To become a dental ceramist, individuals can enroll in dental technology training programs at community colleges and technical schools. These programs are offered at the associate's or certificate level.
Dental Technology Schools
Aspiring dental ceramists can get relevant training through a dental technology program at one of these schools:
| College/University | Location | Institution Type | Degrees Offered | Tuition (2018-2019)* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Technical College | Atlanta, GA | 2-year, Public | Certificate | $2,820 in-state, $4,956 out-of-state |
| Bates Technical College | Tacoma, WA | 2-year, Public | Associate, Certificate | $5,391 in-state, $10,889 out-of-state |
| Columbia College | Fairfax, VA | 2-year, Private | Associate, Certificate | $23,660 |
| CUNY-New York City College of Technology | Brooklyn, NY | 4-year, Public | Associate | $7,120 in-state, $14,790 out-of-state |
| Florida National University-Main Campus | Hieleah, FL | 4-year, Private | Associate, Certificate | $13,688 |
| Idaho State University | Pocatello, ID | 4-year, Public | Associate | $7,420 in-state, $22,940 out-of-state |
| Indiana University-Purdue Global-Fort Wayne | Fort Wayne, IN | 4-year, Public | Associate | $8,450 in-state, $20,288 out-of-state |
| Pasadena City College | Pasadena, PA | 2-year, Public | Associate, Certificate | $1,166 in-state, $7,548 out-of-state |
| Southern Illinois University-Carbondale | Carbondale, IL | 4-year, Public | Associate | $14,704 in-state, $29,160 out-of-state |
Source: *National Center for Education Statistics
School Selection Criteria
Consider the following when choosing a dental ceramist school:
- Students should ensure the school is accredited with the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (ADA). Students interested in certification after graduation from an associate's degree program should ensure the school is recognized by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology (NBC).
- Students should look at available scheduling options. Some schools have strict day programs, while others offer evening and weekend courses. Some programs have rigid guidelines that require students to take classes in a specific order.
- Students should ensure that programs offer practical, hands-on training. Look for schools that offer extensive laboratory hours or job shadowing.
Certificate in Dental Ceramics
In approximately 17 credit hours, students can earn a dental ceramics technologist certificate. This program provides students with the knowledge and skills to work in a dental laboratory. Successful completion of a dental ceramics course can also help students earn certificates in other dental specialties, including partial or complete dentures, bridgework and crown techniques. Most programs can be completed in 1-2 semesters.
Associate's Degree in Dental Ceramics
An associate's degree program covers general education in addition to all five dental technical specialties. Some schools may even award students specialization certificates in addition to an associate's degree. Most programs are 4-5 months in length. Graduates of a NBC-recognized school are eligible to sit for the Certified Dental Technician (CDT) exam.
By enrolling in an accredited undergraduate dental technology program, students who want to become dental ceramists can take the courses and get the practical training they need to prepare for licensure exams and apply for entry-level jobs in the field.
