Dental Assisting School Options in Sacramento
Prospective dental assistants can pursue dental assisting education and training through a variety of schools in the Sacramento, CA, area. This article highlights three of the closest schools, all 20 minutes or less from downtown. There is a table that follows that compares valuable school information, such as school type, enrollment numbers, tuition rates and more.
- Located 3.6 miles from downtown Sacramento, Sacramento City College offers a Certificate of Achievement in Dental Assisting.
- Carrington College California - Sacramento is situated 8.9 miles from downtown and also offers a dental assisting certificate program.
- Carrington College California - Citrus Heights, which is 14.5 miles from Sacramento's downtown area, features a dental assisting certificate program as well.
Comparison of Schools
Use the following table to compare important information and choose the right school.
| Sacramento City College | Carrington College California - Sacramento | Carrington College California - Citrus Heights | |
|---|---|---|---|
| School Type | 2-year; public | 2-year; private for-profit | 2-year; private for-profit |
| Total Enrollment (2021) | 18,333* | 1,641* | 199 |
| Campus Setting | Large city | Large suburb | Large suburb |
| Tuition & Fees (2022-2023) | $1,288 in-state; $10,768 out-of-state* | $20,873* | $20,831* |
| % of First-Year Students Receiving Some Form of Financial Aid (2020-2021) | 91%* | 100%* | 100% |
| Acceptance Rate (2021) | N/A - Open admissions* | N/A - Open admissions* | N/A - Open admissions* |
| Retention Rate for Full-Time Students (2020-2021) | 68%* | 66%* | 66%* |
| Graduation Rate (students who began in 2018) | 25%* | 50%* | 57%* |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
Sacramento City College
Sacramento City College offers several educational and vocational programs, including the Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, Certificate of Completion and Certificate of Achievement. In addition to dental hygiene and assisting training programs, the Science and Allied Health Division features educational opportunities in nursing, biology, chemistry, occupational therapy assistant and physical therapist assistant.
Dental Assisting Certificate Program
The dental assisting program at Sacramento City College is 33.5 credit hours and includes didactic training, pre-clinical coursework and clinical experience. Students in this program will learn about dental radiology, biodental science, dental nutrition, dental imaging and patient assessment. The program also requires that students complete two clinical experiences. Graduates will be prepared to take the California Registered Dental Assistant's Examination, in addition to the National Certified Dental Assistant's Examination. Applicants need to be CPR certified.
Carrington College California - Sacramento
Carrington College California - Sacramento offers several vocational programs that prepare students for employment. In order to enhance students' learning potential, the school features a medical library and computer lab, veterinary technology surgical lab and dental hygiene clinic. Additional programs include massage therapy, medical assisting, medical billing and coding, health care administration and nursing.
Dental Assisting Certificate Program
Students in the dental assisting program at Carrington College California - Sacramento have an opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills to work in a dental office through academic coursework and real work experience. Courses will teach students how to take dental impressions and x-rays, educate patients about oral health and communicate with other dental professionals. Opportunities are available to work in on-campus labs and learn about the latest advancements in tools and technology within the field. The program also requires that students work in a local dental care facility. Graduates are qualified to earn the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license and the Certified Dental Assistant credential.
Carrington College California - Citrus Heights
In addition to academic and career opportunities, students enrolled at Carrington College California - Citrus Heights have a chance to participate in resume workshops before graduating. The school provides students with academic coaching and one-on-one instruction as well. The veterinary technology program at the school features a surgical suite and x-ray machine on-campus.
Dental Assisting Certificate Program
The Certificate in Achievement in Dental Assisting at Carrington College California - Citrus Heights will prepare students for entry-level employment within a dental office. The curriculum combines classroom and laboratory work with a clinical experience. Students in the program will learn about preparing patients for employment, maintaining charts and performing administrative duties. After graduating from the program, individuals can take the California Dental Board Exam and earn a coronal polish certificate.
