FAQs

Graduates from MEC leave our program ready to pursue exciting careers in the dental field. Some students continue their education, while others start working right away. With your certificate, you could become a:

• Dental assistant: Support dental care providers during patient visits using the hands-on training you gain during our 11-week dental assisting program.
• Dental lab technician: Craft custom crowns, bridges, and other appliances by building a strong foundation in dental materials and lab techniques provided through our program.
• Dental office administrator: Keep the front office organized and efficient with the administrative skills and real-world exposure you receive through your experience in our office.
• Dental hygienist: Provide preventative care and cleanings after completing a hygiene degree program—an advanced path you may be inspired to pursue through your experience at MEC.
• Dentist: Lead patient care by diagnosing and treating oral health conditions—a rewarding career path you can begin exploring through hands-on techniques in our office.

We keep classes intentionally small so you can ask questions, get personalized help, and practice your skills as much as you need. Smaller classes mean more one-on-one time with instructors. Spots fill up fast, so do not wait to apply.

Classes are held on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

You will get a mix of lecture learning and hands-on lab time.

For upcoming course dates, click HERE.

Our dental assisting course lasts 11 weeks.

We believe that the best way to learn is by doing. That is why all students complete a minimum of 88 internship hours (eight hours per week) at a Morrison Dental Group office. You will shadow real dental care providers and get firsthand experience with patients, tools, and procedures. These moments often become the most valuable part of the course.

Yes, you can. While classes are held in Norge, we have multiple Morrison Dental Group offices across the area that accept interns. You may be able to complete your internship at a location that is more convenient for you. Just ask our Program Administrator for more details.

We do. MEC offers several financial options to help make tuition manageable.

Click HERE to explore your options or get in touch for one-on-one help.

You will attend class two evenings a week (Monday and Wednesday, four hours each).

In addition, you will complete eight internship hours per week.

Here is the full breakdown:

• Lecture: 44 hours.
• Lab: 44 hours.
• Internship: 88 hours.
• Total: 176 hours.

Yes, and yes. Many of our students work full-time, care for families, or juggle both while completing the program. It is challenging, but completely doable. We designed this course with real life in mind.

Our program is all-inclusive. Everything else is provided to support your learning, including:

• X-ray certification
• CPR certification
• Uniform
• Textbooks and workbook
• All lab and internship supplies
• Instructional fees and tuition
• Job placement assistance
• Hands-on internship experience
• Access to MEC’s private alumni networking group

Morrison Education Center was founded in 2012 by Dr. Robert Morrison, Alison Morrison, and Becky Morrison. They saw a growing need for accessible, short-term training for future dental assistants. Combining lecture, lab, and hands-on clinical work, MEC gives students real-world knowledge that translates into confidence and job readiness. From resume support to alumni networking, we are here to help even after you graduate.

To apply, you must:

• Be 18 years or older. Exceptions may be made for students who are set to complete their high school degree before turning 18, providing written consent from a parent or guardian.
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent (GED or homeschool completion).
• Submit official proof of graduation.

Once your documents are in, you will be ready to start your journey in dentistry.

If your requested class session is full, you will be given the option to join our wait list or reserve a seat in the next available class. Please see our Class Schedule for upcoming start dates.