School Information
There are only three postsecondary institutions within 50 miles of Des Moines, IA, that provide dental assisting programs. One of these institutions is a for-profit school. Based on distinction, student-to-faculty ratio and number of diplomas awarded in this field of study, the following college is considered a top school in the Des Moines area for dental assisting studies:
- Winner: Des Moines Area Community College is the largest public or private school in or around Des Moines that provides programs in dental assisting. Students can earn a diploma in this subject. The college awards the highest number of diplomas in dental assisting in the area.
School Info Chart
| Category | Des Moines Area Community College |
|---|---|
| Distinction | Largest community college in Iowa in terms of student enrollment* |
| Location | Ankeny, Iowa |
| School Type | 2-year, public |
| Tuition & Fees (2013-2014) | Undergrad: $4,080 (in state); $8,160 (out-of-state)* |
| Dental Assisting Programs Offered | Diploma |
| Dental Assisting Diplomas Awarded in 2012-2013 | 40* |
| Undergraduate Graduation Rate (in 150% of normal degree time) for 2010 Entering Class | 17%* |
| Noteworthy | Dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation |
Sources: *NCES College Navigator
Des Moines Area Community College
- 19:1 student-to-faculty ratio
- Full- and part-time programs available in dental assisting
- Graduates prepared to sit for national certification exams
- Dental assisting studies presented through classroom instruction, seminars, labs and hands-on clinical experiences
Des Moines Area Community College is located roughly nine miles outside of Des Moines. Its main campus is situated in Ankeny, and it has five other campuses in the area, including two in Des Moines. More than 20,000 students are enrolled in this college. The school's dental assisting program is found at the Ankeny campus.
The 47-credit Dental Assistant Diploma program teaches students how to assist with both administrative and clinical duties in a dental office. Course topics likely to be addressed in the curriculum include oral radiology, chairside delivery systems, dental materials, dental emergency procedures, dental anatomy, microbiology and oral pathology. A course in dental office management is included as well.
