B.S in Dental Hygiene

4 Years Online Bachelors Program

Utah Valley University

Program Overview

The B.S. in Dental Hygiene at Utah Valley University is designed for students who are passionate about oral health and want to make a positive impact in their communities. This program combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical experience, preparing graduates for a rewarding career in dental hygiene.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students will lay a strong foundation in the sciences and dental hygiene principles. Courses such as "Introduction to Dental Hygiene" and "Anatomy and Physiology" will provide essential knowledge about the human body and the role of dental hygiene in overall health. Additionally, "Oral Anatomy" will help students understand the structure and function of the oral cavity, setting the stage for more advanced studies.

During the second year, students will build on their foundational knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of oral health and patient care. Courses such as "Periodontology" and "Dental Radiography" will introduce students to the assessment and treatment of periodontal diseases and the effective use of radiographic techniques. The "Clinical Dental Hygiene" course will provide opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings.

In the third year, students will focus more extensively on clinical practices and advanced dental hygiene concepts. Courses such as "Advanced Clinical Dental Hygiene" and "Community Dental Health" will strengthen their clinical skills while emphasizing preventive care and public health. Students will gain further hands-on experience working with patients and applying evidence-based approaches to dental hygiene practice.

In the final year, students will refine their professional skills and prepare for careers in dental hygiene. Advanced courses will emphasize comprehensive patient care, community health, and professional practice, while the "Capstone Project" will provide an opportunity to conduct research or develop a project that demonstrates their skills and knowledge. By the end of the program, students will be prepared to apply their education and clinical experience in professional dental hygiene settings.

Focus Areas: Clinical practice, patient education, community health, research, and professional ethics.

Learning Outcomes: Proficiency in clinical skills, understanding of dental hygiene theory, ability to assess patient needs, and effective communication with patients and healthcare teams.

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

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Utah Valley University consistently ranks highly for employability, with graduates finding success in various healthcare settings, reflecting the program's strong reputation in the field.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Utah Valley University, the B.S. in Dental Hygiene program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is essential for a successful career in dental hygiene. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance their learning and prepare them for real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various practical opportunities, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped with the skills needed in the dental field.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the B.S. Dental Hygiene program at UVU:

- Clinical Practice: Students gain direct experience in the UVU Dental Hygiene Clinic, where they work with real patients under the supervision of licensed professionals.
- Advanced Technology: The program utilizes cutting-edge dental technology, including digital radiography and CAD/CAM systems, to familiarize students with the latest tools in the industry.
- Internships: Students have the opportunity to participate in internships at local dental practices, providing valuable experience and networking opportunities.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects allow students to work together on case studies and community health initiatives, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to dental conventions and health fairs, giving students exposure to the broader dental community and current trends in the field.
- Research Laboratories: Students can engage in research projects within designated laboratories, contributing to advancements in dental hygiene practices.
- Access to Libraries and Resources: The UVU library offers extensive resources, including dental hygiene journals and databases, to support students' academic research and learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Choosing to pursue a B.S. in Dental Hygiene at Utah Valley University (UVU) opens the door to a rewarding career in a growing field. Graduates from this program are well-prepared for various roles, including dental hygienist, public health educator, and dental hygiene program director. The demand for skilled dental hygienists continues to rise, making this an excellent choice for your future:

- University Services: UVU offers robust career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job placement assistance, ensuring you are well-equipped 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 at 11% from 2020 to 2030, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UVU has established partnerships with local dental practices and health organizations, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The Dental Hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), ensuring that your degree meets the highest educational standards and is recognized nationwide.
- Graduation Outcomes: UVU boasts a high graduation rate, with many students successfully passing their licensure exams on the first attempt, which speaks to the quality of education and preparation you will receive.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your B.S. in Dental Hygiene, you can continue your education by pursuing a Master’s degree in Dental Hygiene or related fields, which can lead to advanced roles in education, research, or administration. Additionally, UVU offers pathways to specialized certifications and continuing education courses that can enhance your skills and career prospects.