Can I Take Afternoon Classes To Become A Registered Dental Assistant?
Can I Take Afternoon Classes To Become A Registered Dental Assistant?
Yes, you can take afternoon or evening classes to become a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), depending on the school and state requirements.
Here’s how it works:
1. Program Flexibility Varies by School
Many dental assistant programs — especially in urban areas like New York City or Los Angeles — offer flexible schedules including:
Afternoon classes
Evening/weekend programs
Hybrid (in-person + online) options
These are often designed for working adults, parents, or career changers.
2. NYSMDA (New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants)
In Queens, NYSMDA offers both day and evening programs that prepare you for New York State licensure as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). Their evening track typically starts in the late afternoon or early evening and runs over a longer duration (12–14 months instead of 10).
3. What’s Required to Become an RDA
To be licensed as an RDA (in states like New York, California, and others), you typically need to:
Complete a state-approved or CODA-accredited dental assistant program
Pass written and clinical exams (e.g., DANB or state-specific)
Earn certifications in dental radiology, infection control, and basic life support
Evening or afternoon classes still cover these components — just on a nontraditional schedule.
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.
