Dental Hygiene BS Completion Program

Turn Smiles Into Opportunities

Dental hygienists are amongst the most in-demand professionals in the United States. An aging population, expanded access to health and dental insurance, and new research on the importance of oral health has driven this demand, and it shows no signs of slowing any time soon.

Dental Hygiene Assocation to Bachelor's Completion Degree

The baccalaureate program in dental hygiene is for dental hygienists with an associate degree in dental hygiene who want to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene. Students engage in self-directed learning activities, advance their knowledge in the areas of critical thinking, exhibit values for lifelong learning, synthesize evidence based information and develop leadership skills. Graduates from the program will be prepared with advanced research, communication, educational leadership, practice management and dental hygiene knowledge.

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Program Details

Career Opportunities

According to the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA), the hygienist can work in a variety of settings which may include: health maintenance organization or long-term care facility, military base, school system, dental supply company, insurance company, university or research center, veterinary center, government agency or another country. There is a growing need for hygienists to fulfill the roles of educators, advocates, administrators, and behavioral scientists for the profession to continue to be successful. For dental hygienists, the baccalaureate degree is important for adapting and advancing professionally.

Program Goals

1. The program will provide students with knowledge to develop skills in critical thinking and evidenced based research while fostering lifelong learning.
2. The program will support the American Dental Hygienists' Association initiative of advancing the profession by providing leadership opportunities and advanced educational degrees.
3. The program will advance student knowledge toward varied career opportunities in dental hygiene through a diverse curriculum.
4. The program will prepare students to support research activities impacting oral and systemic health leading to the discovery of new knowledge of contemporary dental hygiene theory and practice.
5. The program will prepare students to address the challenges of advancing the dental hygiene profession and access to dental care.

Program Outcomes

Building upon the dental hygiene competencies of ethics / values / skills, health promotion, community, patient / client care and professional growth and development, students who complete the Bachelor of Science degree in dental hygiene will be able to:

1. Analyze research for evidence-based practice and theory as applied to the Dental Hygiene profession.
2. Demonstrate critical thinking and lifelong learning through collaborative partnerships which promote the advancement of the Dental Hygiene profession.
3. Assist and participate in the coordination of oral health care services for diverse populations throughout all levels of the lifespan.
4. Actively engage in leadership roles found in education, government, public health, management and the associations which support the advancement of the Dental Hygiene profession.
5. Utilize evidence based practice and theory when engaged in activities toward the advancement of the Dental Hygiene Profession.