Dental Assisting (RDA, CDA)

Steps to Apply

1. Apply for Admission to Mesa College

   Not a current Mesa College student? Before you submit an application to any of the Allied Health programs, you will need to apply for admission to Mesa College. Becoming a student is free and easy.

   Apply to Mesa

2. Attend a Program Information Session

   Learn more about what it takes to apply and succeed as a student in the Dental Assisting program.

   Information sessions coming soon!

3. Program Prerequisites

   Two prerequisites are required to apply for the Dental Assisting program:

   • DENA 050 - Dental Communications
   • DENA 056 - Basic Dental Science

   These courses will be offered during the fall and spring semesters so that they may be completed in time for the next application cycle. Prerequisites must be passed with a minimum grade of “C” or higher within the last 5 years prior to applying. If you are enrolled in a prerequisite course at the time you submit your application, you must show proof of current enrollment when submitting your application. Admission into the Dental Assisting program will be pending until each prerequisite is completed. When taking prerequisite courses at another institution, please verify with counseling, before enrollment, that they transfer to Mesa College.

4. Complete the Online Program Application

   Submit an online application for the Dental Assisting program within the application time period from TBD. Your application should include specified personal information, prerequisites, unofficial transcripts, and program specific information.

   Access the online application

5. Submit Your Official Transcripts

   Submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities that you have attended. Official transcript submission is required for the application process however, evaluation of the official transcripts is not required to be considered a qualified candidate. For more information about transcripts, visit the Transcripts webpage.

   Transcripts should be submitted to:
   San Diego Mesa College Special Admissions, I4-102
   7250 Mesa College Drive
   San Diego, CA 92111
   
   For questions contact special admissions:
   619-388-2682 
   [email protected]
   
   Note: If you have completed your prerequisites at City, Mesa, or Miramar College, you do not need to submit an official transcript. Your transcript will be obtained directly from the SDCCD records office on your behalf.

6. Update Your Contact Information

   You are responsible for maintaining a current email address with Special Admissions and responding to requests for confirmation of your continued interest in admission into the program sent during the year. Be sure to return each such notice by the stipulated date to maintain the admission status.

Withdraw Your Application

Any candidate wishing to withdraw or cancel their application or postpone admission must provide immediate written communication to the college’s Special Admissions Clerk. Additionally, if you cannot be reached or fail to respond to admissions emails expressing your interest in the program, your name will be withdrawn from the waitlist.