Palm Beach State College

The Dental Assisting Career Certificate Program (CCP) at Palm Beach State College is an 11-month full-time course designed for individuals seeking to become certified dental assistants. The program begins in the fall term each year and is offered exclusively during the day at the Lake Worth campus.

Program Overview

The Dental Assisting CCP involves 1,230 hours of coursework, which includes Dental Radiography and Expanded Functions Certifications, in accordance with Florida state regulations. Upon completion, graduates are eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exam to become certified dental assistants. The program is accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation (ADA CODA) and approved by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

Course Content

The curriculum includes various courses that cover topics such as:

  • Oral, Head, and Neck Anatomy
  • Dental Radiology and Lab
  • Dental Office Emergencies
  • Introduction to Clinical Procedures and Lab
  • Dental Materials and Lab
  • Expanded Functions and Lab
  • Preventive Dentistry
  • Office Management
  • Clinical Practice and Dental Practicum Labs

Admission Requirements

To enroll in the Dental Assisting CCP, prospective students must:

  • Complete a general application for admission to Palm Beach State College.
  • Provide official high school or GED transcripts and any college or university transcripts.
  • Take the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) if not exempt.
  • Submit a completed Dental Assisting program application by the deadline.

Additionally, while not mandatory, attending a Dental Assisting Program Information Session is encouraged.

Costs and Financial Considerations

Tuition and associated costs for the program can vary. It is recommended to contact the college directly for the most current tuition fees and information on financial aid options.

Expense TypeOff CampusOff Campus with Family
Tuition and Fees (In-State)$3,050$3,050
Tuition and Fees (Out-of-State)$10,830$10,830
Books and Supplies$2,700$2,700
Food and Housing$18,064$4,902
Other Expenses$4,556$4,556
Total (In-State)$28,370$15,208
Total (Out-of-State)$36,150$22,988

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program can find employment in a variety of settings, such as:

  • General and specialty dental practices
  • Public health facilities
  • Hospitals
  • Community healthcare facilities
  • Dental product companies
  • Educational and research institutions

Additionally, graduates may transfer up to 19 college credits towards an Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene degree, providing a pathway for further education and career advancement.

How to Enroll

To begin the enrollment process:

For detailed program information and course descriptions, you can check the official Palm Beach State College catalog.