Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BS)—Degree Completion

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BS)—Degree Completion program at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is designed for licensed dental hygienists looking to advance their education and career. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends advanced dental hygiene practices with essential business and leadership skills, making it ideal for those who aspire to take on more significant roles in the dental field.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students will build a strong foundation in advanced dental hygiene concepts and practices through courses such as "Advanced Clinical Dental Hygiene" and "Dental Hygiene Research Methods." These courses enhance clinical knowledge while introducing students to evidence-based practices, preparing students for the complexities of modern dental care.

In the second year, the focus shifts toward public health and the broader role of dental hygienists. Courses such as "Community Oral Health" and "Public Health Dentistry" equip students with the knowledge to promote oral health and understand community-based dental care. This year emphasizes the importance of prevention, education, and community engagement.

In the third year, students will develop management and professional skills through courses such as "Dental Hygiene Management" and "Healthcare Administration." These courses provide insight into practice management, organizational responsibilities, and the business aspects of working in modern dental settings.

In the final year, students will explore leadership and advanced clinical practices through courses such as "Leadership in Dental Hygiene" and "Advanced Periodontology." This year is designed to refine leadership abilities and advanced clinical knowledge, preparing graduates for roles that require both professional expertise and managerial skills.

Focus Areas: Advanced clinical practices, public health, leadership, and management.

Learning Outcomes: Enhanced clinical skills, leadership development, community health advocacy, and evidence-based practice application.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), ensuring it meets the highest educational standards in dental hygiene.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences consistently ranks highly in employability, with graduates well-prepared to enter the workforce and excel in their careers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS), the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BS)—Degree Completion program is designed to provide students with hands-on, practical skills that are essential for success in the field. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and advanced tools that enhance their learning experience. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, which is crucial for developing the competencies needed in dental hygiene practice.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:

- Clinical Practice: Students engage in clinical rotations where they work directly with patients, honing their skills in a supervised environment.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The program features modern dental hygiene labs equipped with the latest technology, including digital radiography and simulation tools.
- Internships: Students have the opportunity to participate in internships at various healthcare facilities, gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects allow students to work together, fostering teamwork and communication skills that are vital in healthcare settings.
- Digital Tools: The curriculum incorporates the use of advanced software for patient management and treatment planning, preparing students for the digital landscape of modern dental practices.
- Field Trips: Students may participate in field trips to dental conventions and health fairs, providing exposure to industry trends and professional networking.
- Research Laboratories: Access to research labs allows students to engage in studies that contribute to the advancement of dental hygiene practices.
- Libraries and Resources: The university's libraries offer extensive resources, including access to dental hygiene journals and databases, supporting students' academic research and learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BS)—Degree Completion program at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) prepares graduates for a rewarding career in dental hygiene, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in various healthcare settings. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as dental hygienists, public health educators, dental hygiene program directors, and clinical instructors. With a strong foundation in both clinical practice and health education, the opportunities for advancement in this field are abundant:

- University Services: MCPHS offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement assistance, ensuring you are well-prepared to enter the workforce.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygienists earn a median annual salary of around $77,000, with job growth projected to be much faster than average in the coming years.
- University–Industry Partnerships: MCPHS has established partnerships with leading dental practices and healthcare organizations, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and potential job placements.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), ensuring that your degree meets the highest standards and is recognized nationally.
- Graduation Outcomes: MCPHS boasts a high graduation rate, with many students successfully securing employment shortly after completing their degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the BS Dental Hygiene Degree Completion program, you may choose to further your education by pursuing a Master’s degree in Dental Hygiene or related fields, such as Public Health or Health Administration. This can open doors to advanced roles in academia, research, or healthcare management, allowing you to make an even greater impact in the dental hygiene profession.