Prerequisites & Requirements

Entry Requirements

• Attend a Program Info Session (see below).

• Before applying to the Dental Assistant program, you must complete prerequisite coursework as part of the admission requirements. A minimum of nine (9) prerequisite credits must be completed with a 2.5 GPA or higher to qualify to apply. 

  If you are accepted, all 15-17 required prerequisite credits must be completed before matriculation, and you must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA.

• Official transcripts for colleges outside RCC must be received by August 20 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific time.
• Nonrefundable $25 Dental Assistant application fee paid in Marketplace after Jan. 5 and before submitting your application.
• Selection points may be awarded for GPA, completion of all prerequisite credits before the deadline, prior degree, Josephine or Jackson County residency, verified military status and verified health care work experience.
• Health care work experience points require an unencumbered state license or national certification and employer verification before the deadline. 

Disqualifying Factors

• Applicants with an F or W in a dental clinical course at another college, a dismissal from another dental program or any patient-safety disciplinary action are not eligible. 
• Applications are not processed for students on academic suspension the term before applying or with financial holds at RCC.

Helpful Info

Use a current browser for the online application. Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari are recommended.

All dates and timelines may change. Check your RCC student email and the program page often for updates. 

Dental Program Technical Standards

Graduation Requirements

The Dental Assistant certificate program requires the completion of 45-50 program credits in addition to 13-15 prerequisite credits, which may be waived based on placement. Students must complete all courses outlined in this program with a grade of “C” or better to earn a certificate. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with an Academic Advisor or faculty advisor before beginning any coursework.

See the Program Map in our academic catalog for specific course requirements. 

Dental Assistant Program Map

Notes about your academic history: 

• Applicants must be in good academic standing at RCC (not on academic suspension the term before application). 

• Applications will not be processed for students with financial holds at RCC. Applications will be held until the financial hold is cleared, and if not cleared by the August deadline will result in a disqualification. 

• Transfer applicants who have received a grade of "F" or "W" in any dental clinical course; or who were dismissed from another dental program prior to receiving a grade; or who were involved in any disciplinary or performance-related process related to patient safety will not be considered for admission to the program.