About the Program
JVS delivers an accelerated Dental Assistant training program designed to prepare participants for entry‑level employment while addressing regional dental workforce shortages. The program combines classroom instruction, hands‑on clinical skills training, required certifications, professional skills development, and a paid externship.
Program Details
- Participants complete over 130 hours of occupation‑specific classroom and hands‑on training
- Following classroom instruction, participants complete a 160‑hour paid externship at a local dental employer
- As part of training, participants earn industry‑required certifications, including Infection Control, Radiation Safety, and Basic Life Support (BLS), which are embedded into the program at no cost and completed prior to entering clinical settings
- Participants will receive soft skill training (EQ Suite) and job search essentials skills training (JSE) as well
Eligibility
- Must be a resident of San Francisco, Alameda, or Contra Costa Counties
- Must be 18 years of age or older and interested in securing meaningful employment with opportunities for economic growth
- Must be able to provide a U.S. high school diploma, GED, or equivalency with translation
- Should have a valid authorization to work in the United States, such as U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or an employment authorization card
- Must be available and present for the entire duration of the program
- Must provide 3 volunteer patients for x-ray licensure exam
- Must provide updated immunization record
- Must provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination and a current booster
- Prior to applying, please review JVS’s full program eligibility requirements and FAQ
Tentative Timeline and Key Dates
Note: Dates and times are subject to change and will be confirmed by program team.
*Training site is in Berkeley/North Oakland on Telegraph Avenue near Ashby BART
| Mandatory Sessions | Projected Date/s | Tentative Start Time | Approximate Duration | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Orientation (Online) | December 15 | 1pm | 3-4 hours | Online on Zoom |
| Second Orientation (Online) | December 16 | 9am | 8 hours | Online on Zoom |
| Job Search Essentials | January 12 through February 11 Various days | 1pm | 2 hours | Online on Zoom |
| Career Labs & Mock Interview | February 26 through March 19, 2026 Monday through Friday | Varies, generally 9am | Up to 32 hours per week | In Person (local dental office or clinic) |
| Completion Ceremony | March 26, 2026 | 10am | 1 hour | Online on Zoom |
The purpose of this document is to inform applicants of the tentative training timeline so that an informed decision can be made regarding time commitment and readiness to participate and commit. It is meant to help applicants see how they would need to organize their schedule and prepare to participate.
Accepted participants will be informed if any changes have occurred.
What You’ll Learn
- Fundamentals of oral anatomy, dental procedures, and dental diseases
- Essential skills for chairside dental assisting
- How to properly handle and maintain dental equipment and materials
- Best practices to prevent and control infections
- Clinical skills through hands-on experience at a dental clinic
- X-rays and radiation safety training, including full mouth exposure on three patients, to be eligible for your x-ray licensure
- Interpersonal and customer service best practices to foster positive patient interactions
- Best practices in job searching, interview preparation, and crafting a high impact resume
Career Snapshot
As of 2023, the average wage range for Dental Assistants in CA is $19.30 – $28.75 per hour, with a 2023-2028 job growth projection of 6%.
Some possible career pathways for this occupation include:
- Registered Dental Assistant
- Orthodontic Assistant
- Dental Hygienist
- Dental Laboratory Technician
- Surgical Assistant
- Medical Equipment Preparer
~ Hiromi, Registered Dental Assistant
Take the Next Step
We are not currently accepting applications for this program. Sign-up for our newsletter below to be alerted when application opens.
The tuition and fees of this program is $10,278 per person, but are no charge for participants thanks to our generous supporters. We invest heavily in our training programs to help you advance your career without financial barriers. Whether you’re starting out or looking to change careers, our training can open new doors and empower you to take the next step in your professional life, all at no cost to you.
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