Dental Hygienist
Learn more about our Dental Hygiene Associate in Science Degree program.
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Apply for clinicals - Fall 2023 clinical application link will be here Spring 2023.
- You must have already taken the TEAS test (minimum score 62)
- You must have attended a mandatory application session within the past 9 months.
- Admission to HACC does not guarantee admission to the clinical component of the program. Work closely with your advisor to prepare to apply to the clinical/core component.
- Meet with a dental hygiene advisor.
- Download Admission Criteria, Point System and Essential Qualifications (pdf).
- Learn more about the TEAS test here. Includes link to the ATI website to register, remote proctoring, contact information, study groups and TEAS information sessions.
- FOR DENTAL HYGIENE - Three attempts in an application cycle is permitted for the TEAS exam. Scores are acceptable for three years.
- The TEAS test was updated to Version 7 June 2022.
- Beginning in fall of 2023 ONLY Version 7 tests will be accepted.
- Attend a (60-minute) mandatory information session. RSVP required - Email RSVPDHadvising@hacc.edu to reserve your seat. Space is limited and sessions fill quickly. When you RSVP include your name, ID, email address and which session.
- No one will be admitted once the session has started so please arrive early.
- In person sessions are held on Harrisburg Campus, Select Medical (SM) building and include a tour of the facility.
- Zoom sessions - You will receive Zoom dial-in information 24-48 hours prior to the information session date.
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- Feb. 3, 2023 8:30 a.m. SM 107
- Feb. 20, 6 p.m., via Zoom
- March 28, 8:30 a.m. via Zoom
- Download the Competencies for Entry into the Profession of Dental Hygiene
- Download the Dental Hygienist Shadowing Form - send forms to RSVPDHadvising@hacc.edu
- Download the Verification of Clinical Dental Assisting Hours Form (pdf) - send forms to RSVPDHadvising@hacc.edu
- Download immunization requirements for the dental hygiene program
- Download High School Graduation Verification Information (pdf)
Introduction to Dentistry course information (pdf)
Register for Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 Introduction to Dentistry Registration
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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).
Can I advance my education?
What are the program goals?
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?
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.
