New Jersey City University

The Clinical Dental Assistant course offered by New Jersey City University (NJCU) is a 12-month online program designed for individuals who aspire to begin a career in dental assisting. This program covers foundational and advanced topics, preparing students for certification and equipping them with skills to thrive in dental practices.

• Flexible Online Format. NJCU’s online structure allows students to complete the program at their own pace over 12 months. This flexibility makes it ideal for working professionals or those with other commitments.
• Comprehensive Curriculum. The course includes detailed modules on anatomy, infection control, patient care, and clinical procedures. Students also learn about managing computerized dental records using Dentrix Practice Management Software, a valuable skill for modern dental practices.
• Affordable Tuition. Priced at $2,495, the program includes textbooks, instructional materials, and optional software tutorials, offering excellent value for students pursuing a dental career.

This program provides in-depth training in various areas essential for dental assisting:

• Dental Sciences and Anatomy: Students learn about dental anatomy, oral pathology, and the structure of primary and permanent teeth.
• Infection Control and Safety: Modules focus on OSHA standards, hazardous materials, and protocols to prevent disease transmission in clinical settings.
• Patient Care: The course emphasizes effective communication, patient preparation, and chairside assistance during dental procedures.
• Specialty Procedures: Training includes pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, and cosmetic dentistry.
• Business and Management Skills: Students are introduced to administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining records, and interacting with insurance systems.

Upon completing the course, students are eligible to pursue certifications through the Dental Assistant National Board (DANB), including the National Entry Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) and Clinical Dental Assistant (CDA) certifications. These credentials can significantly enhance career opportunities.

NJCU provides a comprehensive set of resources, including:

• Textbooks and instructional guides delivered within 7-10 business days after enrollment.
• Optional tutorials for Dentrix Practice Management Software, a leading dental office software.
• Access to a student advising team for guidance on administrative and program-related queries.

While the course is self-paced, NJCU ensures students have the tools needed to succeed. However, assistance with course content is limited as this is a self-guided program.

The course has no prerequisites, making it accessible to anyone interested in entering the dental field. Students will need:

• A PC, Mac, or Chromebook with internet access.
• Basic email and computer literacy.
• Software compatibility for optional Dentrix tutorials (PC only).

• Hands-on Insights: Gain practical knowledge from experienced dental assistants through course materials.
• Career Growth: Dental assisting is a growing field, with a projected 7% job growth through 2032 and a median annual salary of $44,820 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
• Job-Ready Skills: Students graduate with skills in radiology, pharmacology, sedation, and patient care that are essential for dental practices.

While the program does not qualify for federal aid, students may explore financial assistance through workforce development boards or vocational rehabilitation programs. Tuition financing options may also be available.