Hudson Valley Community College (certificate program – DAC)

Hudson Valley Community College offers a Dental Assistant Certificate (DAC) program for students who want to pursue a career in dental assisting. The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist dentists and dental hygienists in clinical settings.

The DAC program at Hudson Valley Community College consists of 32 credit hours, which can be completed in one year if taken full-time. The program includes a combination of classroom lectures and hands-on clinical training in a dental office or clinic. Students will learn about dental anatomy, dental radiography, dental materials, dental procedures, and dental office management.

To be eligible for the DAC program, students must have a high school diploma or GED and meet the program’s health and immunization requirements. They must also complete a criminal background check and drug screening.

Upon completion of the DAC program, graduates will be prepared to take the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certification exam. Certification is not required to work as a dental assistant in New York State, but it is highly recommended and can increase job opportunities and earning potential.

Overall, the Hudson Valley Community College Dental Assistant Certificate program provides students with the education and training needed to begin a career in dental assisting. The program is designed to be affordable and flexible, making it accessible to students of all backgrounds and schedules.