Dental Assistant Program
Pasadena City College’s Dental Assisting program offers a well-rounded education for those looking to enter the dental healthcare field. This one-year, full-time program provides a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and clinical externships, preparing students for entry-level dental assisting positions. Graduates will be eligible to take both the California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) and Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams.
Program Structure and Curriculum
The PCC program runs for two semesters and includes an intersession, with additional part-time pathways available (13 or 24 months). Course topics cover essential areas such as:
- Infection Control – Techniques and procedures to maintain a sterile dental environment.
- Oral Radiology – Safe x-ray practices and patient handling.
- Chairside Assisting – Supporting dentists with patient procedures and materials handling.
- Dental Office Administration – Administrative skills including scheduling, records management, and patient interactions.
An externship component is built into the curriculum, allowing students to gain real-world experience in a dental practice. This combination of theoretical and hands-on learning helps students develop the skills necessary to support dentists and interact with patients effectively.
Certificates and Licenses
Upon completing the program, students earn a Certificate of Achievement in Dental Assisting. Additionally, they receive several Occupational Skills Certificates:
- Infection Control
- Dental Practice Act
- Oral Radiology
- Coronal Polishing
- Pit and Fissure Sealants
- Ultrasonic Scaling for Orthodontic Cement Removal
Students also have the option to pursue an Orthodontic Assistant Permit (OAP) by taking additional courses.
Cost and Financial Details
The estimated total cost of the program is $3,054, which includes tuition, uniforms, and required equipment. The cost breakdown is as follows:
- Tuition: $1,679
- Uniforms and Supplies: Approximately $1,300
- Additional Fees: Includes items such as ADA membership and CPR certification.
Financial aid options are available to qualified students, making this program accessible for many individuals interested in the dental assisting field.
Admissions and Application Process
PCC has a straightforward admission process with no prerequisites required:
- Educational Requirement: High school diploma or equivalent with a 2.0 GPA.
- Application Periods: April 30 – June 30 for fall enrollment; October 1 – December 1 for spring.
Admission is competitive, with a random selection process used if applicants exceed available spaces.
Accreditation and Standards
PCC’s Dental Assisting program is fully accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and approved by the Dental Board of California. This accreditation signifies that PCC meets high standards of education and training in dental assisting.
Skills and Abilities Needed for Success
Success in this program requires a mix of technical and interpersonal skills. Ideal candidates are detail-oriented, comfortable with hands-on tasks, and skilled at communicating with patients and colleagues. Basic computer literacy and organizational skills are also essential.
Why Choose Pasadena City College?
PCC’s Dental Assisting program offers a practical and affordable route into a growing healthcare field. With its strong clinical component, accreditation, and eligibility for state and national certification exams, it provides excellent value. However, students should be prepared for the program’s full-time schedule and additional out-of-pocket expenses for required supplies.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $3,054 (includes tuition, uniforms, and supplies) |
| Program Duration | 12 months (full-time); 10 months with intersession; part-time options available |
| Class Schedules | Full-time (two semesters + intersession); part-time options (13 and 24 months) |
| Classes Offered | Infection Control, Oral Radiology, Chairside Assisting, Office Administration, Clinical Externship, Orthodontic Assistant (optional) |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or equivalent with a 2.0 GPA; application windows in April-June (fall) and Oct-Dec (spring) |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | Not specified |
| Financial Aid Options | Available for qualified students |
| Location | 1570 E. Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91106 |
| Phone | (626) 585-3308 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | Pasadena City College Dental Assisting Program |