Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene

Program Overview

The University of New England's Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program prepares students for careers in oral disease prevention. The program emphasizes teamwork, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of dental hygiene and the skills to deliver patient-centered care. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination to become licensed dental hygienists and can pursue a wide range of careers in the field.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (B.S.D.H.)
program at the University of New England (UNE) prepares students for rewarding careers in oral disease prevention. The program emphasizes teamwork across health care professions, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of dental hygiene and the skills to deliver patient-centered care.
• Objectives: The B.S.D.H.
program aims to equip students with:
• In-depth knowledge of dental hygiene principles and practices
• Hands-on clinical experience with real patients
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• A foundation in the liberal arts to enhance their professional development
• Program Description: The B.S.D.H.
program consists of four years of study. The first two years focus on foundational coursework in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences, providing a broad intellectual foundation. The final two years are dedicated to clinical studies, including hands-on experience in UNE's on-campus dental hygiene clinic. Graduates of the program will be eligible to sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) to become licensed dental hygienists.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Graduates of the B.S.D.H.
program can pursue a wide range of careers in dental hygiene, including:
• Clinical dental hygienist in private practices, clinics, and hospitals
• Public health dental hygienist in community health centers and schools
• Dental hygiene educator in academic institutions
• Sales and marketing representative for dental products and equipment
• Researcher in dental hygiene and related fields
• Opportunities and Outcomes: The demand for dental hygienists is expected to grow in the coming years due to increasing awareness of oral health and the aging population.
Graduates of the UNE B.S.D.H. program will be well-positioned to take advantage of these opportunities and enjoy a rewarding and fulfilling career in dental hygiene.