Dental Hygiene

How long is the Dental Hygiene program?

The curriculum sequence is outlined over five semesters, or two academic years, plus one Summer session. However, it is more advisable and customary for students to complete the program requirements over six semesters, or three academic years. After reviewing the program, you will note that the credit load is high, and students are able to be more successful when they reduce the credit load and spread the workload over three years. 

Are there pre-requisites for the Dental Hygiene program?  

All applicants who have not previously completed college-level course work must take the placement examinations and remediate any deficiencies identified through their performance on those examinations prior to being considered for enrollment into the dental hygiene major. Additionally, all applicants must have completed high school general chemistry within the last 10 years, with a grade of "C" or higher, or completed a college-level chemistry course before being considered for the program.

How does the selection process work?

All students are initially enrolled as Pre-Dental Hygiene students. Typically, the student completes one year of general education courses as a Pre-Dental Hygiene student, and at the same time, earns points based on these course grades.

Following the fall and spring semesters, Pre-Dental Hygiene students are reviewed for acceptance into the major. Students with the highest number of points at the time of review are offered acceptance. All students who are offered acceptance begin the program in August, regardless of when the selection occurs. The class size is limited to 36 students.

It is important that you review the admission ranking sheet for Dental Hygiene and, if necessary, meet with your academic adviser or the program director to seek clarification of the system. The admission ranking sheet is a valuable tool in selecting courses to make yourself as competitive as possible.

How long can I remain in the Pre-Dental Hygiene major?

Students are limited to 24 attempted credits (taken at Penn College, excluding developmental courses) in a pre-health major. Following the fall and spring selections, students who have 24 attempted credits or more, and are not selected for acceptance into the major, are required to meet with the program director to discuss viable education options.

I am a transfer student. How are my credits evaluated in the admission ranking process?

Transfer student credits are evaluated in the same way as Penn College credits with one exception. Under the “Course Points” ranking area, transfer students receive 0.8 point per course with grades of “C” or higher; the same courses at Penn College (“C” or higher) earn 1 point.

Who should I contact if I need additional information?

Questions concerning the Dental Hygiene profession, the program, or the admission ranking process can be directed to the director of dental hygiene. Any questions about your general application should be directed to the Admissions Office.