 Program Flyer
2024-2025 Spanish Program Flyer
Links & Resources
Dental Assistant - Course Map (pdf)
Dental Assistant Bilingual - Course Map (pdf)
Important Dates
- No prerequisite courses
- Fall start: Review Window in February
- Spring start: Review Window in September
The Dental Assistant Bilingual (Spanish) program is an open entry program; it does not require petitioning - Students can enroll in open entry programs when enrollment begins each semester.
- No prerequisite courses
- Fall start: Registration for classes opens in April
(Bilingual progam only admits students one time a year)
Deadlines and important dates can be found on:
Cost & Aid Deadlines
Also, you can find dates and deadlines on the MATC Events Calendar
Program Outcomes
- Perform a variety of entry-level supportive dental procedures
- Manage infection and hazard control
- Produce diagnostic images
- Perform basic dental laboratory procedures
- Demonstrate professional behaviors, ethics and appearance
Admission Requirements
Waiting List
This program admits students via a waiting list process. Students must complete all academic preparedness requirements before being placed into core program courses when seats are available.
- Program capacity is 48 students total: 24 in Spring and 24 in Fall.
- Currently, no waiting time, but that is subject to change.
Academic Preparedness Requirements
Scholarships
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QUESTIONS?
Healthcare Academic & Career Pathway
414-297-6263
262-238-2281
healthpathway@matc.edu