Code: AAS.HP.DENTL
The Dental Hygiene Program is designed to provide the student with both an academic and clinical education that prepares them for employment opportunities in the field of dental hygiene. The curriculum provides a variety of student activities and community outreach which enhances professional development and access to care. The program incorporates didactic, clinical, technological, and laboratory teaching approaches throughout the curriculum The program prepares the student to meet national, regional, and state licensing requirements and fulfills requirements for an Associate in Applied Sciences degree.
Program Length: 24 months;
Preadmission Test: Dental Hygiene Admissions Exam;
GPA for admissions eligibility: 2.50.
High school applicants must attain the age of 18 by the first day of the first semester of the program.
High School prerequisite courses: Chemistry, with lab; Biology, with lab; Algebra.
College requirements: BIO-109 , CHM-112 , and MAT-040 (if indicated by Placement Testing).
Application Deadline: February 1; Program Admits: Fall semester.
Eligible candidates are invited to sit for the Dental Hygiene Admissions Examination.
If a high school student is going to apply to the DHY program, they must complete CHM-112 , College Chemistry, before the application deadline, Feb 1. A junior or senior high school student, 16 years of age or older, may apply for the College Experience, with their guidance counselor’s or principal’s permission/endorsement. Then they can register for CHM-112 during the fall semester and successfully complete prior to the application deadline.
All core DHY courses MUST be taken in sequential order within the Bergen Community College Dental Hygiene Program. NO DHY courses may be transferred or taken at any other dental hygiene program. All core DHY courses are co-requisites for each other during every semester of the dental hygiene program.
The Dental Hygiene Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)
- Demonstrate the skills and knowledge to competently, legally, and ethically access, plan, implement, and evaluate dental hygiene services and promote access to care.
- Implement the skills and knowledge to provide dental hygiene services which meet professional standards and licensure eligibility.
- Formulate the skill set for lifelong learning and professional development.
- Support students to develop evidence-based decisions by acquiring, analyzing and documenting data utilizing current scientific research.
Career Pathways
| Clinical Practitioner |
Community Health Hygenist |
Educator |
| Administrator |
Sales Representative |
Researcher |
