Continuing Education

Dental Office Receptionist certificate

This certificate will prepare students to assume the role of dental office receptionists. The program is designed to meet the requirements of dental offices and clinics in the Fraser Valley.

Program objectives

Skills and knowledge covered include:

• Role and responsibilities of the dental receptionist
• Familiarization of tooth anatomy, dental terminology, and dental procedures
• Understanding of dental fee guides, codes, insurance companies and billing procedures
• Management of dental payment plans and estimates
• Booking and maintaining dental appointments and recall system
• Dental office procedures
• Working knowledge of dental computer software
• Effective oral and written communication skills

Entrance requirements

1. Completion of Grade 12 or equivalent.
2. 30 net wpm typing speed (attach copy of certification).
3. Successful interview with program instructor.
4. Proficient use of the English language. (See English language proficiency requirement section of the calendar for details on this requirement.) A final grade of C+ or better in English 12 (see Note), or a CPT (Composition Placement Test) score of 48 or better or successful completion of ESL (English as a Second Language) course level 80 English meets the English language proficiency requirement.
   1. Note: English 12 equivalent courses include English 12 First Peoples, English Literature 12, AP English, and IB English A (standard level or higher level).
   Willingness to undergo a security record check.

Recommended skills and attributes

1. Good communication and people skills.
2. Flexibility in work schedule and in assuming tasks.
3. Ability to work as a team member.
4. Ability to take initiative and assume responsibility.
5. Ability to work under pressure and stressful situations.
6. Knowledge of basic office skills.

When to apply

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis throughout the year. Qualified applicants are considered for the next intake in which there is space. See Continuous application process for more information.

How to apply

1. Fill out a UFV Application for Admission form (available at ufv.ca/admissions/admissions/apply).

2. Attach all required documentation and submit the completed application package to the Continuing Education department.

3. Pending seat availability, applicants who have provided complete applications will be contacted by telephone to arrange for an interview. Admission to this program is dependent on a successful interview with the program instructor.

Fees and additional costs

For current program fees, please refer to ufv.ca/dor.

Financial aid

Financial aid is available from a variety of sources. For more information, contact the Financial Aid and Awards office at either the Abbotsford or Chilliwack campus. There are also a variety of bursary applications available from the Financial Aid and Awards offices.

Student evaluation

Students will be evaluated for each course in the program on classroom participation, classroom assignments, study projects, practica, and by examination. Students must maintain a grade percentage of 85% and an attendance record of 90% in each course to participate in the practicum. Successful completion of both theory and practicum must be achieved to obtain the certificate.

Challenge policy

Students challenging components are required to pay the full tuition fee prior to examination. (Based on UFV's Course Challenge policy.)

Workload

In addition to classroom activities, students will be required to study and prepare some assignments outside of class for approximately three to six hours per week.

Program format

Classes are Monday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Fall semester.

For more information

Contact Continuing Education at 604-851-6324, or 604-504-7441 local 6324, or toll-free (within Canada) 1-888-504-7441 local 4626, or continuingeducation@ufv.ca.