Expanded Function Dental Assisting Program
Prepare for a successful dental assisting career with University of West Florida’s Expanded Function Dental Assisting Program. Gain hands-on training, expert instruction, and exam preparation for the Registered Dental Assistant through American Medical Technologists certification. Become a Registered Dental Assitant in as little as four months.

Dental assistants play a vital role in delivering quality dental care. They work closely with dentists to ensure efficient, safe and comfortable patient experiences. Responsibilities include patient care, infection control, administrative duties and assistance with dental procedures. Graduates of this program are prepared for diverse roles, such as Chairside Assistant, Expanded Function Dental Assistant or Sterilization Technician.
This comprehensive dental assistant training combines classroom learning, practical training and real-world experience, equipping students with the skills and credentials needed to excel in dental careers. By completing this program, students gain the expertise to become an integral part of the dental team and contribute to the highest standards of care.
The curriculum is designed to prepare students to pass the Registered Dental Assistant through American Medical Technologists. Students will also qualify for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
This 16-week hybrid program includes the preparation necessary to pass the RDA through AMT exam and provides the skills needed to become an entry-level dental assistant. You will gain practical knowledge and hands-on learning experiences on topics including:
- Law and Ethics
- Dental Terminology
- Dental Radiology
- Chairside Assisting
- Sterilization Procedures
- Preventative Dentistry
- Dental Materials
- Dental Laboratory Procedures
- Infection Control and OSHA Regulations
- Patient Care
- General Dentistry and most specialty procedures
Expanded Function Dental Assistant
Dates: March 18 – July 3, 2025
Schedule: Tues. and Thurs., 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Registration: To maintain a low teacher-student ratio, seating is LIMITED.
Tuition includes all required books, live instruction, labs and test voucher for the RDA through AMT exam. Eligible students will also qualify for an 40-hour externship experience in a local dental office.
For registration information, email Carmen Martinez Lewis at carmen@careereducationalservices.com or call 817.716.2716.
Location: Hybrid
Tuition: $4,500
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Prerequisites for the course include:
- A high school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED)
- No felony or misdemeanor related to the sale of drugs. Traffic violations and any other issues must be cleared up before the externship. This is the sole responsibility of each student.
- A history of vaccinations is periodically required to work in the externship
- Commitment to the rigorous 16-week course schedule.
- Exam Prep: Prepare to take the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam through American Medical Technologists (AMT). Tuition includes the cost of this exam. Graduates also qualify to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certification.
- Expert Instruction: Classes are taught by experienced dental hygienists and assistants who are actively working in the field, ensuring students receive up-to-date, practical insights.
- Hands-on Training: Experience hands-on learning at local dental offices led by practicing dental professionals.
- Externship Opportunity: Eligible students complete an 80-hour externship, providing valuable work experience and professional references.
Students complete an 40-hour externship at a local dental office to gain hands-on experience and build professional connections. Upon completion of the program and externship, a certificate of completion will be issued from the University of West Florida, Division of Continuing Education. The student will also receive their Radiology Certification and Expanded Function Dental Assisting certificates required by the state of Florida.
MyCAA
Military Spouse Career Advancement (MyCAA) offers up to $4,000 to military spouses interested in pursuing continuing education, degree programs, licenses, or credentials leading to careers in high growth, high demand, and portable career fields. Upon creating a MyCAA account the Department of Defense will provide notification of eligibility. For more information on Military benefits or additional funding opportunities, contact the UWF & Military Veterans Resource Center (MVRC) at 850.474.2550 or mvrc@uwf.edu.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
The Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act is a federal grant that covers training expenses for eligible individuals. To check for eligibility and apply for the WIOA grant, contact CareerSource Escarosa or CareerSource Okaloosa Walton. The WIOA application process takes several weeks, so please do not delay in getting started. Once WIOA grant approval is awarded, contact our Student Support Center for a Letter of Acceptance.
Dental Assistants - Employment & Education
The employment of dental assistants is projected to grow by nearly 10 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations. About 54,900 openings for dental assistants are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
Job Stats
- Job Outlook: 8% (Much faster than average)
- Number of Jobs, 2023: 376,500
- Median Pay: $46,540 per year
Source: December 2024