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Program Details
Students are exposed to a broad educational experience in the theory and skills required to assist a dentist by taking courses in chairside assisting, radiology, dental materials, dental sciences, preventive dentistry, practice management and biomedical sciences. Preclinical and laboratory sessions provide students the opportunity to incorporate theoretical concepts with practical applications.
During clinical sessions, students rotate through dental offices in the community in order to perfect their clinical skills. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board Examination (DANB). After successful completion of this examination, the credential "Certified Dental Assistant" (CDA) is awarded.
Information Session
The first step to beginning health career training at NOVA's MEC is to attend a mandatory Information Session.
Please note that the online information sessions contain program information for the current academic year only.
Start the Information Session Online
There is no in-person Information Session for this program. You are required to include the code provided during the online session on your application as proof of completion.
Pre-health students who have questions regarding program requirements or students who need academic advising are encouraged to visit Advising & Counseling.
Phone: 703.822.6627, Medical Education Campus, Room 135
Transfer Opportunities
This credential is not designed to transfer.
Credit for Prior Learning
Northern Virginia Community College accepts industry-standard certifications, credentials and/or professional courses for credit. Broadly, licenses, credentials and/or certifications must be current and valid for consideration. For more information regarding the status of the certification and its eligibility for credit, please see an advisor or faculty members in the discipline area that awards CPL credit.
The most current information can be found here for CPL: Certifications and Credentials.
Career Prospects
During clinical sessions, students rotate through dental offices in the community in order to perfect their clinical skills. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board Examination (DANB). After successful completion of this examination, the credential “Certified Dental Assistant” (CDA) is awarded.
Get Started
Want to get started with this program? Speak with an adviser to start shaping your educational journey at NOVA.