The Antelope Valley's dental practices — from family dentistry in Lancaster and Palmdale to orthodontic and specialty offices across the high desert — rely on trained dental assistants to serve a fast-growing patient base.
Dental assisting is one of the valley's most accessible healthcare careers: under a year of training, weekday hours, and hands-on clinical work close to home instead of commuting into Los Angeles.
For Lancaster students, it's a practical path into healthcare with room to grow — toward expanded functions, office management, or dental hygiene.
Imagine America has partnered with High Desert Medical College (HDMC) at its original Lancaster campus — training Antelope Valley healthcare workers since 2003 and voted Antelope Valley Press 'Best Career College' five years running. The Dental Assisting program includes X-ray certification.
About Imagine America Foundation (IAF)
The Imagine America Foundation (IAF) is a nonprofit organization supporting students pursuing career-oriented education at recognized trade schools and career colleges across the U.S. Since 1982, the Foundation has helped students navigate the financial aspects of technical and vocational training.
IAF provides scholarship programs including the Imagine America High School Scholarship for graduating seniors, the Adult Skills Education Program (ASEP) for adult learners, and the Military Award Program (MAP) for veterans. The Foundation also offers financial literacy guidance, career exploration tools, and resources for choosing the right program.
Over $10 million in tuition assistance is provided annually to students attending career and technical colleges nationwide.
Start Your Dental Assisting Career with High Desert Medical College
HDMC's Dental Assisting program in Lancaster runs 34 weeks (42 weeks evening) — 780 clock hours including a 160-hour externship at a working dental practice. Graduates earn X-ray certification and prepare to test for industry certifications such as those through the AMCA.
- 34 weeks (day) or 42 weeks (evening) — 780 clock hours
- X-ray certification included
- 160-hour externship in a working dental practice
- Hybrid format — online theory, on-campus labs
What You'll Learn
Coursework covers chairside assisting, dental instruments and materials, sterilization and infection control, dental radiography, and impressions, with lab practice on campus before the externship builds real-practice experience.
Certifications and Credentials
Graduates earn a Certificate of Completion plus X-ray certification, and are prepared to test for industry certifications such as those through the American Medical Certification Association (AMCA).
Keep Building Credentials
HDMC Lancaster also offers standalone dental courses — Coronal Polishing, Radiation Safety, Infection Control, Pit & Fissure Sealant, and the California Dental Practice Act — letting assistants expand their scope after graduation.
Career Outlook in the Antelope Valley
The valley's population growth keeps dental practices busy and hiring. X-ray-certified assistants with externship experience are the most competitive candidates in the Lancaster–Palmdale market.
Training Services
- Chairside Dental Assisting
- Dental Instruments & Materials
- Sterilization & Infection Control
- Dental Radiography & X-Ray Certification
- Impressions & Laboratory Procedures
- Dental Office Fundamentals
- Dental Practice Externship (160 hours)
- AMCA Certification Test Preparation
Specialized Training
- Dental CE courses available: Coronal Polishing, Radiation Safety, Infection Control, Pit & Fissure Sealant
Take the First Step Toward Your Career Today
A strong foundation from the right training program sets the stage for a successful career. Explore training programs, meet expert instructors, and discover how quality education can lead to a rewarding future.
Start Your Dental Career TodayFrequently Asked Questions
How long is the Dental Assisting program at HDMC Lancaster?
34 weeks for day schedules or 42 weeks for evening — 780 total clock hours including a 160-hour externship.
Does the program include X-ray certification?
Yes. X-ray certification is earned as part of the program, along with preparation for industry certification testing through organizations like the AMCA.
Can I start with no dental experience?
Yes. The program takes students from zero experience through classroom, lab, and externship training to entry-level readiness.
Are scholarships available for HDMC Lancaster dental students?
Yes. Imagine America Foundation scholarships are available to qualifying high school seniors, adult learners, and military members attending High Desert Medical College. Create a free profile to get matched.
