NMC Code 300

Dental Assistants are members of a highly qualified health team whose varied duties require knowledge of the basic dental sciences, proficiency in laboratory and clinical skills, and practical experience in meeting patient needs. Both the associate and the certificate programs are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and approved by the Michigan Board of Dentistry. Completion of the program qualifies students for the state board exam. After passing the exam, they may practice as Registered Dental Assistants. In addition, program completers are eligible for the National Certification Exam, which is recognized nationwide.

Few jobs offer the diversity and flexibility found in dental assisting. While most dental assistants work as chairside or business assistants in general or specialty dental practices such as orthodontics or oral surgery, other career paths include the following: lab technicians, sales representatives in dental supply companies, and as teachers in vocational or college dental auxiliary programs.

Admissions Requirements

Enrollment in any Dental Assistant (HDA) course requires admission to the dental assistant program or approval from the dental assistant program director.

The following are required for admission:

1. High school or college transcript 2.0 minimum GPA, or successful GED completion.
2. Mathematics:  Math competency may be fulfilled by completing MTH 100 Quantitative Literacy with a grade of 2.0 or better, or placement into any math course higher than MTH 100 Quantitative Literacy.
3. Communications: Placement into ENG 111 English Composition or higher.

Major Requirements

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Math competency may be fulfilled by completing MTH 100 Quantitative Literacy with a grade of 2.0 or better, or placement into any math course higher than MTH 100

Note: A 2.0 grade or higher is required in HDA & HAH courses.

Placement Requirements

Program admission requires a 2.0 minimum GPA on high school or college transcript, or successful GED completion.
Mathematics: Math competency may be fulfilled by completing MTH 100 Quantitative Literacy with a grade of 2.0 or better, or placement into any math course higher than MTH 100.
Communications: Placement into ENG 111 English Composition

General Education Requirements

The following courses may be taken before entering the program, after completing the program, or in any semester prior to graduation:

Model Schedule

General Information

• An overall GPA of 2.0 must be maintained throughout the program.
• A 2.0 grade or higher is required in all HDA and HAH classes.