Expanded Function Dental Assistant Program

The University of West Florida's Expanded Function Dental Assistant Program is designed to prepare students for the American Medical Technologists' Registered Dental Assistant certification exam. This 18-week hybrid program provides hands-on training and expert instruction, enabling students to become integral members of a dental team.

Program Overview

Dental assistants play a vital role in delivering quality dental care, working closely with dentists to ensure efficient, safe, and comfortable patient experiences. Responsibilities include patient care, administrative duties, and assistance with dental procedures. Graduates of this program are prepared for diverse roles, such as chairside assistant, expanded function dental assistant, or sterilization technician.

Curriculum

The program curriculum covers in-demand topics, including:

• Dental Terminology
• Dental Radiology
• Chairside Assisting
• Sterilization Procedures
• Preventative Dentistry
• Dental Laboratory Procedures
• Infection Control and OSHA Regulations
• Patient Care

Program Details

• Duration: 18 weeks
• Schedule: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
• Tuition: $4,800 (includes all required books, live instruction, labs, and test voucher for the RDA through AMT exam)
• Externship: Eligible students complete an 80-hour externship at a local dental office, providing valuable work experience and professional references.

Admission Requirements

Prerequisites for the course include:

• A high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED)
• No felony or misdemeanor related to the sale of drugs
• A history of vaccinations (periodically required to work in the externship)
• Commitment to the rigorous 16-week course schedule

Why Choose This Program?

• Exam Prep: Prepare to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam through American Medical Technologists (AMT)
• Expert Instruction: Classes are taught by experienced dental hygienists and assistants
• Hands-on Training: Experience hands-on learning at local dental offices led by practicing dental professionals
• Externship Opportunity: Eligible students complete an 80-hour externship, providing valuable work experience and professional references

Externship

Students complete an 80-hour externship at a local dental office to gain hands-on experience and build professional connections. Upon completion of the program and externship, a certificate of completion will be issued from the University of West Florida, Division of Continuing Education.

Funding Opportunities

• Payment Plans: Available for select certificate programs
• Hope Florida Grant: Provides financial assistance and career-focused support for individuals overcoming challenges
• Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA): A federal grant that covers training expenses for eligible individuals

Employment and Education

The employment of dental assistants is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. About 54,900 openings for dental assistants are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

• Job Outlook: 8% (Faster than average)
• Number of Jobs, 2023: 376,500
• Median Pay: $47,300 per year

University of West Florida

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Overview:

The University of West Florida (UWF) is a public university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It prides itself on providing a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and dedicated faculty. UWF emphasizes a strong student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring individual attention and support.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UWF offers a vibrant campus community with various facilities and resources. Students can explore the Pensacola campus, UWF Emerald Coast in Fort Walton Beach, UWF Historic Trust in Historic Pensacola, and UWF's downtown Pensacola facilities. A virtual tour is available to experience the campus remotely.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Personalized Attention:

UWF boasts a 100:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and support from world-renowned professors.

Diverse Programs:

Over 110 undergraduate and graduate programs cater to various interests and career aspirations.

Strong Reputation:

UWF is ranked #100 in the "Top Public School – Regional Universities South" by U.S. News and World Report.

Engaging Campus Life:

UWF offers a vibrant campus community with various facilities and resources, including a virtual tour for remote exploration.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

UWF actively engages in research and community outreach. Recent initiatives include:

Archaeology Institute Field Schools:

Offering students hands-on experience in archaeological investigations.

HeirStory Project:

Collaborating with a renowned journalist to develop technology for preserving family legacies.

Galapagos Islands Study Abroad:

Providing students with immersive cultural and historical experiences.