The Dental Assisting Program at YTI Career Institute in York, PA, is a 10-month hybrid program designed to provide students with the foundational skills needed to enter various dental settings, including general dentistry, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, and more. This program combines online learning with hands-on lab experience and culminates in a 335-hour externship in a dental facility.
Program Highlights
- Hybrid Learning Format: Online lectures are paired with in-person labs, allowing flexibility while ensuring practical experience.
- Certification Preparation: Students are prepared for the Radiation Health and Safety and Infection Control exams through DANB.
- Externship Opportunity: A 335-hour externship provides real-world experience in dental practices.
About YTI Career Institute
YTI Career Institute has been an established provider of vocational training since 1967. With a strong focus on practical skills, YTI’s Dental Assisting program prepares students for entry-level roles in dental offices by integrating online coursework with on-campus lab sessions. Located in York, PA, the program’s flexibility accommodates students seeking a career change or balancing other commitments.
Program Structure
This 10-month program is delivered through a hybrid format. Students are required to complete approximately 25-30 hours per week, including online classes, reading, assignments, and in-person labs held at YTI’s campus. Labs take place 2-3 times a week in the evening, providing a flexible structure for those who may work during the day.
Coursework and Skills Training
The curriculum covers essential topics in dental assisting, including:
- Chairside Assisting: Training in patient preparation and assisting with dental procedures.
- Radiology and Infection Control: Preparation for the Radiation Health and Safety and Infection Control certification exams.
- Front Office Skills: Includes patient scheduling and chart management.
- Sterilization and Lab Work: Focus on equipment sterilization and lab-based skills.
Students gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment in YTI’s labs, preparing them to work confidently in real dental environments.
Externship
In the final term, students complete a 335-hour externship at a dental practice. This externship provides invaluable on-the-job training and insight into daily operations within dental offices. While YTI assists with externship placement, it is essential for students to meet all placement requirements, such as immunizations and background checks, as mandated by specific externship sites.
Prerequisites
- High School Diploma or GED
- Immunizations and Background Checks (depending on externship requirements)
Financial Aid and Admissions
YTI offers financial aid options for those who qualify, including federal and private loans, scholarships, and grants. Their admissions team provides support throughout the application process, including financial aid guidance, to help students understand the costs and available funding options.
Career Support
YTI’s Career Services department assists students with job search preparation, including resume writing, interview practice, and networking opportunities. While employment is not guaranteed, YTI strives to connect graduates with potential employers through job placement assistance.
Why YTI Career Institute?
The YTI Career Institute Dental Assisting program provides a structured, practical path to becoming a dental assistant. Its hybrid format allows students to balance online learning with hands-on lab experience and culminates in an externship for real-world application. However, students should be prepared for the 10-month commitment and ensure they meet externship requirements.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost | Not specified |
| Program Duration | 10 months |
| Class Schedules | Evening classes, 2-3 lab sessions per week |
| Classes Offered | Dental Assisting (chairside assisting, radiology, infection control, front office skills) |
| Admission Requirements | High School Diploma or GED |
| Online Classes? | Yes (lecture portion is online) |
| Job Placement? | Assistance provided through Career Services |
| Financial Aid Options | Yes, for those who qualify |
| Location | 1405 Williams Rd, York, PA 17402 |
| Phone | (717) 757-1100 |
| Website | https://yti.edu/programs/dental-assisting |
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