Prepare for a fulfilling career helping people to improve their oral health with the dental assisting program at NOVA. You’ll perfect your skills through clinical rotations in local dental offices.
With NOVA’s Certificate in Dental Assisting, you’ll receive a broad education in the theory and skills required to be a dental assistant. You’ll learn to perform chairside assisting, minor laboratory and basic office procedures through courses in chairside assisting, radiology, dental materials, dental and biomedical sciences, and preclinical and lab sessions. You’ll perfect your skills through clinical rotations in local dental offices. After you graduate, you’ll have what you need to be a productive and valued dental health team member. You’ll be eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board Examination (DANB). After passing the exam, you’ll earn the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential.
You’ll learn from NOVA faculty who are experts in the field. They’ll impart their knowledge and wisdom and ensure you receive hands-on exposure to a variety of dental specialties and settings.
You’ll take comprehensive courses in chairside assisting, radiology, dental materials, dental and biomedical sciences as well as clinical practice.
You’ll receive an affordable dental assisting education. You may be eligible for NOVA scholarships to offset the cost of your certificate.
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
Northern Virginia Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award the certificate in dental assisting. The dental assisting program is also accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
Credit for prior learning (CPL) generally refers to the process of granting college credit for learning gained in nontraditional ways, including but not limited to: certifications, AP or IB exams, military training, or life experience.
Learn more about possible transfer opportunities associated with this program of study. Students interested in transferring should contact an advisor or counselor to further discuss their plans.