The Del Mar College Dental Assisting Program provides high-quality, accessible education and training that transforms the lives of our students, builds strong partnerships with the healthcare community, and enriches the communities we serve. Through hands-on learning, industry-relevant skills, and a commitment to excellence, the program prepares dental assistants to excel in their careers and contribute to the well-being of the populations they serve.
Dental Assisting
Dental Assisting
Associate of Applied Science Degree, Certificate
Available at: Windward Campus
Program Overview
Dental assisting is both challenging and rewarding. Dental assistants are in growing demand. The working environment is a pleasant people oriented atmosphere providing personal interaction and personal satisfaction of knowing that you really helped someone by providing a valuable health service.
Dental assisting provides: prestige, variety, creativity, flexibility, security, challenges, and respect.
The Dental Assisting Program is a one-year program and runs from August to August each year. Upon successful completion of the Dental Assisting courses, the student will earn a Certificate of Achievement and is eligible to take the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) examination given by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam administered by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE). To earn an associate degree, the student must complete the additional education requirements.
This program trains the student in all phases of dental assisting. It was established under the guidelines of the Council on Dental Education of the American Dental Association in cooperation with the Nueces Valley District Dental Society.
The program is offered in cooperation with local dental offices. These offices provide clinical education in association with the Joint Review Committee and the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
A Dental Programs Advisory Committee assists College officials in the implementation of the curriculum under the standards established by the Commission.
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. The Commission’s web address is: https://coda.ada.org/.
Students, faculty, and other interested parties of the Dental Assisting Program may submit an appropriate complaint to the Commission on Dental Accreditation. An appropriate complaint is one that directly addresses the program’s compliance with the Commission’s standards, policies and procedures. The Commission on Dental Accreditation will review complaints that relate to a program’s compliance with the accreditation standards. The Commission is interested in the sustained quality and continued improvement of dental and dental-related education programs but does not intervene on behalf of individuals or act as a court of appeal for treatment received by patients or individuals in matters of admission, appointment, promotion or dismissal of faculty, staff or students.
A copy of the appropriate accreditation standards and/or the Commission’s policy and procedure for submission of complaints may be obtained by contacting the Commission at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678 or by calling 1-312-440-4653.
Talk to AN ADVISOR
For advising appointments, please call the Dental & Imaging Technology Department at (361) 698-2858 or email dit@delmar.edu to schedule an appointment with a Dental Assisting Advisor. Advising appointments are available in-office, virtually, or by phone.
CURRICULUM
Careers
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MISSION
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PROGRAM GOALS
- Foster interdisciplinary collaboration with other academic programs at Del Mar College to enhance the educational experience and broaden students' perspectives on healthcare.
- Establish strategic partnerships with local dental practices and healthcare organizations to provide students with valuable clinical experiences and career placement opportunities.
- Implement comprehensive support systems, including academic advising, mentoring, and developmental support, to ensure all students successfully complete the program and achieve their professional goals.
- Optimize the use of faculty expertise, clinical facilities, and educational technology to provide students with the best possible hands-on learning experience, ensuring the program is efficient, effective, and responsive to student needs.
- Support faculty and staff development through continuous training and professional growth opportunities, enhancing their instructional effectiveness and commitment to student success.
- Cultivate a dynamic and inclusive learning environment that provides students with opportunities for personal and professional development, fostering engagement and success throughout their academic journey.
Page last updated August 12, 2025.