Top Dental Assistant Schools in Merced, California

Updated January 11, 2026 Table of Contents

Dental assistant programs in Merced, California can help you start a career in about two years. Look for schools offering classroom learning, hands-on labs, and clinical rotations with local dental offices.

California Paralegal Salary Snapshot

California
California Median Pay $72,960$35.08 per hour National median: $61,010($29.33/hr)
Employment 45,740BLS OEWS, May 2024

Dental Assistant Schools in Merced

#1

Milan Institute-Merced

Merced, CA 1.2 miles away

Located in Merced, CA Milan Institute-Merced is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Barbering, Beauty Cosmetology, and Cosmetologist.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#2

Stellar Career College

Modesto, CA 40.9 miles away

Located in Modesto, CA Stellar Career College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Accounting Technology, Bookkeeper, and Dental Assistant. The campus serves roughly 50 learners.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#3

San Joaquin Valley College-Fresno

Fresno, CA 50.4 miles away

Located in Fresno, CA San Joaquin Valley College-Fresno is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Corrections, Dental Assistant, and Medical Assistant.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#4

UEI College-Fresno

Fresno, CA 52.4 miles away

Located in Fresno, CA UEI College-Fresno is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Dental Assistant, HVAC Technician, and HVAC Technician.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

#5

Fresno City College

Fresno, CA 52.8 miles away

Located in Fresno, CA Fresno City College is a institution focused on career-ready training. Signature programs include Auto Body and Collision Repair, Automotive Technician, and Automotive Technology.

Tuition Contact school for pricing
Contact

Source:IPEDSScorecardACCSC

Certification and Licensing in California

  • Check with the California Board of Dentistry for updated requirements on X-ray and expanded function certification.
  • Track your clinical hours to meet on-the-job experience requirements.
  • Maintain valid CPR/BLS, OSHA, and HIPAA certifications as required by most dental offices.

Questions to Ask Local Schools

  • What percentage of graduates pass certification exams?
  • Do externships or clinical rotations partner with local dental offices?
  • Are flexible class options available for working students?
  • What costs are included in tuition versus separate fees?

California Paralegal Salary & Job Outlook

BLS OEWS, May 2024

California median pay $72,960$35.08 per hour
Employment 45,740

Average pay

$76,920per year $36.98 per hour

Median pay

$72,960per year $35.08 per hour

Next Steps