This one-year online Dental Assisting certificate program prepares those who are new to the profession to perform a variety of tasks in dental offices, including sterilization of instruments, setting up dental materials and performing office duties. 

This academic program is primarily designed for those who wish to enter the workforce immediately following graduation and satisfies all requirements set by New York State to become a Licensed Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). 

According to NYS Office of the Professions, a dental assistant must be licensed in order to perform supportive services under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist. Upon receiving Hudson Valley Community College Dental Assistant Certificate of Completion, the graduate may apply for the New York State Professional Dental Assisting (NYPDA) Examination, Radiation Health & Safety (RHS) Exam and Infection Control Exam (ICE). 

These exams are administered by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) to become a New York State Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). Graduates may apply for licensure after completing all of the above requirements; there is an additional fee for the examination and licensure process.