Dental Assisting AAS

Turn your interest in healthcare into a career with hands-on dental assisting training that prepares you for the workforce in just three semesters.
Dental assisting student performing a patient examination in a dental clinic training lab.

Program Overview

Dental assistants play an essential role in helping patients receive quality oral healthcare. At Anoka-Ramsey, you'll learn in a modern dental environment designed to mirror today's professional dental offices with an emphasis on technology and tools of the future. Through classroom instruction, simulation experiences, hands-on lab training and an internship, you'll develop the skills employers are looking for.
 
The Dental Assisting degree program is designed to help you move quickly from college to the workforce. You'll complete the program in three semesters through a supportive cohort model that allows you to learn alongside the same group of students from start to finish. The program also offers stackable credentials with a certificate and diploma option to help you start gaining experience faster.

Note: The program requirements are pending approval from the Department of Education for financial aid eligibility.

AAS
Associate of Applied Science
Cambridge
60
Credits Course List
Why Anoka-Ramsey

Train for Today's Dental Offices

  1. Learn in a Modern Dental Facility

    Train in a brand-new dental clinic and simulation lab on Anoka-Ramsey's Cambridge Campus equipped with dental operatories, digital imaging technology and industry-standard equipment that reflects real workplace settings.
    Student using dental X-ray equipment on a training mannequin.
  2. Confidence Built Through Hands-On Learning

    Hands-on labs, simulations and an internship will prepare you for the workplace. Practice chairside assisting, dental imaging, infection control and patient care skills in labs and simulated clinical settings before entering your internship.
    Student uses dental instruments on a training mannequin in a dental lab.
  3. Learn in a Supportive Community From Experienced Faculty

    Move through the program with the same group of students while receiving support from experienced faculty committed to your success.
    Dental assisting students observe an instructor working with a patient in a dental lab.
  4. A Smart Investment in Your Future

    At Anoka Ramsey students save an average of about 65% per credit compared to regional public and private universities. With scholarships, resources and clear pathways forward, Anoka Ramsey helps you start strong, build confidence and invest in your future with purpose.

    Note: The program requirements are pending approval from the Department of Education for financial aid eligibility.
    Graphic showing a 65% cost savings per credit with a bar graph showing a general comparison between Anoka-Ramsey and other MN Colleges.
Outcomes

Transfer & Career Outlook

Complete your degree in a fast-track cohort program that includes three semesters of coursework and labs followed by an internship semester focused on real-world experience with local employer partners. Anoka-Ramsey's Dental Assisting students graduate prepared to:
  • Assist dental professionals during procedures while supporting patient comfort and efficient clinical operations.
  • Use digital radiography equipment safely and effectively while following industry standards.
  • Apply OSHA, CDC and dental practice infection control procedures to help create safe clinical environments.
  • Communicate with confidence with the skills needed to work effectively with patients, dental teams and healthcare professionals.

Program Admissions

Dental Assisting program applications are open until Sept. 20 for the spring semester.
A woman sitting at a desk, smiling and handing a folder to someone in an advising-style meeting.

More Dental Assisting Program Info

Program Start: Spring Semester (January)
All Dental Assisting courses are held during the day at the Cambridge Campus only. General education courses may have evening, online or Coon Rapids Campus offerings.

Anoka-Ramsey Community College's Dental Assisting program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).

For clinical learning experiences, students must submit a background study with the Minnesota Department of Human Services and once reviewed, if approved, students receive a letter of clearance for unsupervised patient care. The background study must be processed through Anoka-Ramsey as background studies from other organizations cannot be used. Details about the background study are provided at orientation. 

Meet the Faculty & Staff

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