School of Health Sciences
Make a Career Out of Making People Smile
Do you love working with people and want to be part of a growing healthcare field?
The Dental Assisting Diploma program at Rockford Career College gives you the knowledge and real-world experience to begin a rewarding dental career in less than a year. In just 10 months, you’ll learn the hands-on skills dentists rely on—from assisting with procedures to managing patient records—and gain valuable insight into running a busy dental office.
This hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person lab training and a clinical externship, so you’ll graduate with both flexibility and experience. At Rockford, we don’t just teach—we mentor, coach, and support you every step of the way.
Dental Assisting Diploma
Gain the clinical, technical, and communication skills to thrive in dental care settings.
DURATION: 10 Months
CREDENTIALS: Diploma
FORMAT: Hybrid (On-Campus/Online/Externship)
CREDITS: 60 quarter credit hours
Learn the skills and get the confidence to be prepared to make a difference in the lives of patients from day one.
What You’ll Study in Our Dental Assisting Program
This program is designed to teach you exactly what today’s dental practices need—from hands-on skills to administrative know-how.
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By the time you complete this program, you’ll not only know what to do—you’ll have done it. This is the Rockford way: education that works.
Where Your Dental Assisting Diploma Can Take YouÂ
Dental assistants are in demand across clinics, specialty practices, and community health centers. Whether you want to work with kids, support surgical procedures,
or help manage a front office, your training will give you the flexibility to choose the path that fits you best.
This is a great career for people who are organized, friendly, and eager to make patients feel at ease. Your role helps make the entire dental experience smoother,
and your work will be noticed and appreciated every day.
Graduates of the Dental Assisting program may pursue roles like:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 56,400 openings for dental assistants are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.1
You’re ready to do something different — let’s take the next step together.
At Rockford Career College, we believe that everyone deserves a chance to build a better future. That’s why our admissions process is designed to be clear, supportive, and all about helping you succeed — from your very first conversation with us.
To be eligible for enrollment, students must:
Every applicant will meet with an admissions advisor to: help answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you determine if this is the right path for your goals and lifestyle.
We’re looking for students who are:
Flexible. Focused. Built for real life.
Most programs are blended, combining scheduled on-campus classes with online coursework. This gives you the hands-on training you need — plus the flexibility to complete assignments at home.
You’ll typically take two classes every five weeks and should plan for 12–15 hours per week of homework and studying. Instructors also offer live virtual office hours for extra support.
Whether you’re working, parenting, or have other commitments — we’ll help make school work for you.
Q: Do I need dental or medical experience to enroll?Â
No experience is necessary. This program is beginner-friendly and provides all the foundational training you’ll need to succeed.
Q: Where will my externship take place?Â
You’ll be matched with a local dental office for your 180-hour externship so you can gain hands-on experience in a real-world environment.
Q: What should I expect as a dental assisting student?Â
Expect a fast-paced, hands-on experience where you’re learning something new each week—whether it’s taking X-rays, preparing trays, or helping classmates practice chairside techniques.Â
Q: Will I be able to work while taking classes?Â
Yes. Many students work part-time while completing the program. The online components and predictable lab schedules make it easier to manage your time.
Next Session Starts: September 8, 2025
After you complete the Dental Assisting Diploma Program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Healthcare Administration Associate Degree completion program. That’s only 17 months total to get an associate degree.
Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get In touch
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour
Why Choose the Dental Assisting
Program at Rockford?
After you complete the Dental Assisting Diploma Program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Healthcare Administration Associate Degree completion program. That’s only 17 months total to get an associate degree.
Worried about how to afford dental assisting training? Let us help! Our friendly financial aid team is here to help you explore funding, scholarships, and grants to help make Rockford fit your budget.
Rockford Career College
(A Branch Campus of Stautzenberger College-Maumee)
1130 S Alpine Rd #100,
Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: (815) 965-8616
or (888) 680-6682
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