BMCC Dental Assistant Program vs NYSMDA
When comparing the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) Dental Assistant Program to the New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants (NYSMDA), both offer pathways to become a dental assistant in New York. However, each program serves different student needs based on cost, structure, accessibility, and long-term career goals. While BMCC carries the City University of New York (CUNY) brand, NYSMDA offers a more focused, job-ready path with stronger licensure alignment and hands-on clinical training.
BMCC Dental Assistant Program Overview
BMCC offers a non-credit, continuing education certificate in dental assisting. The program is part-time and often designed for career changers or adults seeking new skills.
Type: Certificate (non-credit, no college degree)
Duration: Approximately 4–6 months
Schedule: Evenings and weekends
Cost: ~$1,700–$2,500 (not FAFSA eligible)
Focus: Basic chairside assisting, dental terminology, radiology
Licensure: May not fully meet Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certification requirements without additional training
Hands-On Experience: Limited; clinical externships may not be included
Job Placement: No formal placement office; outcomes depend on self-initiative
BMCC’s program is affordable and backed by a respected public institution. However, because it is non-credit and lacks a full externship component, graduates may need additional training or experience to meet NY State licensure criteria.
NYSMDA Dental Assistant Program Overview
NYSMDA is a private, state-licensed career school that offers a full-time dental assistant certificate aligned with New York State RDA licensure requirements.
Type: State-licensed Certificate Program
Duration: 9–12 months (full-time)
Cost: ~$15,000–$18,000 before aid (FAFSA eligible; scholarships available)
Financial Aid: Federal and state aid available, including TAP and Pell
Focus: Full clinical training, radiology, dental science, chairside and front office skills
Licensure: Fully prepares students for the DANB and NY State RDA requirements
Hands-On Experience: Yes, includes clinical externship with 1,000 hours of supervised experience
Job Placement: Dedicated placement office and high employment rate
NYSMDA is built specifically to train working dental assistants for immediate employment and long-term certification. Students complete the hours and training needed for RDA status in New York, giving them access to higher-paying roles and advanced responsibilities.
Conclusion: Which One Is Better?
Choose NYSMDA if:
You want to become a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)
You’re looking for a career-focused, hands-on education
You want job placement assistance and financial aid
You're serious about entering the dental field full-time
Choose BMCC if:
You’re not ready to commit to full-time school or licensure yet
You're looking for part-time instruction from a public college
In summary, while BMCC is more affordable upfront, you get what you pay for in life. And you will have to pay later on! As a result, it does not offer the same depth of clinical training or licensing support as NYSMDA, which provides the complete package for students pursuing serious careers in dental assisting. For long-term success and state licensure, NYSMDA is the better investment!
Lastly, if you’re looking for a real, stable, and respected career—not just a quick way into the workforce—becoming a licensed dental assistant is the way to go. And when it comes to training, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.
