Expanded functions dental auxiliary (EFDA)
Prepare for a career as an advanced dental professional working in private dental offices, dental clinics and public health facilities.
Program at a glance
DEGREE TYPE
Associate of Science
PROGRAM FORMAT
In person
LENGTH (FULL TIME)
5-semester degree
2-semester certificate
CAREER COMMUNITY
Program overview
Take your dental skills to the next level.
Through Stark State’s expanded functions dental auxiliary (EFDA) program, you will learn expanded restorative procedures, including metallic, non-metallic and sealants.
Program details
To qualify for Stark State’s EFDA program, you must currently be:
- Commission on Ohio Dental Assistant Certification (CODA) dental assistant.
- Nationally certified through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certified dental assistant (CDA).
- American Medical Technologist (AMT) registered dental assistant (RDA).
- Registered dental hygienist (RDH).
- Or a dental hygiene student who has completed a minimum of one year in an ADA-accredited degree program.
After two semesters and completion of major courses, you’ll earn a certificate and can sit for the Ohio EFDA examination. You also can earn an associate of science degree in expanded functions dental auxiliary technology with additional coursework during three more semesters.
Enrollment in Stark State’s EFDA program is limited. Admission is offered to eligible applicants on a space available basis. The EFDA program requires a separate application; admission to the College does not automatically mean acceptance into the EFDA program.
Review the program checklist and application before applying to Stark State’s EFDA program.
Careers and outcomes
EFDA student outcomes
| Cohort enrollment & completion/term & year | FA2019-SP2020 | SP2020-SU2020 | FA2020-SP2021 | SP2021-SU2021 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Students enrolled* | 16 | 17 | 15 | 14 |
| Students completed | 16 | 15 | 12 | 14 |
| Cohort pass rate | 100% | 88% | 80% | 86% |
*Students enrolled in EFDA program technical courses
FAQs
You can work as an expanded function dental auxiliary (EFDAs) in Ohio after passing the EFDA board exam. You may choose to continue working in your current office, or you could seek employment in private practices, group practices, or specialty offices.
Employment prospects are strong. Most EFDA graduates find work quickly, and many receive expanded responsibilities and higher wages in their current dental practices.
Most graduates stay in their current dental offices but are qualified to work in any dental practice throughout Ohio once credentialed.
The short-term certificate requires 21 credit hours. The Associate of Science degree requires 62–63 credit hours.
The certificate track takes two semesters. The associate degree typically takes five semesters as a full-time student.
Yes. The EFDA program is designed for working dental professionals. Classes meet one day a week during daytime hours.
The EFDA program offers flexibility. You can complete the CEC while working and may continue full- or part-time to complete the associate degree.
Yes. Financial aid is available for eligible students. Scholarships are also offered. Visit Paying for College to learn about your options.
Many general education courses transfer. EFDA technical courses are evaluated by the receiving institution. You may apply credits toward continued education.
Yes. You must already hold a CDA, RDA or RDH credential. One year of chairside experience also counts toward program eligibility.
Related programs
Looking for more career options? Check out these other programs.
Lowest tuition around
Put your money toward your goals – not debt.
Stark State’s tuition costs up to 83% less than other area colleges and universities. Along with financial aid and scholarship opportunities, you gain the most value for your education without sacrificing quality.
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Jordan Kalaitsides, MBA, EFDA, CDA
EFDA Program Coordinator
330-494-6170 ext. 4384
Take the next step
Whether you’re just starting out, making your college comeback or looking for a change, you belong at Stark State.