Why Choose NCCHCA’s Clinical Dental Assistant Program

Start Your Career in the Dental Field with North Carolina Community Health Center Association

Step into one of the fastest-growing careers in the dental field. This program gives you everything you need to become a dental assistant–with online training and a certificate of completion provided by UNC Charlotte leading directly to employment opportunities with NCCHCA.

Apply below to start your new career!

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Tell Us About Yourself

I am 18 years of age or older

I am a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship

I have not previously worked for NCCHCA

I can commute to the training location in Charlotte

I have reliable internet or mobile data access

Ready to take the first step in your job search? Apply now

Please confirm that you meet all of the following requirements to move forward with the application:

I have a high school diploma or equivalent

I am willing to complete required screenings, which may include:

• Physical exam

• Health screening

• Drug screening

• Verification of a high school diploma or equivalent

• Background check

I have regular access to a device with a screen (smartphone, tablet, or computer)

I will provide or create a resume to submit to the employer

Launch a rewarding future in patient care with FREE dental assistant training designed to help you succeed.

Copyright 2025 Ready to Hire.  All Rights Reserved

Charlotte, NC

Location

Become a Certified Clinical Dental Assistant

Apply now

About North Carolina Community Health Center Association (NCCHCA)

The North Carolina Community Health Center Association (NCCHCA) is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening and supporting the state’s network of Community Health Centers that provide high-quality, accessible, and affordable care. NCCHCA champions community-based healthcare through advocacy, training, technical assistance, and innovative workforce development programs designed to expand opportunities in the healthcare field. By connecting individuals to education, employment pathways, and essential health services, NCCHCA plays a vital role in improving health outcomes and advancing economic mobility across North Carolina.

About Ready to Hire

Ready to Hire prepares job seekers with the skills and knowledge needed to meet their goals of obtaining an entry-level healthcare job with reputable employers. Our flexible training schedule provides the necessary preparation to achieve certification and overall employment success. Upon certification, our trainees will have access to apply for a full-time job with the participating employer, creating the start to a new career path.

If you’re exploring dental assistant jobs, entry level dental jobs, or simply searching for a meaningful career change, this is your moment.

You’ll get:

Clinical dental assistant training built by dental professionals

A clear path to dental assistant certification

Real experience in dental office jobs through in-person practice

A supportive team committed to your success

A fast, accessible route into hands-on healthcare jobs

Skill development that prepares you for immediate dental assistant jobs

Start your job search with confidence—and step directly into a growing field where your work truly matters.

Apply now

Who This Program Is For

This program is designed for individuals who want to:

Become a dental assistant with no prior experience

Start a stable role in healthcare jobs or patient care jobs

Explore career opportunities with long-term advancement

Restart their job search and find a new career that makes a difference

Transition into hands-on healthcare jobs without a college degree

Step confidently into a high-demand field with strong job postings and employer need

Apply now

The demand for clinical dental assistants continues to grow—creating career opportunities with strong hiring trends and steady advancement. If you want a secure pathway into healthcare jobs and a future that grows with you, this certified dental assistant program is the strongest first step.

Space is limited. Take the first step toward a career that offers stability, growth, and purpose.

Apply now

How the program works

Learn the Skills

Build the foundational knowledge for your role through 100% online coursework. Most students finish in 8–10 weeks before moving into hands-on training.

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Train on the job

Get paid to put your learning into action with hands-on training alongside experienced professionals.

Launch Your Career

Step into a high-demand, meaningful healthcare role with confidence.

Get Certified

Certification made easy—your exam voucher is included so you can earn a respected credential and unlock better career opportunities.

Meet Your Employer

Prepare with our support, then interview to secure your paid, hands-on training placement.

How to Apply

Check Eligibility

Answer a few quick questions to see if you qualify for the program.

Complete the Screening Course

A short prerequisite course that confirms your readiness. Create an account to access the course.

Secure Your Spot

Our team reviews your results and will contact you within 5 days to let you know if you’ve been accepted.

Apply now

Need Help?

Have a question about your application, coursework, or next steps? We've got you covered.

FAQs

Check out our FAQ section for quick answers to common questions.

Looking for this program in Asheville, NC? Start here.

Program Overview

This program is delivered by UNC Charlotte in collaboration with NCCHCA, combining high-quality academic instruction with hands-on workforce experience. Participants gain the skills, knowledge, and practical training needed to succeed in today’s dental care environment.

If accepted into the program, training will include:

  • Online coursework facilitated by UNC Charlotte
  • Structured career preparation support
  • Paid, on-site training at a NCCHCA location

Through this model, learners benefit from both academic excellence and real-world experience — preparing them to enter the workforce with confidence.