If you’re considering an affordable dental assistant program in the NYC area, these options provide excellent training for entry-level careers in dentistry. Each program is unique in its structure, eligibility, and duration, catering to different audiences and career goals. Below is a brief overview of each program. Explore further to learn more about the opportunities each offers.
- NYU College of Dentistry: A 6-month, full-time certificate program focused on hands-on training in chairside assistance, infection control, and dental anatomy, taught in a clinical setting by expert faculty.
- Central High School Dental Academy: A 4-year high school program offering certifications in AMP, infection control, and CPR, with senior-year internships at Rutgers Dental School and a focus on workplace readiness.
- Clara Barton High School Dental Assistant Program: A 2-year program for juniors and seniors, combining foundational dental assisting skills with hospital rotations and eligibility for the Radiation Health and Safety exam.
Explore Programs
Discover how each program can set you on a path to success in the dental field. Read on for a deeper dive into these educational opportunities.
NYU College of Dentistry
The NYU College of Dentistry offers a 6-month, tuition-free Dental Assisting Certificate Program designed for individuals seeking entry-level dental assistant skills. Participants engage in a rigorous curriculum covering chairside assistance, infection control, radiography, and dental anatomy. Classes are taught by expert faculty and clinical professionals within NYU’s dental clinics.
Admission is highly selective, with only 12 spots available per cycle. Applicants must provide proof of a high school diploma or GED, two recommendation letters, and a 500-word statement of interest. The program runs full-time, five days a week, with hands-on training in real dental settings. Upon completion, students are equipped to begin careers as dental assistants or pursue further education in dentistry.
Central High School
The Dental Academy at Central High School offers a structured pathway to entry-level certification in the dental field. Students receive training in anatomy, morphology, and physiology (AMP), infection control, and CPR, with opportunities to earn certifications in these areas. The program includes coursework on dental procedures, head and neck anatomy, sterilization techniques, and record management. Students also learn workplace readiness and employability skills essential for a dental career.
The program spans four years, progressively building on foundational knowledge with hands-on experiences. In grade 12, students participate in internships at Rutgers Dental School, providing real-world exposure to the dental field. Additional activities include field trips, community service, and mentoring opportunities. Graduates are prepared for roles as dental assistants, hygienists, or technicians, with certifications enhancing their job prospects.
Clara Barton High School
The Dental Assistant program at Clara Barton High School is tailored for high school juniors and seniors who are interested in pursuing a career in dentistry. Over two years, students engage in hands-on training and learn fundamental skills such as patient preparation, assisting with procedures, sterilizing instruments, and managing dental records. Students also explore oral anatomy, infection control, and workplace readiness.
The program includes field experience through rotations at Woodhull Hospital, where students gain practical knowledge by assisting with real patients. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to take the Radiation Health and Safety exam, positioning them for roles as certified dental assistants. The curriculum not only prepares students for immediate employment but also serves as a foundation for further education in dentistry.