HLT35021 | CRICOS: 108108B

Certificate III in Dental Assisting

Kick start your oral health care career with this entry-level course that will qualify you to work as a dental assistant.

Apply now

STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Sunshine Coast North Queensland

WAYS TO STUDY On campus Online Apprenticeships and traineeships International

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 19 May 2025 Duration: up to 1 year - Greater Brisbane View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Concession

$440 - $2,725

Subsidised

$1,255 - $3,540

Full Fee

$5,050 - $7,335

International

$9,200

Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Start your career in oral health care with this entry-level course. This qualification is perfect for people looking to work as a dental assistant in a clinic. According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service the number of people working as dental assistants grew very strongly over the past five years and this is expected to continue to grow in the future. This popular rewarding occupation is expected to create around 16,000 job openings over the next five years.

This qualification will provide you with the skills to assist with dental radiography, sterilise equipment, assist with oral healthcare procedures, and use office software. Our highly-experienced team of industry professionals will give you the support and one-on-one guidance you need to successfully transition into the health sector.

Successful completion of this course will qualify you to work as a dental assistant in a clinical environment. You will also get the foundation skills needed to undertake further study in the field.

What can I do?

Dental Assistant

Course outcome:

HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting

Study your way

We know that life is busy, that's why our courses are designed to be flexible. Our mixed-mode delivery means you can complete components of your study online and our 'round-the-clock support services means you're never alone. Studiosity is an online after hours tutoring service focusing on writing, research and referencing, as well as subject-specific questions.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 2 elective units from the list below. You will also be required to undertake 350 hours of vocational placement in an approved setting.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
CHCCOM005

Communicate and work in health or community services

UNIT CODE :
CHCCOM005

Unit description :

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, management and other industry providers.
UNIT NAME
Communicate and work in health or community services

UNIT CODE
CHCDIV001

Work with diverse people

UNIT CODE :
CHCDIV001

Unit description :

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to work respectfully with people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
UNIT NAME
Work with diverse people

UNIT CODE
HLTDEN015

Prepare for and assist with dental procedures

UNIT CODE :
HLTDEN015

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to prepare the dental surgery including equipment, instruments and materials, for dental procedures and assist the practitioner during dental procedures.
UNIT NAME
Prepare for and assist with dental procedures

UNIT CODE
HLTDEN016

Assist with dental radiography

UNIT CODE :
HLTDEN016

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to prepare patients for dental radiography. It also describes the skills and knowledge to process and mount conventional dental radiographs.
UNIT NAME
Assist with dental radiography

UNIT CODE
HLTDEN017

Assist with administration in dental practice

UNIT CODE :
HLTDEN017

Unit description :
This unit of competency describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required for a dental assistant to assist the practitioner by managing appointments to suit the patient and the organisation, recording and reconciling payments, and maintaining patient records.
UNIT NAME
Assist with administration in dental practice

UNIT CODE
HLTINF006

Apply basic principles and practices of infection prevention and control

UNIT CODE :
HLTINF006

Unit description :
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to apply basic infection prevention and control principles in work settings including implementing standard and transmission-based precautions and responding to risks.
UNIT NAME
Apply basic principles and practices of infection prevention and control

UNIT CODE
HLTINF002

Process reusable medical devices and equipment

UNIT CODE :
HLTINF002

Unit description :

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to clean, sterilise and package reusable medical devices and equipment.
UNIT NAME
Process reusable medical devices and equipment

UNIT CODE
HLTWHS001

Participate in workplace health and safety

UNIT CODE :
HLTWHS001

Unit description :

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required for workers to participate in safe work practices to ensure their own health and safety, and that of others. The unit applies to all workers who require knowledge of workplace health and safety (WHS) to carry out their own work, either under direct supervision or with some individual responsibility.
UNIT NAME
Participate in workplace health and safety

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
BSBTEC201

Use business software applications

UNIT CODE :
BSBTEC201

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to select and use software and organise electronic information and data.
UNIT NAME
Use business software applications

UNIT CODE
HLTAID011

Provide First Aid

UNIT CODE :
HLTAID011

Unit description :
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to provide a first aid response to a casualty in line with first aid guidelines determined by the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) and other Australian national peak clinical bodies. The unit applies to all persons who may be required to provide a first aid response in a range of situations, including community and workplace settings.
UNIT NAME
Provide First Aid

UNIT CODE
HLTSTE003

Sterilise loads

UNIT CODE :
HLTSTE003

Unit description :

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to follow correct procedures to select and operate sterilisation equipment, interpret steriliser function and parameters in the provision of sterilised reusable medical devices, appropriately load items for sterilisation, and to release sterilised items for distribution. This competency unit does not deal with ethylene oxide sterilisation.
UNIT NAME
Sterilise loads

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On campus with some online

You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On campus with some online	14 Jul 2025	9 months	Full time 4 days per week	Concession: $2,725 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $3,540 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $7,335 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
South Bank On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 9 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 4 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $2,725 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $3,540 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $7,335 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

Online self-directed

All of your study will be done online and you can work through your studies at your own pace. You can access your learning materials 24/7 through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Online self-directed	Anytime	up to 1 year - All Queensland Regions excluding Greater Brisbane	Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled	Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Online self-directed Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 100% On Campus Time 0% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. Anytime The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. up to 1 year - All Queensland Regions excluding Greater Brisbane The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Self-paced Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Online self-directed	19 May 2025	up to 1 year - Greater Brisbane	Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled	Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Online self-directed Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 100% On Campus Time 0% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 19 May 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. up to 1 year - Greater Brisbane The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Self-paced Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Online self-directed	21 Jul 2025	up to 1 year - Greater Brisbane	Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled	Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Online self-directed Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 100% On Campus Time 0% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 21 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. up to 1 year - Greater Brisbane The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Self-paced Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Online self-directed	22 Sep 2025	up to 1 year - Greater Brisbane	Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled	Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Online self-directed Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 100% On Campus Time 0% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 22 Sep 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. up to 1 year - Greater Brisbane The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Self-paced Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Online self-directed	17 Nov 2025	up to 1 year - Greater Brisbane	Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled	Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Online self-directed Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 100% On Campus Time 0% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 17 Nov 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. up to 1 year - Greater Brisbane The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Existing worker: Workplace assessment to be scheduled The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $440 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,255 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $5,050 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Self-paced Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

CAMPUS	APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS	DELIVERY MODE
South Bank	Traineeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online

CAMPUS	APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS	DELIVERY MODE
Mooloolaba	Traineeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online

CAMPUS	APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS	DELIVERY MODE
Townsville - Pimlico	Traineeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online
Cairns	Traineeship	WORKPLACE Workplace	DROP IN DAYS Drop in days	BLOCK TRAINING Block training	DAY RELEASE Day release	MOBILE VAN Mobile van	Online Online

Choose your study location

On campus with some online

You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
South Bank	On campus with some online	14 Jul 2025	9 months	Full time 4 days per week	International: $9,200 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more More Apply
South Bank On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 14 Jul 2025 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 9 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 4 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY International: $9,200 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
South Bank	On campus with some online	27 Jan 2026	9 months	Full time 4 days per week	International: $9,200 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more More Apply
South Bank On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 9 months The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 4 days per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY International: $9,200 This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus and vocational placement The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

You will be able to access your learning materials 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from the first day of your study period for the relevant units of competency. You must be enrolled to access your learning materials.

Online self-directed study allows you to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing when and where you study. Direct your own learning with all your study materials online, allowing you to manage your own workload and fit your studies around your lifestyle. Learn more

Online virtual classroom study allows you to enjoy the freedom of choosing where you study, with no on-campus commitments. Virtual classes are delivered online, to a scheduled timetable, allowing you to interact with fellow students and high-quality educators from the comfort of a location that best suits you. You will be expected to undertake additional self-directed study in order to complete the course requirements. Learn more

Online with on campus practical allows you to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of choosing when and where you study to complete the online component of your course followed up by a scheduled practical component on campus.

At TAFE Queensland, we understand that employers need options and flexibility in employee training. We are committed to delivering the flexible training plans you need to get the job done. Choose from workplace training, block training, drop in days, mobile training, day release, online or a mix of all these options. Learn more

You must already be employed to enrol as an apprentice or trainee with TAFE Queensland. Speak to your employer about choosing TAFE Queensland as your Supervising Registered Training Organisation (SRTO).

Costs:

Eligible apprentices and trainees that meet the Queensland state funding requirements will be charged a set fee per nominal hour. These fees are calculated at a regulated rate of $1.60 per nominal hour. Concession rates apply for students who hold a current Health Care Card or who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

Non-funded apprentices and trainees will be charged a fee for service cost. These will be confirmed prior to the commencement of training.
Information regarding costs will be outlined on the agreed training plan, which will be provided to the employer and apprentice or trainee at time of induction.

As an international student at TAFE Queensland you will gain practical, hands-on experience in our purpose-built classrooms, laboratories and workshops with the same tools and equipment used in industry.

Studying with TAFE Queensland, an internationally recognised education provider, will give you the skills and knowledge to launch your career.

No matter where you are in your study journey, our team of international student support advisors can help you settle into life in Australia and provide support and assistance to help you throughout your studies.

As an international student you’ll study face-to-face in a classroom with other international and Australian students at one of our campus locations across Queensland, while enjoying the unique Australian landscape, culture, and lifestyle

You will be expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements. The number of hours of personal study required is dependent on your existing knowledge, skills and language needs.

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Certificate III in Dental Assisting (HLT35021)

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Certificate III in Dental Assisting

COURSE CODE: HLT35021

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help.

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more

Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

International student payment

Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Convera Global Pay for Students or the Flywire Payment Portal. Convera and Flywire both allow you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays.
Learn more

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Selection criteria

Greater Brisbane and North Queensland applicants only - Basic Key Skills Builder (BKSB) Test Requirements
All applicants are required to complete a Basic Key Skills Builder (BKSB) Test prior to enrolment into this course. More information about the BKSB can be found via the TAFE Queensland website - Basic Key Skills Builder page. Please contact Faculty Administration to arrange a time to complete your BKSB assessment in person or via Microsoft Teams.

Existing worker delivery / Traineeship
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to existing workers (online) delivery and traineeship only:

If your chosen study mode is workplace delivery, it is a requirement that you are currently working in the Dental industry (to be eligible to complete the external program - students must be working a minimum of 15 hours per week as a Dental Assistant)

Traineeship pathway
To study a traineeship program you must be indentured as a trainee with your employer.

Employers need to be able to provide necessary human and physical resources to qualify for a trainee.

Find out more on how to become an apprentice or trainee

Domestic and International face to face delivery
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to face to face delivery students:

Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 10 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12
Due to workplace Health and Safety, all participants need to have completed a course of Hepatitis B vaccinations before commencement of vocational placement, which occurs in approximately week 14 of the program. A course of injections takes approximately 6 months to complete and if applicants have not had Hep B vaccinations, they must begin the process and have had at least 2 of the 3 required injections prior to going to vocational placement. You will be required to provide a copy of your serology report as evidence of sero-conversion to HepB surface antigen (anti-HBsAg). Please contact your GP to arrange a referral for a blood test.

International students
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to International students:

English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 6.0 (no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent - For a list of all English Language tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International.
Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 10 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12
Due to workplace Health and Safety, all participants need to have completed a course of Hepatitis B vaccinations before commencement of vocational placement, which occurs in approximately week 14 of the program. A course of injections takes approximately 6 months to complete and if applicants have not had Hep B vaccinations, they must begin the process and have had at least 2 of the 3 required injections prior to going to vocational placement. You will be required to provide a copy of your serology report as evidence of sero-conversion to HepB surface antigen (anti-HBsAg). Please contact your GP to arrange a referral for a blood test

Applicants should be a minimum of 17 years of age and turning 18 during the first year of study with TAFE Queensland. International students who are under 18 years of age and are applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Department of Home Affairs to have adequate welfare arrangements in place.

Resources required

It is recommended that you have access to a reliable internet connection to access TAFE Queensland's online learning system Connect, and a computer with up-to-date software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat Reader. This equipment and software is available for use at all TAFE Queensland locations.

Placement

If you are not currently employed or volunteering in industry, during your course you will be required to complete vocational placement so you can start practising your new skills in a real-world environment. You’ll be required to work shifts determined by your placement provider, and these can include early mornings or late nights, any day of the week, including public holidays. TAFE Queensland may be able to assist in arranging suitable placements.

Completing placement is compulsory, and you will be expected to manage family and work commitments in order to complete your shifts. You are required to complete 350 hours of placement to satisfy this component of your qualification.

Vaccination requirements
Vaccinations may be required by the owner or operator of the facility providing your placement.
These requirements will be provided to the student, prior to arrangements being made for the completion of vocational placement.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.

For International students

International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
Learn more

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees, available subsidies, and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more

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Full Time : 2 years

Next Start : 27 Jan 2026

Bachelor of Dental Prosthetics

Brush up your career opportunities with this specialised advanced-level course, and put a smile on people's faces every day as a dental prosthetist.

Careers

Registered Dental Prosthetist
Health Practitioner

Full Time : 3 years

Next Start : 27 Jan 2026

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Certificate III in Dental Assisting

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Study your way

Core units

Elective units

South Bank

South Bank

South Bank

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Certificate III in Dental Assisting

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

International student payment

Entry requirements

Selection criteria

Resources required

Placement

Assessment methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to apply

Direct application

For International students

Course disclaimer

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

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