Dental Hygiene
School of Health Sciences
Breuder Advanced Technology & Health Sciences Center, Rm. W209 · (570) 327-8007
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is the dental hygiene program?
A: 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.
Q: Are there pre-requisites for the dental hygiene program?
A: All applicants must take the placement examinations if they have not had prior college work, and must remove any deficiencies identified through their performance on those examinations prior to being ranked for admission into dental hygiene. Additionally, all applicants must have completed high school general chemistry within the last ten years, with a grade of "C" or higher, or completed a college-level chemistry course before being considered for the program.
Q: How does the selection process work?
A: All students are initially accepted 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, they are earning points to make them competitive for admission to dental hygiene. During the pre-dental hygiene phase, the student takes courses such as BIO 115, 125, 201, ENL 111, PSY 111, MTH 151 or higher, and other courses required in the major that are not dental hygiene (DEN) courses.
In January and June of each year, students are selected for the major and offered admission to the program. All students begin the program in August regardless of when the selection occurs. Those students with the highest number of points are offered admission to the program until 36 students are admitted.
It is important that the applicant spend time reviewing the point sheet for dental hygiene and, if necessary, meet with their academic advisor or the program director to seek clarification of the system. The point sheet is a valuable tool in selecting courses in order for the applicant to make himself/herself as competitive as possible.
Q: Can a transfer student be accepted into the dental hygiene program?
A: Each year, the program has accepted students who transfer to Penn College from other colleges. As a transfer student, the number of possible points earned is limited, and that is reflected on the point sheet. Penn College students are given preference.
Q: Who should I contact if I need additional information?
A: Further questions about the dental hygiene program, the selection process, or the point system can be directed to the Director of Dental Hygiene at (570) 320-8007. Questions about the status of your application, receipt of transcripts, or other parts of your application should be directed to the Admissions Office at (570) 327-4761.