Skip to content
Home » Northwestern College Dental Assistant Certificate Program

Northwestern College Dental Assistant Certificate Program

Northwestern College, located in Oak Lawn, Illinois, offers a comprehensive Dental Assistant Certificate Program. This program is tailored for individuals eager to engage in the growing field of dentistry, providing essential training for a vital role in healthcare.

Program Overview and Curriculum

The 48-credit program at Northwestern College is designed to be completed within one year. It combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on training through an externship. The curriculum is crafted to develop skills required in dental assisting, including patient care, administrative tasks, and support in dental treatments. Key areas of study include dental sciences, radiography, laboratory procedures, and chairside assisting. The program also focuses on developing competencies in health and safety, recordkeeping, and professional development.

Search Dental Assistant Programs

Get information on Dental Assistant programs by entering your zip code and request enrollment information.

Sponsored Listings

Certification and Externship

Graduates are eligible to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification exam by American Medical Technologists (AMT), a critical qualification for dental assistants. The program includes an externship, offering students a chance to apply their skills in a real-world setting, which is integral for hands-on learning and professional growth.

Employment Outlook

The dental assisting field is experiencing robust growth, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting an 8% increase in employment opportunities through 2031. This growth indicates a promising career path for graduates, with numerous job openings expected annually.

Program Goals and Outcomes

Upon completion, students are expected to be proficient in various dental assisting tasks, including applying infection control guidelines, assisting in medical emergencies, and effectively communicating with patients and healthcare teams. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only skilled but also demonstrate professional ethics and conduct.

Accreditations and Student Support

Northwestern College holds accreditation (on probation) from the Higher Learning Commission and offers support for veterans’ training. The college provides financial aid assistance and job search support, highlighting its commitment to student success.

Flexible Learning Environment

With a blend of online and in-person classes, Northwestern College accommodates students seeking to balance educational goals with other commitments. The college encourages prospective students to explore this career path, offering a nurturing and supportive educational environment.

Program InformationDetails
CostNo
Program Duration1 year (48-credit program)
Class SchedulesMix of online and in-person
PrerequisitesNone listed
Location9400 S Cicero Ave., Oak Lawn, IL 60453
Phone(708) 237-5000
Email[email protected]
Websitenc.edu/programs/certificates/dental-assisting
Job PlacementOffers job search assistance
Online Classes?Yes (part of the program is online)
Free Classes?No

Northwestern College’s Dental Assistant Certificate Program is a robust and comprehensive pathway for those aiming to enter the dental assisting field. The program’s blend of academic learning, practical training, and focus on professional development make it a valuable choice for prospective dental assistants.