Dental Assistant Certificate vs. Degree

There is more than one path to becoming a dental assistant, and you might be surprised to learn the benefits of choosing a dental assisting certification over going straight for a dental assisting degree.

In This Article

• What Is a Dental Assistant Certificate?
• What Is a Dental Assistant Degree?
• How Does a Dental Assistant Certificate Stack Up Against a Degree?
• Benefits of a Dental Assistant Certificate
• Do You Need a Degree to Be a Dental Assistant?

What Is a Dental Assistant Certificate Program?

A dental assistant certificate is an alternative path to becoming a dental assistant that offers preparation, training, and education in a shorter timeline than a degree program. Dental assistant certificates can be a strong contender for students interested in pursuing a dental assistant career, but who do not have the time or resources to attend a full degree program, or for those who simply want to get into the field quicker and focus on advancing their career as they work.

At The College of Health Care Professions, the Dental Assistant Certificate Program spans a total of 36 weeks and offers flexibility for students with night, day, and online course options to suit their lifestyle and learning needs.

The goal of the program is to help prepare you to take the certification test that will allow you to become a state-registered dental assistant.

What Is a Dental Assistant Degree?

There are a few different types of dental assistant degrees you can pursue if a more traditional schooling route is attractive, or if you are certain that dental assisting is the path for you.

Most who opt for the degree path choose a two-year dental assistant associate’s degree program to start their journey. After completing a two-year program, you will still need to pass the state certification exam to become a dental assistant.

How Does a Dental Assistant Certificate Stack Up Against a Degree?

While ultimately the choice of which path of training for a dental assistant career is best for you is a personal one, it’s worth more closely examining how degree and certificate programs stack up against one another.

While the course material covered in both a degree and a certificate program will be similar, students pursuing a two- or four-year dental assistant degree may receive more in-depth or prolonged training on the subjects covered. However, students interested in pursuing a certificate program should rest assured that an accredited dental assistant program will offer resources and provide training on the skills necessary to enter the professional field as an entry-level dental assistant as thoroughly and holistically as required.

Benefits of a Dental Assistant Certificate

A quality, accredited program in dental assisting aims to arm you with the knowledge and skills you need to successfully pass the certification test to become a state-registered dental assistant.

In as little as 36 weeks (approximately 9 months vs. the two years required for an associate degree), you can complete your course and be ready to tackle the state exam. This significantly reduces the time from program acceptance to your eligibility for hire.

Additionally, for students who believe dental assisting may be a good choice for them, but aren’t sure whether or not it is the ultimate place they want to end up in the medical field, dental assisting certificates offer greater flexibility in furthering your education as well.

With a completed dental assistant certificate program, you can:

• Become a state-registered dental assistant and begin work as an entry-level professional
• Pursue continuing education in dental assisting to acquire more advanced certifications such as Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) or Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA)
• Apply your learning and course credits toward another applicable allied health degree program (at CHCP, we offer credit transfer from our Dental Assistant Certificate program to our Health and Medical Administrative Services AAS program)

Do You Need a Degree to Be a Dental Assistant?

In short, the answer is no. In practice, it’s a bit more nuanced than that. You do not need a traditional two- or four-year program degree to become a certified dental assistant and begin work within dentistry. However, there are dental assistant education requirements you must meet before entering the field as a professional. You’ll need training on the administrative, interpersonal, and technical skills required to safely, competently, and effectively perform the daily job tasks and essential functions.

While a degree is not required, some formal education in the area is, and that’s why CHCP is proud to offer our accredited dental assistant certificate program. Apply today and get started toward a rewarding career in dental assisting.