Higher Certificate in Dental Assisting

About this course

Higher Certificate in Dental Assisting develops knowledge and practical capability in human health, clinical knowledge and evidence-based patient care. Students build analytical, communication and problem-solving skills through theory and applied learning. Exact modules and practical components vary by institution and study year.

What you may study

Biomedical sciences; professional practice; ethics; communication; clinical or laboratory skills; supervised practical learning; and discipline-specific health sciences. Module names and sequencing must be confirmed in the institution's current curriculum.

Required school subjects

Other admission conditions

For candidates who matriculated in 2007 or before: In addition to the general admission requirements, a minimum mark of 50% on Standard Grade or 40% on Higher Grade in Biology/ Physiology is required. For candidates who completed the NSC in
2008 and thereafter: In addition to the general admission requirements, a minimum mark of 50% in Life Sciences is required. Career Opportunities Be a qualified, professional Dental Assistant or Practice Manager to oral health care providers, as
well as oral health care facilities. Other opportunities include suppliers of dental services and products who also offer career opportunities in South Africa and abroad. Minimum requirements The minimum requirements for enrolment are an FETC
with six 20-credit-bearing subjects with a rating of four, and a minimum rating of 1 (one) for Life Orientation (thus a total credit value of at least 25). Aptitude test if the candidate passed four FETC credit-bearing designated subjects with
a rating of four, plus two 20-credit-bearing designated subjects with a rating of three, and a minimum rating of 1 (one) for Life Orientation (thus a total credit value of at least 23). English as a language subject (home or additional) with a
minimum rating of three. In addition to the above: Life Science (Rating 4). Note: If more applications are received than can be accommodated by the learning programme, selection will be based on academic merit. Note: The minimum value of 25 is
calculated as follows: 6 x 4 for six 20-credit-bearing subjects at level four, plus 1 for Life Orientation at level three. A candidate who fails one or more instructional offerings must reapply for admission. Applicants in possession of the
National Certificate Vocational (NCV) will be selected according to the selection requirements as approved by Senate. No student will be allowed to graduate without completing the Academic Literacy programme. It is compulsory for candidates who

Possible study paths

After completing this higher certificate, graduates may apply for a cognate diploma or bachelor's degree where articulation and admission rules allow. Relevant honours, postgraduate diploma, clinical specialisation, master's or research study, subject to professional and institutional admission rules.

Where this qualification may lead

Roles in clinical practice, community health, laboratories, rehabilitation, health services or research, depending on the qualification and required professional registration.