Dental Hygienist
Learn more about our Dental Hygiene Associate in Science Degree program.
Apply for clinicals - Fall 2023 clinical application link - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DH_2023
Introduction to Dentistry course information (pdf) |
What does a dental hygienist do?
A dental hygienist is qualified by education and licensure to provide:
- Patient assessment - including reviewing health history, recording vital signs, radiographic examination, and charting
- Treatment planning
- Patient education
- Administration of local anesthesia
- Removal of deposits and stains from teeth
- Placement of sealants
Learn more about the career (American Dental Association website).
How much does the program cost?
Download the Estimated Expenses (pdf).
What degree will I earn? Will I be eligible for credentials?
Upon successful completion, you will:
- earn a Dental Hygiene Associate in Science degree
- be eligible to sit for licensing exams to become a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)
What are the required courses and what is the suggested schedule? How long does the program take to complete? Where are the clinical classes held?
- Download a list of Required Courses, which includes a sample schedule (pdf).
- The dental hygiene program holds classes at the Harrisburg Campus. General education courses may be taken at other campuses and sites.
Is the program accredited?
The program is accredited by The Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (CODA).
- View Third Party Comments here. (pdf)
- Learn why accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) matters. (pdf)
Can I advance my education?
- This program leads directly to an occupation
- Students can pursue
- Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at University of Bridgeport
- Dental Hygiene, Completion, Online | Pennsylvania College of Technology (pct.edu)
- Bachelor of Science in Allied Health at Widener University
- Learn more about Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary Program (EFDA).
What are the program goals?
- Download the Program Mission Statement (pdf).
What is the most current (2020) program effectiveness data?
- Five-year completion rate 85%
- Program performance:
- National board exams (five years) 94% success rate at second attempt is 100%
- CDCA Clinical examination 90% pass rate first attempt
- CDCA Written examination 100% pass rate first attempt
- Job placement 100%
How can I get more information?
- View a list of available scholarships.
- Review the CODA Complaint Policy.
- View information about HACC's Dental Treatment Facility
- Download the Program Faculty and Staff (pdf).
Who can I contact for more information?
Please contact an Admissions Counselor, by phone at 800-ABC-HACC, or by email at start@hacc.edu
Dental Hygiene Program Office
Select Medical Health Education Pavilion (SMHEP), Room 104
HACC Harrisburg Campus
1 HACC Drive
Harrisburg, PA 17110
717-780-2490
Mail clinical program addendum to the above address Attention: DH Secretary.