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Take the next step towards your career in dental assisting today! Apply to become a student at Risio Institute.
Program Breakdown
We’re here to set you up for success. Find everything you’ll need to start your journey with us below.
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What Do I Need to Apply
CPR Verification
CPR helps you stay prepared for emergencies and improves workplace safety. You’ll need to submit a copy of your CPR certificate as part of the application process.
Immunization Records
Being properly immunized reduces your risk of catching or spreading an infectious disease. For a full list of required immunizations, check out our FAQ.
Criminal Record Check
Dental assistants who serve the public are required to successfully complete a criminal record check. You’ll need to submit a copy of this document to us to complete your application.
Alumni Satisfaction
Risio graduates are busy working in dynamic practices throughout Canada and beyond. Learn what our alumni have to say about their experience with us.
To preserve their authenticity, the following testimonials have not been edited:
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the program cost?
Application Fee: $45
Tuition Fee: $12,500 total—includes clinical modules
A deposit of $300 is required to hold your place in the Program after you have been formally accepted; full remaining Term 1 payment is required by day one of the Program.
The total fee of $12,500 will be divided between Term 1 and Term 2:
- Term 1 fee: $7,500
- Term 2 fee: $5,000
- Textbooks: approx. $275
- Approximate professional dues & licensing fees in the student’s jurisdiction: $400
- NDAEB Written Exam: $700
- Approximate fee for proctored exams administered by Examity Online Proctoring: $180
I love the program but can’t afford it. Are there alternatives?
The Canada-Alberta Job grant is a training opportunity that may result in an employer receiving up to $10,000 to assist with training an employee.
Find more information on this program at:
What are the prerequisites and how can I apply?
Students may apply by completing an online application form and providing their high school transcripts:
- English 30-1 (minimum 60%) or English 30-2 (minimum 70%)
- One of either Science 30, Chemistry 30, or Biology 30 (minimum 60% required)
Students may apply as a mature-status student (without high school transcripts and the above designated grades). These students will be required to take an online assessment test prior to enrollment, consisting of a multiple-choice exam and short essay to assess reading and writing comprehension.
The Registrar will review the online application and requirements to determine eligibility in the Program. When eligibility into the Program is determined, the ‘Alberta Student Enrollment Contract for Licensed Vocational Training’ will be sent to the student to complete, along with the ‘Program Policy Manual’. This policy manual must be fully read prior to signing the student enrollment contract.
Once the completed enrolment contract has been received by the Risio Institute, students will be sent a formal acceptance letter into the Program. Students will then be asked to submit their payment of $300.00 to hold their spot in the Program.
Students are required to submit Immunization records for the recommended immunizations. See below for additional immunization information.
Students are required to submit the completed ‘Work Integrated Learning Form’ (signed by their sponsoring dentist) showing that they are employed or volunteering at a dental office for a minimum of 14 hours per week while enrolled in the Program.
Students are required to submit a Criminal Record Check/Vulnerable Sector Check.
Students are required to submit proof of CPR- Level HCA completion.
How can I get more information?
Send us an email. We would love to connect with you!
info@risioinstitute.com
How long will it take to complete the program?
The program takes approximately 2 years to complete.
How do I know this program is led by dental industry professionals?
Carey-Ann Thurlow is a Registered Dental Assistant with 20+ years in the dental industry. Carey completed her MBA in 2019 through the University of Roehampton, and began her PhD in June 2021. She is passionate about both the dental industry and business administration.
Carey-Ann previously chaired a successful dental assisting program in Calgary, while also facilitating in the program. Seeing her students achieve success is just one of Carey’s many missions!
Casey Sharp is a Registered Dental Assistant with 19+ years in the dental industry. Casey completed an eLearning certificate program through the University of Calgary to gain expertise in designing and creating online learning programs.
Casey worked alongside Carey-Ann at a successful dental assisting program in Calgary and facilitated students in both clinical and theoretical environments. Casey’s passion is witnessing the outcomes of the students in the program!
Instructors in the program are required to have a minimum of 5 years experience in the dental industry and must be Registered Dental Assistants. All theory instructors must also have completed the Adult Educator Certificate.
What are the recommended immunizations for the program?
According to the ADA&C, immunizations substantially reduce both the number of Dental Health Care Providers (DHCPs) susceptible to infectious diseases and the potential for disease transmission to other DHCPs and patients.
All DHCPs should be adequately immunized against:
- Hepatitis B
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella (mandated under Public Health Act)
- Varicella
- Influenza
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
Updates to the immunization recommendations for Health Care Workers may be accessed on the ADA&C website.
According to the ADA&C, Dental Health Care Providers are at an increased risk of acquiring hepatitis B in an occupational setting. Therefore, all DHCPs must be assessed regarding their immunity to hepatitis B and be provided hepatitis B immunization by their employer if required.
If I am unsuccessful on a test or evaluation, can I retake it?
Students will be given one rewrite per exam. Additional rewrites may be requested by writing to the Academic Advisor. All circumstances will be reviewed by the Directors on an individual basis. Students will be notified of the decision in writing.
Course extensions may be requested by writing to the Academic Advisor. All circumstances will be reviewed by the Directors on an individual basis. Students will be notified of the decision in writing.
What is the passing grade for each course?
In order to achieve a passing grade in each module, students must prove active engagement in the online learning activities (worth 20% of the grade) and achieve 75% on all final examinations. A rubric is provided to guide the student in their engagement and for assessment of the learning activities.
Is there an online instructor available to help me?
Yes! On-demand one-on-one tutoring is available through our online booking calendar for students who are interested.
Can I apply for a student loan?
Yes! The Institute received eligibility from Student Aid Alberta and Federal Student Aid for their students to apply for funding for the 2-year program! Interested applicants can email info@risiodental.com for more information on the student funding application process.
Is the Risio Institute Dental Assistant Distance Delivery Program Accredited?
Risio Institute is approved and licensed through the Private Career Colleges branch of Alberta Advanced Education. The Institute has applied to the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC) and our CDAC accreditation survey visit is scheduled to take place in June 2022!
Dental Assisting schools in Alberta must be Accredited, so this is a mandatory process that we are required to complete.
Are students who graduate from the Institute eligible to write the NDAEB written exam?
Yes! The Institute was successfully evaluated by the National Dental Assisting Examining Board and has been granted ‘written exam eligibility’ for all students who successfully complete the program.
Do I need to take the NDAEB Clinical Practice Evaluation upon completion of this program?
Until the Institute receives its Accredited Status, students are required to take the NDAEB CPE. The Institute will cover the cost of the initial CPE for students who are required to complete this step (prior to the Institute receiving Accredited Status) in order to become licensed dental assistants.
What are the benefits of online learning?
Online learning has numerous benefits. 7 of the most valuable are as follows:
- Access to coursework from anywhere at any time
- A balance of structure and freedom
- Easier time management
- The opportunity to train while working
- The ability to collaborate with students from different regions and backgrounds
- Instant feedback on tests
- The ability to build vital digital skills