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Dental Assisting

Hands-on training for a career in dental assisting.

See How You Can Afford It

2 Yrs. 62 Credit Hours
4 Semesters


$13,896 – $17,644*

Build skills for success in the dental office.

See How You Can Afford It

1 Yr. 43 Credit Hours
2 Semesters


$9,937 – $12,289*

Foundational Skills to Launch Your Career in the Dental Field

Pursue your future in the dental field with hands-on training at Ozarks Tech. You’ll build skills to provide essential support and deliver quality care in dental clinics. In your courses you will learn how to:

  • Maintain infection control standards

  • Assist with restorative dental procedures

  • Take dental x-rays

  • Provide preventative patient care

  • Fabricate dental laboratory materials

  • Perform expanded functions permitted to dental assistants in Missouri

Prepare for success in dental healthcare through guided instruction in our fully equipped dental lab and clinic, complemented by community clinic rotations. With a blend of foundational education and practical experience, you’ll graduate ready to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board and begin your career in any general or specialty dental office.

The Ozarks Technical Community College Dental Assisting Program is the only program in Southwest Missouri accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association.

Program Information

Explore our accreditation information and learn more about how to apply for the program.

The Dental Assisting Program is a selective admission program, and admission is determined by a points-based system. Points are awarded on the grades made in the general education classes, completion of clinical observation hours, and residency status.

Candidate Selection Form

Application Requirements and Information

General Admissions to Ozarks Tech

Admission to Ozarks Technical Community College is open to all individuals who can benefit from its educational programs. A focus of the college mission is on the academic, career and personal goals of the student. OTC may admit you as a First-Time student just completing their high school, GED or HiSET requirements or as a Transfer student coming from another institution finishing up a certificate or degree. For more information, visit OTC Admissions.

Wondering how you’re going to pay for college? At OTC, we believe that cost shouldn’t be a barrier to earning a degree. Our staff will work with you to make a financial plan. To browse the resources available to you, see paying for college.

At Ozarks Tech, we want your transfer process to be easy. We accomplish this goal through articulation agreements. These agreements are an official partnership to match coursework between schools. This gives you a more seamless transition from Ozarks Tech to a four-year institution.

We have established an agreement for this program. This will simplify the transfer of your credits to partner schools. To understand how this degree will transfer, review the current articulation agreements. Be sure to consult with your transfer school to ensure you’re on the right path toward completing your four-year degree.

Accreditation

The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) 211 East Chicago Avenue; Chicago, IL 60611 800.232.6108 www.coda.ada.org

OTC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Our current accreditation status with the HLC is displayed on the page linked below. Our next comprehensive evaluation will be in 2030-2031. View more on OTC Accreditation.

Program Outcomes

View program outcomes

Program Goals

Goals of the OTC dental programs are threefold:

  1. The student will comprehend, analyze and evaluate concepts established by evidence-based clinical theory utilized by dental health care professionals.
  2. The student will demonstrate the ability to apply technical proficiency in skills necessary to fulfill their roles as dental health care professional.
  3. The student will exhibit professionalism in areas of personal growth through continuing education, community service, employer expectations and as members of their professional organizations.

Sarah A. Johnson
Dental Assisting Program Director
417-447-8832

Dental Assisting Team

The dental programs advisory committee brings prospective and insight to the Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene programs, keeping course content consistent with current practices in the field.

The committee consists of a group of dental professionals from a variety of dental care roles – ranging from office managers to general dentist and orthodontists.

View Advisory Committee Members

Interested in learning more?

Join us during our next informational session to ask questions and learn more about the program.

View full list of informational sessions

Get Involved

The Pre-Dental Club is a great place to meet other students pursuing a career in dentistry. Find educational resources, professional development opportunities and meet others with a similar interest in dental careers.

Learn more about Pre-Dental club

Course Information

Discover overview information, course sequences and specific course descriptions. Or, view the full catalog to see all the details.

Dental Assisting (A.A.S.)

A.A.S. Degree: 62 Hours

The dental assisting profession offers a variety of career opportunities in a general or specialty dental offices. Dental assistants often spend much of their day working closely with patients and dentists. OTC’s dental assisting program strives to provide opportunities for students to discover their talents and abilities and to achieve individual excellence.

The dental assisting program is a selective admission program. A separate application process is required for acceptance into this program.  Upon acceptance, the students may take the “program specific courses.” Graduates receive a certificate or an Associate in Applied Science degree designed to prepare them for the national certification exam, administered by The Dental Assisting National Board and the Missouri Expanded Function Permits, issued by the Missouri Dental Board.

A grade of “C” or better is required for all dental assisting program required courses.

A new class begins each fall and spring semesters. The application deadline for the program is June 15 for the fall start and October 31 for the spring start.  Additional information may be found on the Application Packet webpage link found on the Dental Programs webpage.

The dental assisting program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association located at 211 E Chicago, Suite 1900, Chicago, IL 60611. 800.232.6108  https://coda.ada.org/

 

Dental Assisting – Program Requirements – 43 Credit Hours

Dental Assisting – Program Requirements – 43 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3 (or higher)

    Introduction to Communication

    This course provides an introduction to the study of communication, including interpersonal communication, small group dynamics, and public speaking.

  • Credits: 5

    Chairside Assisting I

    In this course, students will be introduced to the profession of dentistry, acquiring a foundation level of knowledge that prepares the dental assistant students for extramural preclinical and clinical assignments.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program.
  • Credits: 2

    Infection Prevention

    Lecture and laboratory course designed to introduce dental assisting and dental hygiene students to infection prevention including procedures of instrument processing and sterilization, surface disinfection, use of protective barriers, waste management, hazardous materials management, regulatory agencies, and CDC guidelines.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program.
  • Credits: 3

    Chairside Assisting II

    The purpose of this course is to equip dental assisting students with an advanced level of knowledge and skills, preparing them to effectively assist in comprehensive dental care.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program. 
  • Credits: 2

    The Dental Professional

    By engaging in role-playing, community service, and career preparation activities, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the significance of verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills relevant to the dental field.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program.
  • Credits: 3

    Operative Dentistry

    In this course, students will be introduced to the fundamental knowledge and skill application required for general chair-side assisting procedures. The focus is on the implementation and techniques of four-handed dentistry and clinical support functions. Upon completing the course, students will be adept at utilizing theoretical knowledge and clinical skills in a dental setting.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the dental assisting program.
  • Credits: 2

    Dental Science and Health

    This course establishes the foundational connection between dental science, health, and the dental assisting program.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the dental assisting program.
  • Credits: 3

    Dental Materials I

    The objective of this course is to educate dental assisting and dental hygiene students about the fundamental mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of dental materials. Through clinical and laboratory procedures, students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge practically.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program.
  • Credits: 4

    Dental Materials II

    This comprehensive course includes lectures, laboratory work, and preclinical training to provide in-depth education to dental assistants and dental hygienists about dental materials and their application in intraoral techniques. It covers the principles of dental auxiliary utilization and instructs on the manipulation and placement of dental materials used in delegated expanded functions.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program.
  • Credits: 3

    Dental Radiology I

    In this fundamental course, students will receive instruction on employing safe radiographic techniques and theories to produce accurate diagnostic radiographs.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program.
  • Credits: 3

    Dental Radiology II

    Building upon the concepts introduced in Dental Radiology I, this course offers continued instruction and clinical experience with radiographic procedures.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program. 
  • Credits: 2

    Dental Office Procedures

    The primary focus of this course is to highlight and underscore the pivotal role played by dental assistants in effectively managing dental offices.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program.
  • Credits: 4

    Dental Clinic Practicum I

    Within this course, students will gain valuable clinical experiences in an extramural dental office, fostering continuous growth in their knowledge and skillset in the field of dentistry. 

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program. 
  • Credits: 4

    Dental Clinic Practicum II

    The advanced clinical course empowers students to effectively apply their chairside skills in the field of dentistry. 

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program. 
General Education Requirements – 16 Credit Hours

General Education Requirements – 16 Credit Hours

The Missouri Department of Higher Education has identified a common set of general education courses that have been adopted statewide. These courses are called the “CORE 42.”  CORE 42 courses are guaranteed to transfer to any Missouri public college or university to satisfy general education requirements.

Courses in knowledge areas below, designated with the CORE 42 logo indicates courses in that area have been evaluated and provided a MOTR number for transfer to all Missouri public institutions of higher education.

Courses that do not have this designation may still transfer to public and private colleges and universities in Missouri and elsewhere, but students are encouraged to check the transfer equivalency website of the institution to which they plan to transfer to confirm.

Please refer to the MDHE Core Transfer Curriculum for detailed information on CORE 42 courses.

Mathematical Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

Mathematical Sciences – 3 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3 *
    Contemporary Mathematics

    This course provides students with a basic survey of mathematics. Topics include problem solving, modeling, counting methods, probability, statistics and geometry.

  • Credits: 4
    Cont Mathematics with Support

    This course provides students with a basic survey of mathematics. Topics include problem solving, modeling, counting methods, probability, statistics and geometry. MTH 128S will be driven by the same objectives as MTH 128, and satisfy the same requirement. The course design will provide students with more time, support, and individualized instruction to accomplish those objectives.

  • Credits: 3
    Introductory Statistics

    This is the first course in statistics for students whose college and career paths require knowledge of the fundamentals of the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data. Topics include distributions, measures of central tendency and dispersion, elementary probability, sampling, estimation of parameters, hypothesis testing, regression and correlation.  

  • Credits: 3
    Algebra for Calculus

    This course is a standard course in college-level algebra necessary for further studies in mathematics. Topics include solving equations, systems of equations, and inequalities; properties of functions; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions and their graphs.

  • Credits: 4
    Algebra for Calculus With Support

    This course is a standard course in college-level algebra necessary for further studies in mathematics. Topics include solving equations, systems of equations, and inequalities; properties of functions; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions and their graphs. MTH 130S will be driven by the same objectives as MTH 130, and satisfy the same requirement. The course design will provide students with more time, support, and individualized instruction to accomplish those objectives.

  • Credits: 3
    Trigonometry

    This course is a study of trigonometric function and their graphs, identities, equations and applications. Topics include an introduction to polar coordinates, vectors, and solutions of right and oblique triangles.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 130 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 5
    Pre-Calculus Mathematics

    This course prepares students for calculus by integrating both college-level algebra and trigonometry. Topics include solving equations, systems of equations, and inequalities; properties of functions; polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their graphs; analytic trigonometry; and vectors. This course is designed for students with a prior background in algebra and trigonometry.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "B" or better in MTH 110 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 5
    Analytic Geometry and Calculus I

    This is the first course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include an introduction to analytic geometry, limits and continuity, the derivative and differential, the definite integral and applications.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 131 or MTH 138 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 5
    Analytic Geometry and Calculus II

    This is the second course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include techniques of formal integration, applications of definite integration, infinite sequences and series, parametrized curves and polar coordinates.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140.
  • Credits: 3
    Statistical Methods

    Students study basic concepts of statistics and probability applicable to all disciplines. Topics include distributions, measures of central tendency and dispersion, elementary probability, sampling, estimation of parameters, hypothesis testing, regression and correlation.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 128 or MTH 130 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
  • Credits: 3
    Algebraic Structures

    This course provides an introduction to techniques of mathematical reasoning and formal mathematical proof. Topics include logic, set theory, relations, functions, and number theory. 

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140.
  • Credits: 3
    Linear Algebra

    This course is a study of vector spaces, matrices, linear transformations, determinants, quadratic forms, eigenvalues, eigenvectors, canonical forms and inner-product spaces. Emphasis is placed on rigorous proof and the development of mathematical maturity.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 141.
  • Credits: 3
    Analytic Geometry and Calculus III

    This is the third course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include vector-valued functions, solid analytic geometry, partial differentiation, multiple integration and line and surface integrals in vector fields.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 141.
  • Credits: 3
    Differential Equations

    This is an introduction to the techniques available for the solution of ordinary differential equations. Topics include first and second order equations, systems of differential equations, Laplace transforms, series solutions, numerical methods and applications.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 141. 
Written Communications – 3 Credit Hours

Written Communications – 3 Credit Hours

    • Credits: 3
      Composition I

      This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.

    • or
    • Credits: 5
      Composition I With Support

      This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.  English 100 will be driven by the same course objectives as English 101 and satisfy the same requirement.

Natural Sciences – 4 Credit Hours

Natural Sciences – 4 Credit Hours

  • Credits: 3
    Essentials in Human Biology

     This online only course will provide a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology, the interrelationship between structure and function, and the effects of disease on body systems. This course will not fulfill the Anatomy or Physiology prerequisite requirement of OTC’s Health Sciences programs.

  • Credits: 3
    Health Sciences Nutrition

    This course is a survey of human nutrition for Pre-Health Sciences students. Students will study the different nutrients found in food, food grouping systems, the human digestive system, body weight maintenances, immunity and disease prevention, nutrition through lifespan, and food processing technology. Students will also study the different dietary requirements for disease treatment.

  • Credits: 4 *
    Human Anatomy

    Microscopic and macroscopic examination of the human body structures and systems are the focus of this course. Students evaluate the integration of the various systems within the entire body. The laboratory provides an opportunity for identification and evaluation of representative human models and slides and dissection of comparable mammalian organ systems.

  • Credits: 3
    Pathophysiology

    This survey course studies the changes in normal anatomy and physiology of the human body. Disease processes are studied and the disruption of homeostasis is emphasized. Also included is the correlation between the pathology of the disease process and clinical signs and symptoms of the disease.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in BCS 165 and BCS 200 and BCS 205.
  • Credits: 4
    Life Science

    This course covers a study of the biological principles that apply to all living systems. A survey of living organisms with an emphasis on how life functions on earth and how living things have adapted over time is explored. Laboratory activities give students the opportunity to apply biological principles presented in lecture.

  • Credits: 4
    Environmental Science

    This course will survey basic environmental science topics including; how ecosystems function, standards of sustainability, and the impact of humans on the biosphere.  Outdoor and indoor laboratory activities provide students with a hands on opportunity to apply principles presented in lecture.

  • Credits: 3
    Nutrition for Living

    This course is a survey of human nutrition. Students will study the different nutrients found in foods, food grouping systems, the human digestive system, body weight maintenance, immunity and disease prevention, nutrition throughout the lifespan and food processing technology.

  • Credits: 4
    General Biology I

    This course is an introductory biology course for biology majors and minors. It provides an introduction to the concepts of biological structure and function at the molecular and cellular level, genetics and evolution. Students have the opportunity to demonstrate in the laboratory the principles presented in lecture.

  • Credits: 4
    Introductory Chemistry

    This is an introductory course designed to study basic chemical principles. Topics include atomic structure, measurement, bonding, properties of gases, acids and bases, solutions, organic nomenclature, functional groups, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Laboratory activities give students the opportunity to demonstrate chemical principles presented in lecture.

  • Credits: 4
    Introduction to Physics

    This course provides an introduction to basic physics. Students will apply the principles of mechanics, energy, waves, matter and atomic theory. Laboratory activities will give students the opportunity to demonstrate physics principles presented in lecture. A previous college level math course is recommended.

    Prerequisite(s): Knowledge of algebra, scatter plot graphing, slope and equation of the line, scientific notation, and unit conversions is recommended.
  • Credits: 4
    Introduction to Geology

    This course is an introduction to basic geology. Students learn about the principles and applications of mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, geomorphology and historical geology. Laboratory skills necessary for the study of geology are introduced. A previous college level course is recommended.

  • Credits: 4
    Introduction to Astronomy

    This course provides an introduction to basic astronomy. Students will learn about the composition, dynamics, evolution of planets, stars, and the universe. Laboratory activities will give students the opportunity to demonstrate physics principles presented in lecture. One evening field trip is required. A previous college level math course is recommended.

  • Credits: 4
    General Physics I

    This is an algebra based physics course. Students learn about the principles and applications of mechanics, wave motion and heat. Laboratory activities give students an opportunity to demonstrate physics principles presented in lecture. This course is designed for earth science, biology, chemistry, health and medical majors.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 130 or equivalent (MTH 131 recommended).
  • Credits: 5
    Physics Engrs & Scientists I

    This is a calculus based physics course. Students learn about the principles and applications of mechanics, wave motion and heat. Laboratory activities give students the opportunity to develop the basic skills in data collection and analysis required in physics. This course is designed for pre-engineering, physics, chemistry and pre-med majors.

    Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140.
    • Credits: 4
      General Chemistry I

      This course is a study of the fundamental laws and theories of chemical structures and reactions. Topics include: atomic theory, stoichiometry, aqueous reactions, properties of gases, liquids, and solids, periodicity, bonding, thermodynamics, and properties of solutions. This course is recommended for all those majoring in Science as well as Chemistry majors and minors.

      Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 110 or higher, or satisfactory score on the ACT.
    • and
    • Credits: 1
      General Chemistry I Lab

      The lab emphasizes proper laboratory technique, synthesis, physical studies, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and data manipulation and statistical analysis. This course is recommended for all those majoring in Science as well as Chemistry majors and minors.

      Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 110 or higher, or satisfactory score on the ACT.
Social and Behavioral Sciences – 6 Credit Hours (must include PLS 101 or HST 120 or HST 130)

Social and Behavioral Sciences – 6 Credit Hours (must include PLS 101 or HST 120 or HST 130)

  • Credits: 3
    Introduction to Anthropology

    This course introduces the student to the four subfields of anthropology: physical/biological, ethnology/cultural, linguistic and archaeological/material. The human condition will be studied using the various methods and theories that are specific to each sub-discipline.

  • Credits: 3
    Cultural Anthropology

    Cultural Anthropology, also known as ethnology, social anthropology or sociocultural anthropology, is the largest of the four ‘fields’ or subdisciplines of anthropology. Cultural anthropologists study the ways in which people live throughout the world and write accounts of cultures, known as ethnographies, to gain insights into the human condition. Cultural anthropology also compares the ways of living, developing concepts and theories that apply to all cultures and making cross-cultural generalizations about human behavior.

    Prerequisite(s): ANT 101 or SOC 101.
  • Credits: 3
    Intro Mass Communication

    The media are everywhere, and they affect almost every aspect of our lives, including our knowledge of the world around us: the decisions we make as consumers and the values we embrace. Print and electronic media are covered in this course.

    Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 105.
  • Credits: 3
    Intro to Criminal Justice

    This is an introductory course in the philosophical and historical background of the American criminal justice system and its primary components:  law enforcement, courts, and corrections.  Students will examine the organization, purpose, and functions of the three components in the administration of criminal justice. 

  • Credits: 3
    Principles of Macroeconomics

    This course provides an introduction to the origin and derivation of economic systems. This course includes a look at the structure, organization, operation, and the goals of the United States economic system. A study in basic economic principles, including the role of the government in conducting economic policies (spending and taxes), the role of the Federal Reserve in managing the supply of money, and the role of others (including households and businesses) in determining economic outcomes is included. This course prepares students for further study in economics.

  • Credits: 3
    Principles of Microeconomics

    This course is an introduction to microeconomic analysis. It is an in-depth look at the behavior of the individual and businesses as it relates to the determination of the price structure, distribution of income, and trade. This course is an examination of the participants and structures of the marketplace.

    Prerequisite(s): ECO 270.
  • Credits: 3
    World Geography

    Students in this course learn the role of geography in the economic, political and social development of each of the regions studied and how the various world regions interact with one another.

  • Credits: 3
    Ancient and Medieval World History

    This course is a survey of human societies throughout the world from the first humans through the ancient and medieval periods. Students will study the interaction of geography and technology with human societies, the impact of diverse religions, beliefs and cultures, the transformation of economic systems, and the formation of governments, states and empires.

  • Credits: 3
    Modern World History

    This course is a survey of the increasing interconnection of human societies throughout the world from the Age of Exploration through the 21st century. Students will study the changing worldwide impact of religions, science and technology, theories and ideologies in shaping societies, economies, nations and empires, global conflicts and connections.

  • Credits: 3
    U.S. History I: to 1865

    This course is a survey of the history of the United States from pre-Columbian societies through the Civil War, including formative political, social, economic and cultural developments. It also introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing. HST 120 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.

  • Credits: 3
    U.S. History II: 1865-Present

    This course is a survey of the history of the United States from Reconstruction to the present, covering the political, economic, social and cultural developments that have shaped modern America. It introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing.  HST 130 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.

  • Credits: 3
    American Government and Politics

    This introductory course familiarizes students with American and Missouri government constitutions, institutions, policies and processes. Students develop an understanding of the foundations, environment, and principles of democracy with key concepts about voting, political parties, campaigns, and interactions between the branches of government. The course emphasis is on the values, rights, and responsiblities that shape public decision making of active and informed citizens in the American political system. This course meets instruction requirements (Missouri Revised Statute 170.011.1) in the Constitution of the United States and the state of Missouri.

  • Credits: 3
    International Relations

    This course is a study of international relations, international behavior, and the role of the nation-state within the international system. Areas of concentration include foreign policy, major social and political forces at work in the contemporary world, theories of international relations, nationalism and conflict/cooperation.

    Prerequisite(s): PLS 101 or GRY 101.
  • Credits: 3
    Introduction to Psychology

    This course provides an introduction to psychology including history and systems, physiology, human growth and development, sensation and perception, learning, memory, emotion, motivation, personality, adjustment, psychopathology, industrial and social psychology.

  • Credits: 3
    Life Span Development Psychology

    This course examines human development’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes. The stages of development are discussed in the class, including the challenges individuals face along the developmental journey. The curriculum also studies the optimal conditions for humans to grow and flourish. The scientific principles introduced in the class are applied in a case study format.

  • Credits: 3
    Introduction to Sociology

    This course is an inquiry into the nature of society, the foundation of group life, institutions, structure of society and the role of the individual as a group member. Emphasis on implications for social change is encouraged.

  • Credits: 3
    Urban Sociology

    This course is an inquiry into the origin and practice of urban sociology. The course explores theories of urbanization, urbanization of the United States, contemporary urban problems, and global urban development. This course partially fulfills Social/Behavioral Science requirement.

    Prerequisite(s): SOC 101.
Institutional Electives – 3 Credit Hours

Institutional Electives – 3 Credit Hours

The 3 elective hours for this category can consist of any course numbered 100 or higher from any area of study that a student is eligible to enroll.


 

Dental Assisting Certificate

Certificate: 43 Hours

The dental assisting profession offers a variety of career opportunities in a general or specialty dental offices. Dental assistants often spend much of their day working closely with patients and dentists. OTC’s dental assisting program strives to provide opportunities for students to discover their talents and abilities and to achieve individual excellence.

The dental assisting program is a selective admission program. A separate application process is required for acceptance into this program.  Upon acceptance, the students may take the “program specific courses.” Graduates receive a certificate or an Associate in Applied Science degree designed to prepare them for the national certification exam, administered by The Dental Assisting National Board and the Missouri Expanded Function Permits, issued by the Missouri Dental Board.

A grade of “C” or better is required for all dental assisting program required courses.

A new class begins each fall and spring semesters. The application deadline for the program is June 15 for the fall start and October 31 for the spring start.  Additional information may be found on the Application Packet webpage link found on the Dental Programs webpage.

The dental assisting program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association located at 211 E Chicago, Suite 1900, Chicago, IL 60611. 800.232.6108  https://coda.ada.org/

Dental Assisting Certificate Requirements

Dental Assisting Certificate Requirements

  • Credits: 3

    Introduction to Communication

    This course provides an introduction to the study of communication, including interpersonal communication, small group dynamics, and public speaking.

    (or higher)

  • Credits: 5

    Chairside Assisting I

    In this course, students will be introduced to the profession of dentistry, acquiring a foundation level of knowledge that prepares the dental assistant students for extramural preclinical and clinical assignments.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program.
  • Credits: 2

    Infection Prevention

    Lecture and laboratory course designed to introduce dental assisting and dental hygiene students to infection prevention including procedures of instrument processing and sterilization, surface disinfection, use of protective barriers, waste management, hazardous materials management, regulatory agencies, and CDC guidelines.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program.
  • Credits: 3

    Chairside Assisting II

    The purpose of this course is to equip dental assisting students with an advanced level of knowledge and skills, preparing them to effectively assist in comprehensive dental care.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program. 
  • Credits: 2

    The Dental Professional

    By engaging in role-playing, community service, and career preparation activities, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the significance of verbal, nonverbal, and written communication skills relevant to the dental field.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program.
  • Credits: 3

    Operative Dentistry

    In this course, students will be introduced to the fundamental knowledge and skill application required for general chair-side assisting procedures. The focus is on the implementation and techniques of four-handed dentistry and clinical support functions. Upon completing the course, students will be adept at utilizing theoretical knowledge and clinical skills in a dental setting.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the dental assisting program.
  • Credits: 2

    Dental Science and Health

    This course establishes the foundational connection between dental science, health, and the dental assisting program.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the dental assisting program.
  • Credits: 3

    Dental Materials I

    The objective of this course is to educate dental assisting and dental hygiene students about the fundamental mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of dental materials. Through clinical and laboratory procedures, students will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge practically.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program.
  • Credits: 4

    Dental Materials II

    This comprehensive course includes lectures, laboratory work, and preclinical training to provide in-depth education to dental assistants and dental hygienists about dental materials and their application in intraoral techniques. It covers the principles of dental auxiliary utilization and instructs on the manipulation and placement of dental materials used in delegated expanded functions.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program.
  • Credits: 3

    Dental Radiology I

    In this fundamental course, students will receive instruction on employing safe radiographic techniques and theories to produce accurate diagnostic radiographs.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program.
  • Credits: 3

    Dental Radiology II

    Building upon the concepts introduced in Dental Radiology I, this course offers continued instruction and clinical experience with radiographic procedures.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting or Dental Hygiene program. 
  • Credits: 2

    Dental Office Procedures

    The primary focus of this course is to highlight and underscore the pivotal role played by dental assistants in effectively managing dental offices.

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program.
  • Credits: 4

    Dental Clinic Practicum I

    Within this course, students will gain valuable clinical experiences in an extramural dental office, fostering continuous growth in their knowledge and skillset in the field of dentistry. 

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program. 
  • Credits: 4

    Dental Clinic Practicum II

    The advanced clinical course empowers students to effectively apply their chairside skills in the field of dentistry. 

    Prerequisite(s): Admission to the Dental Assisting program. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about our admission, acceptance and schedules.

The Dental Assisting program accepts up to 20 students per cohort. There are two cohorts per academic year – one beginning in the fall and one in the spring. The number of students accepted may be less due to extenuating circumstances with placing students in clinical sites.

Admission is competitive, with the top applicants being chosen based on their candidate selection form scores. If you are not accepted into the program you may reapply. Directions will be outline in your regret letter.

No. You must complete the online application process for each program.

You may complete observation hours at one office or several.

It is preferable to visit multiple offices to view different job expectations. It is encouraged to spend time with the different team members to learn about their job responsibilities.

Ozarks Tech does not provide a list of dental offices. You will need to arrange your own observation. Our program has an outstanding relationship with the dental community, and many offices will work with students from our programs. Let the office know you are applying to Ozarks Tech and you want to learn more about dental by observing in their office.

If you are applying to both Dental Assisting and dental hygiene programs, you can use the 24 hours of observation for both program applications.

You are required to attend lab once a week, while the majority of your coursework is completed online. This hybrid model provides flexibility for students who live farther from Springfield. It also allows students to attend clinicals closer to home, with most clinical schedules averaging two days per week for the majority of the program.

Locations Offered:

Notices & Disclaimers

*Costs displayed are based on current tuition and fee rates for the program’s required credit hours, as approved by the OTC Board of Trustees, and are subject to change without notice. Estimates reflect both in-district and out-of-district residency rates. Actual costs, degree completion time, and credit requirements may vary based on residency, prior credits, elective courses, program updates, and enrollment factors. For additional information on attendance costs, visit Cost of Attendancetuition and fees or contact us at 417-447-6900.

**Graduation rates vary by individual. For details on program enrollment, retention, exam/certification, and employment rates, visit Student Outcomes / Student Right-to-Know. Some careers on this list may require additional education and training. For program-specific accreditation visit OTC Accreditation.