Pasco-Hernando State College
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) offers a comprehensive Dental Assisting Program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in the dental field. This program is ideal for individuals interested in supporting dental professionals, working directly with patients, and being a part of a fast-paced and evolving industry. The course is structured to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce.
Course Overview
The Dental Assisting Program at PHSC is a full-time, one-year certificate program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on laboratory and clinical experiences. The curriculum covers a range of topics essential to the dental profession, including:
- Dental radiography
- Dental materials and chairside assisting
- Infection control and sterilization techniques
- Patient care and management
- Dental office administration
Students also gain valuable experience through clinical rotations in various dental offices, where they apply their knowledge in real-world settings under the supervision of experienced professionals.
Requirements for Enrollment
To enroll in the Dental Assisting Program at PHSC, applicants must meet several criteria:
- A high school diploma or GED equivalent
- Completion of prerequisite courses, including Human Anatomy and Physiology
- A minimum GPA of 2.0
- A completed application to PHSC and the Dental Assisting Program
- Submission of official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- Successful completion of a background check, drug screening, and immunization verification
Tuition and Fees
The total cost for the Dental Assisting Program at PHSC includes tuition, fees, textbooks, uniforms, and other supplies.
| Expense Type | Off Campus | Off Campus with Family |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees (In-State) | $3,155 | $3,155 |
| Tuition and Fees (Out-of-State) | $12,032 | $12,032 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,520 | $1,520 |
| Food and Housing | $9,247 | $0 |
| Other Expenses | $4,518 | $4,518 |
| Total (In-State) | $18,440 | $9,193 |
| Total (Out-of-State) | $27,317 | $18,070 |
Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify, helping to offset the cost of education.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Dental Assisting Program are well-equipped to pursue a variety of career paths in the dental field. Dental assistants are in high demand across the country, and job opportunities exist in:
- Private dental offices
- Specialty practices (e.g., orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery)
- Public health clinics
- Dental schools and hospitals
- Dental product sales and marketing
Many graduates also use their training as a stepping stone to further education and advancement in the dental field, such as dental hygiene or even dental school.
How to Enroll
To apply to the PHSC Dental Assisting Program, follow these steps:
- Complete the PHSC online application for admission, selecting “Dental Assisting” as your intended program of study.
- Submit all required documents, including high school and any college transcripts.
- Complete the required prerequisite courses with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
- Attend a mandatory information session, which provides an overview of the program and the dental assisting profession.
- Submit the Dental Assisting Program application packet by the specified deadline, which includes proof of immunizations, a background check, and a drug screening.
Important Considerations
Before enrolling, prospective students should be aware of the physical and emotional demands of the profession. Dental assistants must have excellent manual dexterity, the ability to stand for long periods, and strong communication skills to interact effectively with patients and dental team members.