Continuing Studies
www.ufv.ca/cs

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 wpm typing speed (attach copy of certification).

3. Introductory computer course or equivalent experience.

4. Personal interview.

5. Proficient use of the English language.

6. A CPT (Composition Placement Test) score of 48 or better or successful completion of ESL (English as a Second Language) course level 80 English may be required.

7. 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 (including typing).

How to apply

1. Fill out a UCFV Application for Admission form.

2. Fill out a Continuing Studies Dental Office Reception certificate program application form.

3. Attach your written statement (about 500 words) explaining why you would like to be a dental receptionist and what you expect from this program.

4. Attach all required documentation and submit the completed application package to the Continuing Studies department.

5. All applicants will be interviewed by the instructor. You will be contacted by telephone to arrange for an interview.

6. You may be required to take a composition placement test.

7. Once advised of acceptance into the program, you may register.

Fees

Program fee: $4500. Books and supplies will cost approximately $100.

Note: Fees and book prices are subject to change.

Upon acceptance, fees noted must be paid by the dates indicated. All fees which total more than $100 in a calendar year are fully tax deductible.

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, practicums, 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 for that section prior to examination. (Based on the UCFV official policy on course challenge.)

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., from September to January.

For more information

Contact Julie Laursen at 604-864-4626 or 604-792-0025, local 4626, or toll-free (within Canada) 1-888-504-7441, local 4626. Email: julie.laursen@ufv.ca.