Northwest Suburban College (NWSC), located in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, offers a Dental Assistant Program designed to equip students with the essential skills for a career in dental assisting. This program is structured to be completed in a relatively short duration of 32 weeks, including an 8-week hands-on externship.
Program Features and Curriculum
The Dental Assistant Certificate program at NWSC is tailored for individuals passionate about dental health and detail-oriented teamwork. It covers a range of topics, including administrative procedures, dental sciences, dental radiography, laboratory procedures, operative dentistry, and orthodontics. This comprehensive curriculum ensures students are well-prepared for the various aspects of dental assisting.
Clinical Experience and Job Prospects
A significant component of the program is the real-world experience gained through an 8-week externship, where students work 20 hours per week. This externship allows students to apply classroom and lab-acquired skills in actual dental settings, often creating opportunities for employment. Dental Assistants are in demand in Illinois and can work in diverse healthcare settings, performing a variety of duties under the supervision of a dentist.
Schedule and Enrollment
The program consists of 560 hours of classroom learning and 160 hours of clinical externship. Classes are offered during the day from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, with admissions open every month and acceptance notifications within three days of application.
Certification and Career Path
Upon completion, graduates earn a Dental Assistant Program Certificate and are eligible to sit for dental assistant certification exams. While Illinois does not require a basic dental assistant certification for employment, NWSC prepares students for entry-level and advanced function certification exams, enhancing employability.
Cost and Financial Aid
The tuition for the program is $11,034, with additional fees totaling $550, bringing the total cost to $11,584. NWSC offers institutional grants, loans, and payment plans for eligible students, making financial assistance accessible to those who qualify.
| Program Information | Details |
| Cost | $11,584 (including additional fees) |
| Program Duration | 32 weeks total (24 weeks didactic, 8 weeks externship) |
| Class Schedules | Monday – Thursday, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. |
| Prerequisites | Contact the program to learn more |
| Location | 5999 S. New Wilke Rd. Bldg. #500, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008 |
| Phone | (847) 925-7224 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | nwsc.edu/programs/dental-assistant |
| Job Placement | No |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Free Classes? | No |
NWSC’s Dental Assistant Program offers a well-rounded education with a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Its structured curriculum, hands-on externship, and preparation for certification make it a solid choice for those aspiring to enter the dental assisting field.