Dental Assistant Program
The Dental Assistant Program at National Career College (NCC) provides students in Los Angeles with essential training for a career in dental assisting. This nine-month program emphasizes hands-on learning, blending coursework with practical experience in clinical settings to prepare students for entry-level positions in the dental field.
Key Highlights
- Accreditation: Recognized by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), which ensures high educational standards.
- Credentials: Graduates receive a diploma, with additional certifications in Radiation Safety, Infection Control, and Coronal Polishing approved by the Dental Board of California.
- Externship: Includes a clinical externship, providing real-world experience in dental settings.
Class Schedules
NCC offers flexible class options to suit various schedules:
- Day Classes: Held four days a week from Monday to Thursday on campus.
- Night Classes: A hybrid format with on-campus classes on Monday and Tuesday evenings, and online classes on Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
Curriculum Overview
Students cover core aspects of dental assisting, including patient care, dental ethics, and current dental technologies. The curriculum combines classroom instruction, lab work, and clinical experience, giving students a well-rounded education in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Prerequisites
To apply for NCC’s Dental Assistant Program, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED or HiSET)
- Completion of the Scholastic Level Exam (SLE) with a passing score of 12
- Personal interview and campus tour
- $75 non-refundable registration fee
Financial Aid Options
NCC offers several financial aid options for those who qualify:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)
- Federal Direct Loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
- Direct Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS)
- Cal Grants, scholarships, and private loans guidance
For assistance, NCC’s Financial Aid Department is available to help students explore all available financial options.
Career Services
NCC provides job placement assistance through its Career Services Department. Graduates can receive support in:
- Resume preparation
- Job search techniques
- Interview preparation and follow-up
- Career workshops and networking opportunities
While employment is not guaranteed, NCC offers ongoing guidance to help graduates navigate the job market effectively.
Why National Career College?
National Career College offers a structured, hands-on program with flexibility for working adults and a strong support system in financial aid and career services. The curriculum provides foundational skills alongside real-world experience, equipping graduates for entry-level dental assisting roles. One consideration is the program’s total cost, which might be higher than some alternatives, but NCC provides robust financial aid and career support options to help students succeed.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $18,639 (includes tuition, materials, books, uniforms, and fees) |
| Program Duration | 9 months |
| Class Schedules | Day Classes (Mon-Thurs) and Hybrid Evening Classes (Mon-Tues in-person, Wed-Thurs online) |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting, including externship and certifications in Radiation Safety, Infection Control, Coronal Polishing |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED, SLE exam, campus tour and interview, $75 registration fee |
| Online Classes? | Yes, available for evening class options |
| Job Placement? | Career Services support provided (resume help, job search assistance, interview prep) |
| Financial Aid Options | Federal Pell Grants, FSEOG, Federal Direct Loans, Cal Grants, private loan guidance |
| Location | 14355 Roscoe Blvd., Panorama City, CA 91402 |
| Phone | 888-988-2301 |
| Not specified | |
| Website | https://nccusa.edu/programs/dental-assistant-program-los-angeles/ |