Dental Assisting

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the dental assisting program?
The dental assisting program can be accomplished in either a part time or full time format. The full time format has a student scheduled to graduate in two semesters, Fall and Spring. It can be intense and has a demanding class schedule. However, many students find this to be the quickest route into the work force. The part time format has a student scheduled to graduate in 4 semesters. The course work is spread out more and there is an order to which the classes should be taken. Please contact us for class order. You need to decide which format will work best in your life. Please see the page entitled, "Which Schedule is Right for Me?" to determine full or part time status.

How much money do Dental Assistant earn?
Dental Assistants have great earning potential! A dental assistant, with no licensure, can make about $12-14 per hour. A Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) can make anywhere from $15-35 per hour depending on experience, licensure, and clinical expertise. At CSM, we train each student to become a RDA.

Is CSM's Dental Assisting Program accredited?
Yes, we are a fully accredited dental assisting program. Being accredited gives us the ability to prepare you fully for state and national examinations thru a school pathway. Our accreditation is thru the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (ADA & CODA). Every 7 years, we are evaluated and site visited to ensure we are teaching the most up to date material available. We are the only accredited dental assisting program in San Mateo County.

Is there a Hygiene Program at CSM?
There will be shortly. It is scheduled to open its doors in Fall 2010. Please visit www.collegeofsanmateo.edu/dentalhygiene for more information on dental hygiene. Please plan on attending an informational meeting if you are interested.

How much does the Dental Assisting Program cost?
The Dental Assisting Program costs approximately $2800 for books, supplies, materials, uniforms, and other miscellaneous fees. This does not include the fees to take the State and National Examinations.