The Dental Assistant Program at Bucks County Community College provides foundational skills for entry-level dental assisting roles. This 100-hour course is offered at no cost for students who qualify through PA CareerLink funding, with scholarships also available. The program combines pre-clinical training and hands-on skills essential for a dental practice environment.
Program Highlights
- Hybrid and Flexible Learning: Evening and hybrid classes are available, with some sessions held online via Zoom and others on campus.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for the DANB Radiology Health and Safety Exam (RHS), a requirement in Pennsylvania for those conducting radiology in dental offices.
- Specialized Program for English Language Learners (ELL): Includes language support tailored for ELL students pursuing dental assisting careers.
About Bucks County Community College
Located at the Newtown Campus, Bucks County Community College offers flexible healthcare programs, including dental assisting. This program supports students through hybrid learning formats and prepares them for certification, providing a cost-effective entry into the dental field for eligible students.
Program Structure
The Dental Assistant Program runs in the evenings with a mix of online and in-person classes, making it accessible for students with busy schedules. The 100-hour curriculum is designed to cover key administrative and clinical skills and includes preparation for the DANB RHS certification.
Coursework and Skills Training
Key areas of study in this program include:
- Dental Office Administration: Covers history, legal aspects, and policies of dentistry.
- Oral Anatomy and Operatory Skills: Training in understanding oral structures, dental hand-pieces, and patient positioning.
- Radiology and Safety: Preparation for the RHS certification, focusing on x-ray safety and patient handling.
- Sterilization and Infection Control: Skills in sterilization and patient safety aligned with healthcare standards.
This curriculum provides a well-rounded foundation for entry-level dental assisting work.
Prerequisites
- Funding Eligibility through PA CareerLink
- Intermediate English for ELL Program
Certifications
The program prepares students for the DANB Radiology Health and Safety Exam, an essential credential for dental assistants working with radiology in Pennsylvania. This exam costs $250, and while it’s not included in the program’s tuition, students are encouraged to take it for improved job prospects.
Career Pathways
Graduates of the Bucks County Community College program are well-prepared for entry-level dental assisting roles. Skills acquired in office administration, radiology, and infection control make them competitive in the dental field.
Why Bucks County Community College?
The Bucks County Community College Dental Assistant Program offers flexibility through hybrid courses, financial accessibility for those who qualify, and focused certification preparation. However, the RHS exam fee is separate, so students should plan for this cost. The program’s specialized track for ELL students is a standout feature, making it a strong choice for non-native English speakers.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free for those who qualify through PA CareerLink; otherwise $2,300 |
| Program Duration | 100 hours |
| Class Schedules | Evening classes, hybrid format (online and in-person) |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting (includes radiology, infection control, oral anatomy, patient care) |
| Admission Requirements | Eligibility for funding or self-pay |
| Online Classes? | Yes, partially (hybrid format) |
| Job Placement? | No formal job placement; career counseling and job placement assistance available |
| Financial Aid Options | Yes, PA CareerLink funding and scholarships for eligible students |
| Location | Newtown Campus: 275 Swamp Road, Newtown, PA 18940 |
| Phone | (215) 504-8581 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.bucks.edu/healthcare/dental-asst/ |
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