Dental Hygiene

Program Student Learning Outcomes

At the end of the program, the graduate will be able to:

1. Integrate and apply basic science, dental science and dental hygiene knowledge and skills.
2. Recognize sources of information and information gathering techniques that enable them to seek and obtain information when needed.
3. Apply computer skills in order to find information, take intra- oral photographs, take digital radiographs, obtain periodontal charting information, and manage patient records.
4. Provide humane and compassionate care to all patients without discrimination as outlined in the Patient’s Bill of Rights.
5. Provide dental hygiene care utilizing the dental hygiene process of assessment, dental hygiene diagnosis, treatment planning, implementation and evaluation.
6. Present preventative educational programs in various settings.

Applicants must satisfy the following prerequisites:

• High school college preparatory course diploma or equivalent
• Biology course with lab (high school) – Grade “C” or better
• Chemistry course with lab (high school) – Grade “C” or better
• Placement into college-level English and mathematics courses based on the results of the College Placement Test (or other approved test)
• Minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.2 for college transfer applicants. It is recommended that the applicant take as many core courses as possible included in the hygiene curriculum prior to applying.
• SAT scores of Math 500, Reading 500 (minimum). Applicants who have college experience do not have to submit SAT scores.

After completion of the above prerequisites, an application for admission to the Dental Hygiene program should be submitted to the Office of Admissions and Records and Registration Services. The following will then occur:

• There will be an academic review of transcripts by the director of dental programs.
• Competitive candidates will meet with the director of dental programs.
• Candidates will receive written notification of the admissions committee decision.
• A physical exam, various immunizations, and proof of health insurance will be required prior to the beginning of class. The dental department has an extensive exposure control/infectious disease policy, which is available upon request.
• The Office of Admissions will accept applications and documentation for the Dental Hygiene Program ONLY between September 1st and February 1st. A class is accepted once a year.
• All students must earn a grade of “C” or better in all DHY courses in order to graduate.