Provide oral health care as a dental assistant

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status 
• Grade 12 English (C or U)
• Grade 11 Chemistry (U) or Grade 12 Chemistry (C or U)
• Grade 11 or 12 Biology (C or U)
• Grade 11 or 12 Mathematics (C or U)

Mature students, non-secondary school applicants (19 years or older), and home school applicants may also be considered for admission. Eligibility may be met by applicants who have taken equivalent courses, upgrading, completed their GED, and equivalency testing. For complete details refer to: www.georgiancollege.ca/admissions/academic-regulations/

Applicants who have taken courses from a recognized and accredited post-secondary institution and/or have relevant life/learning experience may also be considered for admission; refer to the Credit for Prior Learning website for details:
www.georgiancollege.ca/admissions/credit-transfer/

Criminal Reference/Vulnerable Sector Check

Placement agencies require an up-to-date clear criminal reference check and vulnerable sector check prior to going out on placement. Students should obtain their criminal reference three months prior to placement; checks conducted earlier may not be considered current. As some jurisdictions require longer lead-time for processing, please check with the program coordinator to ensure you allow for sufficient turn-around time. It is the student’s responsibility to provide the completed document prior to placement start.

NOTE: Individuals who have been charged or convicted criminally and not pardoned will be prohibited from proceeding to a clinical or work placement.

Clinical Preparedness Permit 
Students must complete the Clinical Preparedness Permit prior to week 12 of semester 1. To start the process, download the Clinical Preparedness Permit and the information package. 

It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they submit the permit on time and that the information is kept up-to-date throughout the duration of the program.

Please Note: Some components of the permit, specifically the Vulnerable Sector Police Check, often require many weeks to complete. The college assumes no responsibility for costs incurred or missed clinic time related to late submission of the required documents.

Placement Requirements

In addition to a 4-week placement in semester three, students may be required to attend various dental offices/settings for additional learning experiences. Students are responsible for their own transportation. 

Physical Considerations

Applicants are advised that for the program’s clinical requirements and future employment situations, they must have good vision (with or without corrective lenses), be able to sit and stand for prolonged periods, and comply with ergonomic principles. Applicants with back/neck/wrist or visual problems should discuss individual concerns with the program coordinator.

Graduates of this program are qualified to assume positions as dental assistants, capable of working interdependently and collaboratively with oral healthcare professionals in a variety of oral health settings. Employment opportunities may be found in general and specialty dental practices, public health, and industry settings.