OneMSU's Distance Learning Solution

Thanks to the OneMSU Network, students in the Gallatin Valley and surrounding communities can get a dental assistant certificate from Great Falls College MSU.

Using Gallatin College MSU in Bozeman as your homebase, you can:

  • Take required math, writing, and communication courses locally from Gallatin College in Bozeman.
  • Participate in Great Falls College dental assisting courses broadcast live to Gallatin College in Bozeman.
  • Experience minimal travel to Great Falls, traveling once a month to Great Falls College for lab training.
  • Receive hands-on, clinical training at dental facilities in Bozeman.
  • Earn a certificate in dental assisting from Great Falls College in as little as one year.
  • Launch your career while staying connected to your friends, family, and community.

Dental Assistant Career

Dental assistants are vital members of the dental health care team who increase the efficiency and productivity of the dental practice. Dental assistants typically work closely with patients helping to ensure their comfort, work directly with dentists during patient care, and perform expanded functions under direct supervision of a dentist. 

Because dentists employ two or three dental assistants, employment opportunities are excellent. An estimated 224 dental assisting job openings are predicted to open annually through 2031 in the state of Montana, with dental assistants earning a median annual wage of $40,670. (Information obtained from the Montana Department of Labor and Industry).

Dental Assistant Program Overview

The dental assistant program at Great Falls College is a one-year Certificate of Applied Science. The program has undergone an accreditation process through the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The program’s accreditation is designed to help you develop the skills required for a successful career as a dental assistant. Upon completion of the certificate in dental assisting, program graduates are eligible to take the Dental Assisting National Board exam to become a DANB-certified dental assistant, or CDA.

Many students need preliminary math and writing courses before enrolling in the program, which can be completed at either Great Falls College MSU or Gallatin College MSU.

Program Requirements

Explore prerequisites, a sample course plan, costs and more on the Great Falls College website.

Start Your Career

Contact an advisor from Gallatin College or Great Falls College to get important instructions on how to take the next step toward a career in dental assisting. In the meantime, visit the Great Falls College website to learn more about prerequisite and program requirements, costs, financial aid, and more.