Studying and practicing in a clinical atmosphere prepares Community College of Pennsylvania graduates to become effective dental health clinicians. Promoting dental health programs in dental offices, schools and community practices is part of the two-year program. A high school diploma or its equivalent, with courses in the sciences at the high school level, are prerequisites for entry into the college's dental hygienist program. An English placement exam is required. The 24-month full-time program prepares a dental hygiene student for the Pennsylvania state and national examinations necessary for licensing. Federal and state-funded grants and loans are available.
Harcum College's dental hygiene program is part of the school's Allied Health department. In addition to preparing a student for a career as a dental hygienist, the courses transfer to Pennsylvania four-year colleges for continuing education. In three semesters devoted to clinical care and prevention, students work in dental centers and hospitals. Preventive oral health care is one objective of a dental hygienist, and community outreach fulfills an important educational role. A high school degree with studies in math and sciences is required for admission to Harcum. In addition, SAT scores, a letter of recommendation and a completed personal essay must accompany the application. Summer sessions are required. Federal and state grants and loans are available.
The dental hygiene program at the University of Pittsburgh includes study in a major university, has links to a university dental degree program and has a medical center at its core. Obtaining a dental hygienist certificate requires full-time study for two years, including summers. College preparation courses and science studies prepare students for admission into the program at the university. A high school diploma or its equivalent, SAT scores, English composition and sociology are evaluated for entry. Applicants must also supply personal references and be interviewed by admissions personnel. Upon graduation, students are encouraged to continue their education at the university's School of Dental Medicine and earn a bachelor of science degree. Housing is available on campus, and federal and state grants and loans are available, as are scholarships.
A two-school alliance combines expertise in technology from Pennsylvania College of Technology with the academic program at Pennsylvania State University. Associate's and bachelor's degrees are offered. The college has the largest work force development program in Pennsylvania. Dental hygiene students earn an associate of applied science degree. The course includes credit work in an eight-day practical program in Nicaragua. Though a degree can be earned in two years plus a summer session, it is suggested that the work be spread over three years, allowing fewer courses per term. First-year coursework includes general education and is followed by enrollment in the dental hygiene program in the second year. Small classes, on-campus housing and financial aid are available.
Graduating dental hygiene students receive an associate in science degree from Manor College. The course is taught over six semesters and involves summer sessions. Students complete practical work at the school's dental health center, which has served the community since 1979. Continuing study is available for further certificates in expanded functions. Dental hygiene applicants must have a high school degree and coursework in math and science. SAT scores will be evaluated. The school administers gives its own placement test. Incoming dental hygiene students must submit to a rigorous medical examination. A residence hall is available to those who wish to live on campus. Financial aid, loans and grants are available.
Luzerne Community College is a public, two-year college in northeastern Pennsylvania. The dental hygiene associate in applied science program includes courses in dental management, dental education and dental research in addition to clinical practice. Summer sessions are required in addition to the school-year terms. Though admission to the college requires only a high school diploma or its equivalent, the health sciences department has separate entrance standards. Applicants must have algebra, biology and chemistry coursework, and must have a minimum of a "C" grade point average. Courses prepare students for the Pennsylvania state licensing exam. Financial aid is available in the form of grants and loans.