v1
Skip to main content
Campus Closures: Great Lakes, Kempsey, Taree, Port Macquarie, Nambucca CLC, Wauchope campuses will be closed for classes from Wednesday 21 May 2025 until further notice. Updates are available here.
Our enrolment and student portal is undergoing an important upgrade and will be unavailable from 7:00am until 10:00pm Saturday, 8 Mar 2025.
TEST
    Overview

    About this international course

    Launch a fulfilling career in the dental industry with the Certificate III in Dental Assisting. Learn a range of skills, including how to comply with infection control policies and procedures, how to communicate effectively in the workplace and how to work with a diverse range of people.

    You'll learn to contribute to the smooth running of a dental practice from assisting dental procedures and oral health care, sterilising equipment, radiography and administration to and workplace health and safety.

    Outcomes

    What you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and coursework, learn to:

    • Maintain high standards in infection prevention and control
    • Process reusable medical devices and equipment
    • Prepare for and assist with oral healthcare procedures
    • Assist with dental radiography procedures
    • Apply workplace health and safety

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in:

    • Identifying oral hygiene products and aids for patients' treatment plans
    • Preparing for dental radiography including processing an image as directed by the practitioner
    • Maintaining high standards of infection prevention such as procedures for respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette
    • Preparing instrument trays in accordance with workplace protocols
    • Administration skills such as processing payments and making bookings along with other front office management skills

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead:

    • People management skills
    • Supportive and empathetic nature
    • Teamwork skills and a collaborative spirit
    • Service-oriented focus
    • An interest in health care

    Global industry demand

    The global dental industry market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.28% in the forecast period of 2020-2027 to reach US$42,244.27 million by 2027.

    The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest growing dental market globally. Globally, the market is set to enjoy a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6% for the period 2019 to 2025. Australia's ageing and growing population are key contributors to the growth of the dental services industry. Dental services are mostly delivered in the private sector.

    Suitability

    International entry requirements

    At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.

    Fees and locations

    Starting dates, course fees and locations

    As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.

    Additional costs

    Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.

    Structure and units

    What you will study

    At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.


    8 core units 2 elective units from the electives listed below. All electives chosen must contribute to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome. CHCCOM005 Communicate and work in health or community services CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people HLTDEN015 Prepare for and assist with dental procedures HLTDEN016 Assist with dental radiography HLTDEN017 Assist with administration in dental practice HLTINF001 Comply with infection prevention and control policies and procedures HLTINF002 Process reusable medical devices and equipment HLTWHS001 Participate in workplace health and safety

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    Pathways

    Continue your studies

    At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:


    Vocational study pathway

    Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW degree pathway

    From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways

    TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    Other university pathways

    You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.


    Keep learning with TAFE NSW

    Strengthen your expertise with a TAFE NSW Dental study pathway:

    Services

    Campus facilities and support services

    TAFE NSW offers you a range of on campus study environments you will have access to industry specific computer rooms, simulated workplaces, study and presentation areas as well as general student facilities to enhance your learning and student experience.

    Student facilities, amenities and support services include:

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
    • Smarthinking - online access to a tutor
    • LinkedIn Learning - an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    We're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International