Associate in Science Degree in Dental Assisting

Foothill College

The Foothill College Dental Assisting Program is an intensive 10-month sequence of instruction. Graduates will be qualified to take the Registered Dental Assisting (RDA) examination administered by the Dental Board of California. Graduates are also eligible to take the Certified Dental Assisting (CDA) examination administered by the Dental Assisting National Board. The program offers a combination of lecture, laboratory, and clinical courses in general and specialty dental practices, as well as participation in externships at a local dental school, dental offices, and/or clinics. Students will also be certified in infection control, dental practice act, coronal polishing, dental x-ray, and pit and fissure sealants as part of the program curriculum. The Dental Assisting Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation status of "approval without reporting requirements." Graduates of the program are in demand and have many different types of job opportunities available to them.