If you’re considering a career in dental assisting, one of the first decisions you’ll face is where to pursue your education. Should you attend a small technical school or a larger community or traditional college? Both options offer unique benefits, but the right choice depends on your personal preferences, career goals, and the type of learning experience you’re looking for.
In this blog post, we’ll compare the benefits of attending a small technical school versus a college for dental assisting, so you can make an informed decision about which path is right for you.
What Is a Small Technical School?
A small technical school is typically a vocational or trade school focused on providing hands-on, career-oriented education in a specific field. These institutions are often more affordable and shorter in duration than traditional colleges. Many technical schools offer certificate or diploma programs that can help students enter the workforce quickly.
Key Features of a Small Technical School:
- Shorter programs (usually 9-12 months)
- Focus on practical, career-specific training
- More affordable tuition compared to traditional colleges
- Smaller class sizes for more personalized instruction
- Often includes externships or clinical placements
What Is a College?
A college offering a dental assisting program may be a community college, a four-year university with a dental program, or a specialized school with a broader academic scope. Colleges often offer more comprehensive programs that may include an associate’s degree, which involves a combination of general education courses and dental-specific training.
Key Features of Attending a College for Dental Assisting:
- Typically requires 2 years to complete (Associate’s degree)
- Includes general education courses (e.g., English, Math, Science)
- May provide more resources like research opportunities, career services, and student organizations
- Larger class sizes and potentially more diverse student body
- May offer broader career opportunities with additional credentials
Key Differences Between Technical School & College for Dental Assisting
| Aspect | Small Technical School | College (Community or 4-year) |
| Program Length | Typically 9-12 months for a diploma or certificate | 2 years for an associate’s degree |
| Cost | Generally more affordable, lower tuition rates | Higher tuition fees due to longer programs |
| Course Focus | Focused mainly on dental assisting skills and training | Combines dental training with general education |
| Class Size | Smaller class sizes for more one-on-one instruction | Larger class sizes, especially in general courses |
| Learning Approach | Hands-on, practical experience is emphasized | More theoretical learning alongside clinical training |
| Certifications | Leads to certification or licensure in dental assisting | Often leads to an associate degree plus certification |
| Post-Graduation Support | Focus on immediate job placement and externships | More comprehensive career services and transfer opportunities |
| Flexibility | More flexible scheduling, often with evening or weekend options | Typically follows a more structured schedule |
Benefits of Attending a Small Technical School
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Faster Entry into the Workforce
Technical schools offer shorter programs, which means you can complete your education and start working in the field of dental assisting much sooner than you would with a longer, degree-based program. If you’re eager to begin your career quickly, this is a major advantage.
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Lower Costs
Because technical schools focus specifically on career training, they typically have lower tuition rates compared to colleges. The shorter program length also means you won’t be paying for general education classes that may not be relevant to your career. For students who are budget-conscious or looking to avoid student debt, this can be a big draw.
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Hands-on, Career-Focused Training
Small technical schools focus on providing practical, hands-on training that directly applies to the job market. You’ll spend much of your time practicing skills like taking X-rays, sterilizing instruments, and assisting in dental procedures, so you’re ready to step into a dental office and start working immediately after graduation.
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Smaller Class Sizes
With smaller class sizes, you’re likely to receive more personalized attention from your instructors. This can be helpful if you prefer a more intimate learning environment where you can ask questions and get feedback more easily.
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Externship Opportunities
Many technical schools include externships or clinical placements as part of their programs. These real-world experiences can provide valuable networking opportunities and give you the chance to apply what you’ve learned in an actual dental setting before you graduate.
Benefits of Attending a College for Dental Assisting
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More Comprehensive Education
If you’re looking for a more well-rounded education, a college program might be a better fit. With an associate’s degree, you’ll not only receive dental assisting training but also complete general education courses like English, Math, and Science, which could open doors to broader career opportunities in the future. Plus, if you decide to further your education later on, having a degree may be beneficial for transferring to a bachelor’s program.
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Career Flexibility and Advancement
Colleges often provide a more diverse range of career services. You’ll have access to internships, job placement assistance, and even career fairs to help you network and find job opportunities. Additionally, if you want to pursue a more advanced role in the dental field down the line, having an associate’s degree could be beneficial.
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Access to More Resources
Colleges often have more resources available to students, such as libraries, research opportunities, and extracurricular activities like dental-related clubs and events. If you value a more traditional college experience, this might be a good option.
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Potential for Earning More
While it may take longer to complete a college program, an associate’s degree may help you qualify for higher-paying positions or make you a more competitive candidate in the job market. Some employers may prefer or even require dental assistants to have a degree, especially in larger practices or hospitals.
Which Path Is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between a small technical school and a college for dental assisting depends on your career goals, time frame, and budget.
- If you’re eager to start working quickly, prefer hands-on learning, and are looking for an affordable option, a small technical school could be the perfect fit. You’ll get the practical skills you need without the additional time and cost of general education courses.
- On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive education, a traditional college program might be right for you. The additional general education courses can provide a well-rounded learning experience, and the degree might offer more career flexibility in the long run.
No matter which path you choose, both options can lead to a rewarding career as a Dental Assistant. The key is to think about what works best for your lifestyle, goals, and financial situation. Whichever route you take, a dental assisting career is a great choice—offering job stability, fulfillment, and the opportunity to make a real difference in patients’ lives.
Interested in Becoming a Dental Assistant? If you’re ready to take the next step and explore dental assisting training programs, Academy4DA offers flexible, hands-on programs designed to get you career-ready in less time. Visit our website today to learn more and start your journey in the dental field!