Dental Assistant Program
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) offers a Dental Assisting Career Certificate program that equips students with essential skills for entry-level roles in dental offices. This program combines rigorous academic training with hands-on experience to prepare students for state certifications and successful careers in dental assisting.
Program Highlights
- Comprehensive Skill Development: FSCJ’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from dental sciences and radiographic techniques to sterilization, infection control, and office management. These skills provide a solid foundation for daily responsibilities within a dental office.
- Approved and Accredited: Recognized by the Florida Board of Dentistry, this program prepares students to qualify for Expanded Functions and Dental Radiology certifications, adding valuable credentials to their qualifications.
- Hands-On Clinical Experience: Students complete clinical rotations in local private dental practices and clinics. These placements provide exposure to specialized fields like orthodontics, endodontics, and oral surgery, giving students a competitive edge and valuable networking opportunities.
Prerequisites
To qualify for the FSCJ Dental Assisting program, applicants must:
- Complete both a general FSCJ application and a specific Dental Assisting application.
- Pass a background and drug screening.
- Provide a physical examination and valid CPR certification.
- Submit official high school or GED transcripts.
- Meet Adult Basic Skills assessment requirements or obtain a waiver.
Curriculum Overview
The program includes 1,230 contact hours and provides a balanced focus on theory and practical applications. Courses cover essential topics, including:
- Dental Radiographic Techniques: Training in radiology principles, safety protocols, and certification preparation.
- Chairside Assisting: Skills for effectively supporting dentists during procedures.
- Expanded Functions: Training in specialized practices, such as periodontics and orthodontics.
- Dental Office Management: Knowledge of scheduling, billing, patient records, and overall office administration.
Certifications & Licensing
Graduates are eligible for certification in Expanded Functions and Radiology and can pursue the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams, which lead to the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential. This credential is widely recognized and enhances job prospects in Florida and beyond.
Clinical Rotations
FSCJ’s program includes clinical rotations within local dental offices, exposing students to real-world dental environments and practices. These placements allow students to apply their classroom learning, gain practical skills, and make connections in the dental field.
Why FSCJ?
FSCJ’s Dental Assisting program offers a solid educational foundation, a range of certifications, and extensive hands-on experience through clinical rotations. While it’s a structured program with intensive coursework and prerequisites, FSCJ provides a reputable path into dental assisting for those ready to commit to a fulfilling healthcare career.
| Category | Description |
| Cost | $3,592 |
| Program Duration | 1,230 contact hours |
| Class Schedules | Limited access, classes start in fall |
| Classes Offered | Dental basic sciences, radiographic techniques, chairside assisting, office management, expanded functions |
| Admission Requirements | High school diploma or GED, application, background and drug screening, physical exam, CPR certification |
| Online Classes? | No |
| Job Placement? | Not specified |
| Financial Aid Options | Yes |
| Location | 101 W State Street Jacksonville, FL 32202 |
| Phone | (904) 646-2300 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | https://www.fscj.edu/academics/programs/cc/5649 |