USI's Dental Assisting program offers the unique opportunity to receive a Certificate of Dental Assisting after one year with the option of completing an Associate of Science degree in year two.
After earning the certificate, many students choose to also pursue an Associate of Science in Dental Assisting degree through 19 additional hours in the core curriculum, which are typically completed at the same time as the certificate's three prerequisite courses. It is optional to graduate with both the certificate and associate of science degree simultaneously. This can be completed in four semesters.
You will earn additional certifications in:
To apply to the University of Southern Indiana (USI) for undergraduate enrollment:
Once USI has processed your application, transcript(s) and scores (if needed), a decision will be made by Undergraduate Admissions and you will receive a notification.
Upon acceptance to USI, you'll receive detailed information about next steps, including orientation, registration and housing.
There is a secondary application process
to be accepted into the Dental Assisting Program.
Students may declare a major in pre-Dental Assisting upon entering the university or complete a change of major form at any point in time.
Make sure you meet the prerequisites and admission requirements as stated above before applying.
Click the button below to submit an application to the USI Dental Assisting Program, along with the Dental Office Observation Form, by March 1 of the calendar year you desire admission to the program.
Dental assisting has been identified by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as one of the fastest growing professions and is expected to grow 25% in the next 10 years. Due to population growth and an aging population, dental assistants are needed to meet the increased demand for dental care that exists in the United States. A testament to the dental assistant program, USI graduates consistently receive high pass rates on all three components of the Dental Assisting National Board Examination.
*income information provided by O*NET Online. Occupation opportunities vary by region and experience.
The University of Southern Indiana is committed to making college accessible to those wishing to further their education by providing numerous scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to assist students in managing tuition expenses.
The Dental Assisting program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312-440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678.
Requirements for licensure and certification vary by profession and by state. USI has reviewed the educational requirements for each state and licensing agency to determine if the academic program here at USI meets the educational requirements to be eligible for licensure/certification in each state or not. Please note that some states may have additional requirements for licensure, such as residency requirements, additional non-academic certifications, etc. that USI cannot determine. We encourage you to check with your state's licensing agency for all requirements needed to obtain licensure.
