Program Overview
The University of New England's B.S. in Dental Hygiene Completion Program enhances the skills of dental hygiene associates, preparing them for advanced roles in clinical practice, research, education, and administration. Through a one-year, 30-credit program, students gain advanced knowledge, leadership abilities, and practical experience through an internship. Graduates are equipped for diverse career opportunities in the dental hygiene field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The B.S. in Dental Hygiene Completion Program at the University of New England is designed for individuals who already hold an associate degree in dental hygiene and are looking to enhance their skills and expand their career opportunities. The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of dental hygiene practices and prepares them for a wide range of roles in the healthcare field, including clinical practice, research, education, and administration.
Objectives:
- Provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in dental hygiene
- Prepare students for a variety of career opportunities in the dental hygiene field
- Foster a collaborative learning environment that promotes interprofessional communication and teamwork
- Develop students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
Program Description:
The B.S. in Dental Hygiene Completion Program is a 30-credit program that can be completed in one year of full-time study. The program includes coursework in ethics, leadership, research methods, and current concepts in dental hygiene. Students also complete an internship in a clinical or research setting.
Outline:
Courses:
- Ethics for Interprofessional Practice (IHS 310)
- Leadership (DEN 422)
- Internship/Experiential Learning (DEN 490)
- Current Concepts in Dental Hygiene (DEN 406)
- Professional Electives (300 level or higher)
Course Descriptions:
- Ethics for Interprofessional Practice (IHS 310): This course explores the ethical principles and values that guide interprofessional practice in healthcare. Students will learn how to identify and address ethical dilemmas, and how to work effectively with other healthcare professionals to provide patient-centered care.
- Leadership (DEN 422): This course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to be effective leaders in the dental hygiene profession. Students will learn about different leadership styles, how to motivate and inspire others, and how to create a positive and productive work environment.
- Internship/Experiential Learning (DEN 490): This course provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a clinical or research setting. Students will work with experienced dental hygiene professionals to provide patient care, conduct research, and develop their professional skills.
- Current Concepts in Dental Hygiene (DEN 406): This course provides students with an overview of the latest trends and developments in dental hygiene. Students will learn about new technologies, treatment modalities, and research findings that are shaping the profession.
- Professional Electives (300 level or higher): Students will select six credits of professional electives to complement their coursework and prepare for their desired career path.
Assessment:
Students in the B.S. in Dental Hygiene Completion Program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Written exams
- Oral presentations
- Clinical skills assessments
- Research projects
- Internships
Teaching:
The B.S. in Dental Hygiene Completion Program is taught by a team of experienced dental hygiene professionals and educators. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Simulations
- Clinical rotations
- Research projects
Careers:
Graduates of the B.S. in Dental Hygiene Completion Program are prepared for a wide range of careers in the dental hygiene field, including:
- Clinical dental hygienists
- Dental hygiene educators
- Dental hygiene researchers
- Dental hygiene administrators
- Public health dental hygienists