Dental Hygiene

Dental Hygiene

Associate of Applied Science Degree

120 credits (plus 55 credits of prerequisites)

This program prepares the student for employment as a dental hygienist including the expanded duties allowed by Washington State Law. This program has received accreditation status from the Commission on Dental Accreditation which allows students, upon graduation, to take the National Board Examination and the clinical licensing examination in the state where she or he plans to practice. Clinical experience is provided at the Lake Washington Technical College's dental clinic under the supervision of licensed dentists and licensed dental hygienists. Additional clinical experience occurs in a variety of off-campus settings located in the greater Seattle area.

There is a formal admissions process for entry into this program. The curriculum in the Dental Hygiene program consists of seven terms, including a six-week summer term of full-time professional and clinical education preceded by two terms of prerequisite courses. The prerequisite science courses must be at least seven years current upon program entry; be measured by a proficiency examination; or be waived by special petition to the Dental Hygiene Director. The dental hygiene courses must be taken successively.

Dental Hygiene program graduates will:

• be prepared to obtain an entry-level position in their field
• be prepared to complete all licensing exams required to practice in Washington State
• receive training and demonstrate learning in Critical Thinking, Communication, Teamwork, Global and Cultural Awareness, and Information and Technical Literacy skills

It is the student's responsibility to discuss sequencing and work out their individual schedule with a counselor or adviser. Any developmental coursework a student may be required to complete may increase the program length.

Admission Dates: fall, by special admissions

Prerequisites

Program Requirements