Dental Assistant

Admissions Requirements

• Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
• Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
• Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.

Additional Requirements

These Academic Preparedness Requirements must be complete to be admitted to the Dental Assistant program core courses:

• High School or GED/HSED Transcript
• Dental Assistant Technical Standards
• Background Check (PDF)
• If COVID vaccines are required by a clinical partner, you will be notified.

Prior to Session 2 of your first term, you will be required to complete a job shadow at a dental office. We encourage you to arrange this experience as early as possible. Download the Dental Assistant Job Shadow form (PDF) to get started.

Career Opportunities

Dental Assistant

Dental Office Manager

Chairside Dental Assistant

Dental/Ortho Assistant

Dental Review Coordinator

Program Outcomes

• Perform a variety of advanced supportive dental procedures
• Manage infection and hazard control
• Produce diagnostic intraoral and extraoral radiographic images on a variety of patients
• Perform advanced dental laboratory procedures
• Demonstrate professional behaviors, ethics, and appearance
• Perform dental office business procedures

Accreditation

The program in Dental Assisting is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312-440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678. The Commission’s web address is: www.ada.org/en/coda.

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Graduation Employment Stats - 2023, 2024, & 2025

Software & Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

• Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
• Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
• Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

• Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
• Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
• Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

• Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
• The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

Need Assistance?

• Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Additional Information

For more information, view the Dental Assistant Program Handbook.

Program Contact

Nicole Schmit
Program Chair, Dental Assistant
608-896-9843
schmitn@westerntc.edu