Surgical Tech, Dental Assisting reaccredited
TRAVERSE CITY — Northwestern Michigan College is proud to announce the reaccreditation of two of its highly respected health care programs: Surgical Technology, which offers an associate degree, and Dental Assisting, which offers an associate degree and certificate.
Surgical Technology
The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) awarded continuing accreditation to NMC's Surgical Technology program on September 20, 2024. This prestigious recognition highlights the program's ongoing commitment to meeting the highest standards in education for surgical technologists.
The next comprehensive evaluation of the Surgical Technology program by the Florida-based CAAHEP is scheduled for 2034.
Dental Assisting
Based on a December 2023 site visit, the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) granted NMC's Dental Assisting program the accreditation status of "approval without reporting requirements" at its August 8, 2024 meeting. This designation signifies that the program meets all accreditation standards and will not require additional reporting until its next site visit in 2030.
Additionally, the Chicago-based CODA approved NMC's two program changes intended to benefit students:
- Pathway II option: Launching in spring 2025, this option allows NMC to recruit local Certified Dental Assistants (CDAs) who are currently practicing in dental offices, providing them with an opportunity to further their education.
- Increased internship credits: The Dental Assistant Internship course will increase from five to six credits beginning May 2025. This adjustment ensures students meet financial aid requirements for their summer internship experience.
NMC was notified of the reaccreditation for both programs in September. Both Surgical Technology and Dental Assisting programs offer students a solid foundation for successful careers in these in-demand healthcare fields. A comprehensive Nursing program rounds out NMC’s allied health offerings. With a shared commitment to quality education and continuous improvement, these programs are well-positioned to prepare future generations of skilled healthcare professionals for northwest Michigan communities.
Release date: October 9, 2024
For more information:
Cari Noga
NMC Communications Director
(231) 392-1800 (mobile - call or text)
cnoga@nmc.edu