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

Program completion rates

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 of the pandemic, the college wasn't able to fill its 2021 class.

• Class of 2022: 32 students accepted, 22 graduated = 69%
   
• Class of 2021: 28 students accepted, 21 graduated = 75%
   
• Class of 2020: 32 students accepted, 29 graduated = 91%

Employment rates

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.

• Class of 2022: 17 of 22 graduates were employed within two months of program completion = 77%
  • One entered North Carolina State University to pursue a four-year degree
  • One entered Dental Hygiene School in Fall 2022
  • One traveled abroad for two months post-graduation
  • Two opted not to be employed in dental assisting even though multiple job opportunities were available
   
• Class of 2021: 21 of 21 graduates were employed within two months of program completion = 100%
   
• Class of 2020: 27 of 29 graduates were employed within two months of program completion = 93%
  • Two opted not to be employed in dental assisting even though multiple job opportunities were available

National Board pass rates

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.

• Class of 2022: 21 of 22 graduates successfully completed the CDA exam = 95% pass rate
   
• Class of 2021: 20 of 21 graduates successfully completed the CDA exam (one student did not challenge the exam) = 100% pass rate
   
• Class of 2020: 28 of 29 graduates successfully completed the CDA exam = 97% pass rate