The tenure of dental assistant programs is usually 1 year or less and the curriculum includes relevant theoretical instruction gained by attending classroom lectures and laboratory course work along with pre-clinical instructions in dental assisting skills. Practical experience is gained in dental clinics, dental offices and dental schools with practical work that is interspersed during the course. Successful completion of the course includes passing the examination which results in the award of a certificate or diploma. There are also two year programs offered by community and junior colleges that lead to the awarding of a relevant associate dental assistant degree. Entry in to such programs requires  the minimum academic level of a high school diploma or equivalent.