Osceola Technical College
The Dental Assisting course at Osceola Technical College (oTECH) is designed to prepare students for a career as dental assistants, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to enter the workforce or pursue further certifications.
Course Overview
This program provides comprehensive training in various aspects of dental assisting, including:
- Dental Office and Patient Management: Skills for managing a dental office and handling patient interactions effectively.
- Basic Dental Laboratory Procedures: Practical experience with procedures performed in a dental lab.
- Dental Anatomy and Terminology: Understanding of dental structures and related terminology.
- Nutrition and Pharmacology: Learning about the role of nutrition in dental health and understanding dental pharmacology and anesthesia.
- Chairside Assisting and Expanded Functions: Training in chairside assistance, which includes assisting the dentist during patient procedures.
- Radiography and Emergency Procedures: Knowledge of dental radiography and handling dental office emergencies, including CPR.
Students who complete the program will be eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board Examination and may earn certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS), Dental Radiographic Certification, and Dental Assisting Expanded Functions.
Program Details
- Duration: The program takes approximately 10 months to complete, covering 1,230 hours of training.
- Schedule: Classes are held full-time, Monday to Friday, from 7:05 am to 2:45 pm.
- Location: The course is offered at the St. Cloud campus of Osceola Technical College.
Costs and Financial Aid
The table below details the tuition, books, supplies, and living expenses for students at Osceola Technical College for the 2023-2024 academic year, covering both off-campus and off-campus with family living arrangements.
| Expense Type | Off Campus | Off Campus with Family |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $7,171 | $7,171 |
| Books and Supplies | $472 | $472 |
| Food and Housing | $16,110 | $0 |
| Other Expenses | $4,230 | $2,115 |
| Total Expenses | $27,983 | $9,758 |
Financial aid options are available for eligible students. Prospective students can apply through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at fafsa.gov. The school’s financial aid office can assist with additional scholarship opportunities, including federal and state grants, and other forms of financial assistance.
Enrollment Requirements
To enroll in the Dental Assisting program, applicants must:
- Complete the CTE Basic Skills Assessment, which includes requirements for reading, language, and math (all at a 10th-grade level).
- Provide a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Meet additional program-specific requirements, such as background checks, drug screening, and updated immunizations.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Dental Assisting program can pursue various roles within the dental field, such as:
- Dental Assistant in private practices, clinics, or hospitals.
- Specialized roles in orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery practices.
- Administrative positions within dental offices.
Additionally, the program prepares students for certification exams that may further enhance employment opportunities and career advancement.
How to Enroll
To enroll in the Dental Assisting program:
- Complete the Application: Visit Osceola Technical College’s application portal to submit an application.
- Submit Required Documents: Ensure all necessary documents, such as high school transcripts or GED, are submitted.
- Apply for Financial Aid: Visit the financial aid office or FAFSA website to apply for financial assistance.
For more details, you can contact Osceola Technical College directly at (407) 344-5080 or visit their website here.
By completing this program, students are well-prepared to embark on a fulfilling career in dental health, backed by a robust educational foundation and practical experience.