Best Dental Assisting Schools In Atchison, Kansas 2025

By BestDentalAssistantSchool Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
5 min readUpdated February 28, 2025

Exploring Dental Assisting Schools In Atchison, Kansas

Dental assisting is a vital career that plays a crucial role in supporting dental professionals and ensuring patient comfort in clinical settings. Individuals pursuing a career in this field can expect to gain a strong foundation in various dental procedures, patient care techniques, and administrative responsibilities, all of which are intrinsic to maintaining efficient dental practices. Atchison, Kansas, offers an excellent setting to study dental assisting due to its well-established educational institutions, supportive community, and accessible healthcare facilities.

Atchison is home to quality dental assisting programs that are tailored to prepare students for real-world tasks. The city's strategic location not only provides access to hands-on training but also positions students within a community that values healthcare education and employment opportunities. Moreover, smaller class sizes in Atchison’s programs foster personalized learning experiences, ensuring that students receive ample attention from instructors. This supportive environment ultimately equips graduates with the skills they need to succeed in the dental field.

Choosing to study dental assisting in Atchison allows students to benefit from local internship opportunities, a strong network of dental professionals, and a robust job market upon graduation. The combination of education and community support makes this city an ideal place for students aspiring to launch their dental assisting careers.

Best Dental Assisting Schools Near Atchison, Kansas

Below are the top ranked dental assisting schools in the surrounding areas of Atchison, Kansas

Address: 930 Carondelet Drive, Kansas City,Missouri, Jackson County, 64114
In-State Tuition: $N/A
Out-of-State Tuition: $N/A
Full-time Enrollment: 240
Graduation Rate: 57%
Admission Rate: 99%
Programs Offered: 1
Available Dental Assisting Degree Programs:
Dental Assisting and Technology
Dental Assisting Degrees: Certificate
Online Dental Assisting Degrees Offered: None
Address: 3200 Broadway, Kansas City,Missouri, Jackson County, 64111-2429
Address: 3301 W 18th St, Emporia,Kansas, Lyon County, 66801-5957

Common Admission Requirements For Dental Assisting SchoolsIn Atchison, Kansas

When considering admission to dental assisting programs in Atchison, Kansas, prospective students should be aware of the general requirements commonly expected at most schools:

  • High School Diploma or GED: Applicants typically must have completed their high school education, as this serves as a prerequisite for most vocational programs.

  • Prerequisite Coursework: Some programs may require specific high school coursework, such as biology, chemistry, or health sciences, to ensure foundational knowledge for the dental assisting curriculum.

  • Background Check: Due to the nature of the healthcare field, applicants often must undergo background checks to comply with regulations regarding patient care.

  • Health Requirements: Proof of immunizations or health screenings may be required. This often includes vaccinations for hepatitis B, as well as a negative tuberculosis screening.

  • Certification Expectations: While not always mandatory for admission, many programs encourage or require students to obtain CPR and First Aid certification prior to enrolling or before beginning clinical rotations.

Familiarizing yourself with these admission requirements can streamline the application process and help ensure you are well-prepared to embark on your dental assisting education.

Cost & Financial Aid Options For Dental Assisting Schools In Atchison, Kansas

The cost of dental assisting programs in Atchison varies based on several factors, including the type of institution and the length of the program. On average, students can expect to pay the following:

  • Tuition Ranges:

    • Community college programs may range from $3,000 to $8,000 for a total program cost.
    • Private vocational schools may charge between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the comprehensiveness of the program and the resources offered.
  • Additional Costs: Beyond tuition, students should budget for expenses such as books, uniforms, certification fees, and supplies, which can add an additional $500 to $1,500 to the overall cost.

To alleviate the financial burden, various financial aid options are available:

  • Federal Financial Aid: Students can apply for federal grants and loans through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This may include Pell Grants, Direct Subsidized Loans, and work-study opportunities.

  • Scholarships: Many schools, local dental associations, and organizations may offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing dental assisting programs.

  • Payment Plans: Some institutions offer flexible payment plans that allow students to spread tuition payments over the duration of the program, making it more manageable.

By taking advantage of available financial aid resources, students can significantly reduce their financial load and focus on their studies without undue stress.

Dental Assistant Salary in Kansas
Annual Median: $18.89
Hourly Median: $39,290
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th$14.9
25th$17.19
Median$18.89
75th$22.55
90th$24.49

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dental Assisting Schools In Atchison, Kansas

  1. What is the average length of a dental assisting program in Atchison?

    • Most dental assisting programs take about 9 to 12 months to complete, depending on the structure.
  2. Do I need a degree to become a dental assistant?

    • While a degree is not always required, obtaining a certificate from an accredited program is highly recommended.
  3. Is certification necessary to work as a dental assistant in Kansas?

    • Certification is not mandatory, but becoming a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) can enhance your job prospects.
  4. What qualities should a successful dental assistant possess?

    • Important qualities include strong communication skills, attention to detail, empathy, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  5. Do dental assisting programs in Atchison offer online courses?

    • Some programs may offer hybrid options, but hands-on clinical training is crucial and typically requires in-person attendance.
  6. Are there financial aid options available for dental assisting students?

    • Yes, federal aid, scholarships, and institutional grants are commonly available.
  7. Can I work while attending a dental assisting program?

    • Many students choose to work part-time; however, balancing work and studies can be challenging.
  8. What are common clinical duties for dental assistants?

    • Duties include preparing treatment rooms, assisting during procedures, taking dental x-rays, and managing patient appointments.
  9. What opportunities for advancement exist in the dental assisting field?

    • EFDAs and specialists in areas like orthodontics or pediatrics can expand their career options significantly.
  10. How do I find job placement assistance after graduation?

    • Many programs offer career services and job placement assistance, so inquire about these resources during your studies.