Lake Michigan College
The Dental Assisting Program at Lake Michigan College offers both a Dental Assisting Advanced Certificate and an Associate in Applied Science Degree. This program is designed to provide comprehensive training for those interested in a dental assisting career, allowing students to learn in a flexible, hands-on environment that accommodates their schedules.
Program Overview
The program is structured to prepare students for a range of responsibilities in dental offices, including patient care, office tasks, and laboratory duties. It is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association, ensuring a high standard of education and recognition for graduates.
The coursework includes training on the latest dental assisting tools and technologies, such as digital radiography devices and oral cancer detection tools. This practical, hands-on experience is further enhanced by an open-lab format that allows students to learn at their own pace under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Duration and Schedule
Lake Michigan College’s Dental Assisting program is designed with flexibility in mind, offering both day and evening classes at the Niles and Benton Harbor campuses. This format is particularly beneficial for students who may be balancing work or family commitments alongside their studies. The program’s open-lab format allows students to engage in self-paced learning, with instructors available for demonstrations, guidance, and hands-on skill assessments.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Dental Assisting Program can look forward to promising career opportunities. Dental assistants are in high demand, with employment expected to grow by 19% through 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by an aging population and increased awareness of the importance of oral health in overall wellness. As dental assistants, graduates can work chair-side with dentists, perform various patient care tasks, and support office and laboratory operations.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Lake Michigan College offers affordable tuition rates, and financial aid options are available to assist with the cost of the program.
| Expense Type | Off Campus | Off Campus with Family |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees (In-District) | $5,536 | $5,536 |
| Tuition and Fees (Out-of-District) | $7,366 | $7,366 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,644 | $1,644 |
| Food and Housing | $8,468 | $2,444 |
| Other Expenses | $4,146 | $4,146 |
| Total (In-District) | $19,794 | $13,770 |
| Total (Out-of-District) | $21,624 | $15,600 |
Students can explore various scholarships, grants, and other financial aid opportunities to help cover their expenses. For more information on specific costs and available financial aid, students are encouraged to visit the college’s Tuition and Fees page.
Enrollment Process
To enroll in the Dental Assisting Program, prospective students should complete the following steps:
- Apply Online: Submit an application through the Lake Michigan College website.
- Placement Testing: Complete any required placement tests to determine course eligibility.
- Academic Advising: Meet with an academic advisor to plan out your course schedule.
- Orientation: Attend an orientation session to familiarize yourself with the program and campus resources.
Lake Michigan College provides a supportive environment for new students, with resources like academic advising and flexible learning options to help them succeed.
For more details, visit Lake Michigan College’s website.