What can I do with a dental hygiene certificate/degree?
While most dental hygienists find employment in general dental practices, opportunities for employment also exist in specialty practices such as periodontics or pediatric dentistry. Hygienists may be employed to provide dental hygiene services for patients in hospitals, nursing homes and public health clinics.
Graduates of DVC’s two-year program must also complete the requirements for the associate in science degree before taking the licensure examinations unless they already hold this or a higher degree. See a counselor for specifics.
With additional education, dental hygienists can choose to pursue a teaching career in a dental school or a dental hygiene education program. Research careers, office management, business administration and clinical practice careers, in school or public health programs, also generally require additional education.
Many university-based dental hygiene programs offer baccalaureate and master’s degrees. DVC’s courses are transferable to most of these programs.
When are classes offered?
The required dental hygiene program courses are taught only in the day and in sequence, however some of the prerequisites and general education courses may be taken in the evening or at an alternate location.
Are there any additional costs associated with the program?
Expenses for the two-year dental hygiene program are estimated at $8,000. Two thirds of these costs are incurred during the first year.
How do I apply for the program?
There are several program prerequisites including college courses in microbiology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, organic and biochemistry, nutrition and English composition and reading. Enrollment is limited due to space available. Qualified applicants are selected by mid-April to early May.
For program information or requirements go to: www.dvc.edu/programs
