Dental Assisting

Program Requirements

Admission to the Dental Assisting Program professional courses is by a special application procedure. The only entry to the professional courses is the fall of each year. English 1113, Speech 1213 and Psychology 1113 must be taken prior to the professional courses. Prior to making application to the program students should have talked with the Health Sciences Academic Advisor (733-7545, HSC 101) or attended an information orientation session. Information sessions are scheduled in the fall (September or October) and spring (May).  Students must maintain a grade of 2.0 (C) or better in each HSDA and HSAD course in order to progress and continue in the program.  Please refer to the current College Catalog for an explanation of the GPA grading system.

Application Information

During the application period (March 1 through May 13) the following steps must be taken:

1. Complete the Dental Assisting Program application. The application to the College is not the application to the Program.
2. Submit official college transcripts with the program application.
3. Submit a copy of ACT scores. If you do not have a current ACT score, you may call the Enrollment and Specialized Testing Center at 733-7320 for more information about ACT testing. You must register in advance for the residual ACT in the Enrollment and Specialized Testing Center, Student Services Building, Room 204. For more information you can call Enrollment and Specialized Testing at (405) 733-7320.  Be sure to inform them that you are applying to the Dental Assisting Program. The American College Testing (ACT) exam scores MUST be submitted with your application.  Cost is estimated at $45.00. For more information, and to register for the National ACT Exam, visit www.actstudent.org.
4. COMPASS test scores are required for program admission. Minimum reading levels may be required for application consideration.
5. As directed on the program application, schedule an appointment for a personal interview. The interview dates and times vary from year to year but are usually in May and June.

The COMPASS Assessment Tests for Writing Skills, Reading Skills and the COMPASS Pre-Algebra/Numerical Skills MUST be taken prior to application to the DA Program. The COMPASS Assessment is given in the Enrollment and Specialized Testing Center, Student Services Building, Room 204.  Contact the Testing Center at (405) 733-7320 for information.  Students can only take the COMPASS Assessment twice during one enrollment period, eligibility for re-testing will be determined by the counselors in SSB 100. A photo I.D. is required. Test results are available immediately and entered into your student file on the College data base. If the COMPASS Assessment scores are below the minimum standard required, you must seek academic advisement for remediation.

Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted. Students are responsible for obtaining and submitting all required documentation by the application deadline. All application information and documentation will become part of the application file and will not be returned to the applicant.

Physical & Mental Qualifications

Certain minimal physical and mental qualifications are necessary in order to perform the skills required of an allied dental student.  In order to be considered for admission into and progression through the Rose State College Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene Program, the student must have:

1. The motor ability necessary to ambulate independently in patient clinic operatory, laboratory and other work areas.
2. Visual acuity sufficient to observe and assess patient behavior, prepare instruments and accurately operate equipment.
3. Auditory acuity sufficient to hear instructions, requests, and monitor equipment.
4. The motor ability necessary to manipulate equipment and supplies and to utilize fine psychomotor skills for patient assessment and treatment.
5. The ability to speak, write, and comprehend the English language proficiently.
6. The ability to communicate in a professional manner and establish rapport with patients, peers, colleagues, and Program staff and personnel.
7. The ability to think critically and use problem-solving skills.
8. The ability to resolve conflicts appropriately and function effectively in stressful situations.

Rose State College will provide reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities in order for students to have access to educational programs and services.  Students with disabilities requiring accommodations should make the initial request for accommodation to the Counselor for Students with Disabilities.  See RSC Student Handbook for details.

Application Period

The application period is March 1 through May 15. Application materials may be requested after March 1 from the Dental Assisting Program office by calling (405) 733-7336 or in Room 102 of the Allied Dental Education Building. After May 15, applications are distributed as class space is available.

Selection Process

The academic record is the most heavily weighted criteria utilized for program selection. The following are considered as the part of the academic record: grades of the general education courses required for program certification (English, psychology, and speech); ACT scores; COMPASS scores; college grade point average. All general education course work does NOT have to be completed prior to application or acceptance into the Dental Assisting Program. Written skills, interest, and commitment are considered important for applicant selection. A personal interview with the Program Director, as part of the application process, is required. In addition to the professional education courses, students may choose to pursue a RSC Certificate in Dental Assisting or an Associate in Applied Science degree. Applicants are usually notified by letter of program acceptance status by the end of June.

Program Cost

Pre-Program Estimated Cost Information Certificate

All costs shown are an estimate and subject to change.

Pre-Program Estimated Cost Information Associate Degree Program

Estimated Dental Assisting Program Costs

There is an application fee of $15.00 for all new RSC students assessed at initial enrollment. 

Students are expected to provide their own transportation to clinical sites.