Program Cost Breakdown
The total cost of the program is $5,500, which includes tuition, SIMTICS access, technology fees, and the DANB Radiation Health & Safety (RHS) exam fee. Payments may be made by credit card or check.
For the cohort beginning September 21, 2026, the cost of attendance is as follows:
- Academic Program Fee: $4,861
- SIMTICS: $69
- Technology/Learning Management Software Fee: $300
- DANB Radiation Health & Safety Exam Fee: $270
Total Program Cost: $5,500
Payment Options
Pay in Full: Participants may choose to pay the full program fee by August 28, 2026.
Payment Plan: For those who prefer to spread payments over time, we offer a structured installment plan.
Payment schedule included below:
- August 28, 2026 — $1,100
- September 28, 2026 — $880
- October 28, 2026 — $880
- November 28, 2026 — $880
- December 28, 2026 — $880
- January 28, 2027 — $880
Clinical Site Sponsorship
Some trainees are able to secure sponsorship from a clinical site to help cover program costs. While this may be a current employer, it can also be a dental office that is interested in training and hiring new dental assistants. If you are interested in pursuing sponsorship, consider reaching out to local dental offices that are actively hiring or looking for additional staff. An in-person visit is often more effective than email alone, as it gives you the opportunity to introduce yourself, discuss your career goals, and explain your interest in the program. In many cases, a dental office may agree to cover some or all of the program fees in exchange for a work commitment following successful completion of the program, often for a period of approximately one year. Any sponsorship arrangement is negotiated directly between the trainee and the sponsoring clinical site.
The University of Pittsburgh Dental Assistant Training Program is not a party to these agreements and does not establish or enforce sponsorship terms.
Sallie Mae Career Training Loan
We offer a financing option through Sallie Mae's Career Training Loan program. Interested applicants may contact Sallie Mae directly or reach out to our team at DAprogram@pitt.edu for additional information regarding eligibility and the application process.
PA CareerLink Funding
We work closely with PA CareerLink to help eligible trainees access workforce funding opportunities.
Please note: that the funding approval process can take up to two months and must be completed prior to the start of the program. If you are interested in pursuing CareerLink funding, we encourage you to contact our team as soon as possible after deciding to enroll.
Refund Policy
Participants who pay the program fee in full may be eligible for a 50% refund if they withdraw from the program on or before October 12, 2026. Participants enrolled in the payment plan option are not eligible for refunds of fees already paid.
Additional Information
Federal financial aid is not currently accepted for this program.
For additional information or questions please reach out to daprogram@pitt.edu.
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