Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the Dental Assisting program, graduates will be able to do the following:

• Demonstrate basic dental assisting chairside skills
• Effectively apply oral and written communication skills
• Utilize a positive manner in the application of psychology to human behavior in the dental setting
• Achieve clinical competency in dental assisting skills
• Value their role as members of the dental team
• Regard quality patient care as a first priority
• Have a practical opportunity to assist dentists in public health, dental school, hospital and private practice settings
• Demonstrate maturity and self-direction while functioning effectively as an integral members of the dental health team

The Dental Assisting program uses the following measurements to gauge its effectiveness:

Program completion rate
Program completion rates are affected by attrition – students who voluntarily withdraw – and academic dismissal – students unsuccessful in courses. Recent classes also were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Classes shifted online in March 2020, and Wake Tech didn't resume full-time, on-campus lectures and labs until the 2021-22 school year. As a result, the college wasn't able to fill its 2021 class.

National Board pass rate
Students graduating from the Dental Assisting program are eligible to challenge the Dental Assisting National Board (Certified Dental Assistant) Examination to earn their CDA credential.

Employment rate
The goal is for 100% of graduates to be employed within two months of program completion. Faculty actively assist students to secure employment even after they complete the program. Historically, approximately 50% to 70% of students are employed the day they meet program requirements.