Train for a new career!
This course prepares students to take on significant responsibility as a member of the dental health care team. Dental assistants greatly increase the efficiency of the dentist in delivery of quality oral health care. A career in dental assisting offers many challenges and a variety of procedures. Specific tasks may be performed such as assisting with and providing direct patient care, sterilizing instruments, taking impressions and performing office management tasks. This program is a blend of academic and clinical coursework. Upon completion, students will be proficient in dental assisting techniques with emphasis on four-handed dentistry utilization of tray setups for specific general practice and procedures.
Upcoming Classes
Dental Assistant
Orientation: Aug. 6, 2026
Class: Aug. 11, 2026-Oct. 29, 2026
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6-9 p.m.
Lab: August 14, 2026 – Nov. 6, 2026
Fridays, 9 a.m. to noon
Tuesday, Nov. 3 and Thursday, Nov. 5 are evening labs from 6-9 p.m.
Externship: Nov. 9, 2026-Dec. 18, 2026, Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 120 hours
Job Outlook
Cost
$3,500 (includes books, lab fees and materials)
Additional costs: Scrubs, background check, drug test and/or CPR certification (depends on externship site requirements)
Notes:
- This course is not eligible for financial aid; however, payment plans are available.
- Students using the payment plan option have up to five business days after registration to finalize their payment plans.
WIOA funding
Students enrolling in this program may qualify for funding under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) based on the following criteria:
- Income level
- Job loss or dislocation
- Veteran status
- Under-employed or unemployed adults
Students must submit an application to use WIOA funding. To confirm eligibility for funding after submitting an application, students will need to work with the Land of Lincoln Workforce Alliance by calling 217-524-5996.
Registration Information
Registration is by appointment only.
Create Your Registration Appointment
Open registration for fall classes is mid-April to early July, and registration for spring is mid-October to mid-December.
View prerequisites below.