Dental Assistant Training Program
Dental Assistant Training Program
Applications for Spring Cohort open on August 24
The Dental Assistant Training Program, offered in partnership with the University of Utah School of Dentistry and Professional Education, prepares qualified applicants to start a rewarding new career in just four months.
Employment Trends & Data
Employment for dental assistants is expected to grow by 8% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Demand remains strong in both private practices and public health settings, with around 54,900 job openings projected each year due to retirements and career changes.
Along with competitive pay, many dental assistants enjoy regular daytime hours, predictable schedules, and the opportunity to work closely with a team focused on patient care.
Ready to get started? Apply now and take the first step toward a rewarding career in dental assisting.
The Dental Assistant Training Program blends trusted instruction with modern, hands-on learning. Students gain experience through clinical rotations and lab-based workshops, while also building skills with advanced tools like digital scanning, 3D imaging, and virtual simulations.
With a focus on patient-centered care and emerging technologies, graduates are prepared to make an immediate impact. Supported by the University of Utah’s strong reputation in healthcare education, this program helps students build a solid foundation for long-term success in a growing field.
The program includes access to the 36-hour online National Entry-Level Dental Assistant (NELDA) curriculum, a study resource developed by the DALE Foundation and founded by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). This NELDA Bundle is designed to help students prepare for the DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam:
- Radiation Health and Safety (RHS®)
- Infection Control (ICE®)
- Anatomy, Morphology and Physiology (AMP®)
This unique program combines the NELDA curriculum with hands-on experience to build practical skills and boost your exam readiness. Please note that to sit for the CDA exam you must have a minimum of 3,500 hours of dental assisting experience. Completing the CDA exam is not a required component of our program, but the curriculum is designed to help students prepare for the DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam once their hours are obtained. Students are responsible for scheduling and paying for the official exams through DANB at an approved testing center.
Offered Spring, Summer, and Fall: Offered once per semester with specific start and end dates. Schedule details are sent to applicants once their application is received.
Program Cost: $3,090
(Includes $2,925 tuition + $165 non-refundable special fee)
This program is not eligible for employee tuition reduction.
Students will move through the program in approximately 14-16 weeks.
- Attend one mandatory, in-person 4-hour orientation session to meet your instructors and get prepared for the program.
- Complete the 36-hour interactive NELDA online curriculum, designed for entry-level learners by The Dale Foundation founded by DANB. Plan to study 15–20 hours per week to stay on track for in-person skills workshops.
- Participate in three 8-hour, hands-on skills workshops held during daytime hours in the Simulation Lab, Technique Lab, and clinical spaces at the University of Utah School of Dentistry. Optional open lab dates are also available for extra practice and review.
- Begin a 90-hour externship in a dental setting after completing the second skills workshop. Externships take place during daytime hours and are coordinated and overseen by the University of Utah School of Dentistry (SOD).
- Join one daytime clinic session per month to gain real-world experience in chairside dental assisting and patient care.
- Be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED
- Demonstrate professional working proficiency in English
- Pass a criminal background check and 11-panel drug screening (both are arranged through the University of Utah and covered by the nonrefundable $65 special fee)
- Submit documentation of required immunizations: MMR, Varicella, Hepatitis B, and baseline TB testing
- Obtain and maintain current CPR certification prior to starting the program
-
We work with Certiphi to complete required drug screens and background checks. This serves as a simple guide, but more detailed information is emailed directly to students upon registration and payment of tuition.
Watch for an Email
You will get an email from applicationstation@certiphi.com. It will have a link and a code to start your drug screen and background check. Follow the prompts and fill out each section.
Create Your Account
Click the link in the email to open the Certiphi site. Use your code to make an account. You’ll need to create a username and password, and then agree to the terms.
Fee
The standard fee is paid on your behalf by our office or programmed into class fee depending on program.
Schedule Your Drug Screen
Certiphi will provide you a list of places nearby where you can go. Choose one and schedule your visit. Once scheduled you have 48 hours to complete the test. If you take any medications that may affect your results, let the Occupational Health Screening team know when you call to schedule your test.
Go to Your Appointment
Go to the lab you chose and give a urine sample. Please bring documentation for any current prescriptions that may affect your drug screen, such as pain medications, stimulants, or anti-anxiety medications. If applicable, please also bring your valid medical cannabis card.
Keep the receipt they give you.
Set Yourself Up for Success
Avoid drinking excessive fluids (including caffeine) 4-5 hours before your test. Too much liquid can result in a negative dilute, which is considered a failed test. A first morning sample is often best to avoid this issue.
Track Your Progress
Certiphi lets you check each step online. You can see when your sample is sent, tested, and when results are ready.
If Certiphi Calls You
If your test shows something unusual, a doctor from Certiphi (called an MRO) will call you. They’ll ask if you have a medical reason. You’ll need to respond within 3 days.
Get Your Results
When your results are ready, you can download them from your Certiphi account. We will also be notified. No extra action is needed unless we contact you.
Please Note: If your test result is a failure (other than a negative dilute), or if you receive two negative dilutes in a row, you’ll be dropped from the program and may reapply after six months.
Tanya Schoenmann, CDA
E-mail: DATP@hsc.utah.edu
Online Contact Form
Professional Education at the University of Utah
Phone: 801-585-1780
E-mail: proedhealth@utah.edu
Online Contact Form