Fast Track Dental Hygiene Programs

Are you a dental hygiene student looking to fast track your way to a master’s degree? Look no further! Idaho State University offers accelerated undergraduate programs that allow you to take graduate courses while completing your bachelor’s degree. This means you can save time and energy by earning credits that count towards both degrees. Let’s dive into the details and find out how you can embark on this exciting journey.

Accelerated B.S. to M.S. Program

Idaho State University provides an opportunity for exceptional dental hygiene students to complete a fast track program during the summer and last two semesters of the bachelor’s degree program. To be eligible, you must have a cumulative 3.5 grade point average in your dental hygiene courses and senior standing. If you meet these criteria, you can complete up to 12 graduate credits that will be applied to both your undergraduate and graduate programs. It’s a win-win situation!

To ensure a smooth transition, it is recommended to maintain open communication with your advisor throughout the process. Acceptance into the accelerated program is just the first step. You will also need to submit a separate application to the Graduate School. Don’t worry, though! The Graduate Program Director will be there to guide you. Seek their assistance regarding acceptance into the Graduate School and the Master of Science Dental Hygiene program.

Program Admissions Requirements

If you’re interested in joining the dental hygiene program, you must submit a formal application for admission before January 15 of the year you wish to enter. Keep in mind that completing prerequisite courses and meeting specific requirements are essential for consideration. A minimum Cumulative Core and Natural Science Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.8 is required. You can find more information about the admission criteria and procedures on the Dental Hygiene website at https://isu.edu/dentalhygiene/. The application materials should be submitted through the American Dental Education Association Centralized Dental Hygiene Application Service at http://www.adea.org/dhcas.aspx.

Remember, admission to Idaho State University is a separate procedure that must be completed before applying to the dental hygiene program. Additionally, you must provide verification of current CPR certification and vaccinations before starting the program within the specified application year. These measures ensure the highest standards of safety and professionalism are upheld.

Academic Standards

To enroll in upper division courses with a dental hygiene prefix (DENT), students must be accepted into the dental hygiene program. It is your responsibility to complete the required coursework in the proper sequential order. Graduation and progression in the dental hygiene program require a cumulative grade point average of 2.25. Keep in mind that any coursework with a grade below “C-” (C minus) will not fulfill the requirements for the Department of Dental Hygiene. However, don’t worry if you encounter any challenges; the department chairperson can grant approval for deviations from these standards.

Prerequisite Courses

To ensure a strong foundation in dental hygiene, several prerequisite courses must be completed. These include Principles of Microbiology, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Essentials of Organic and Biochemistry, Fundamentals of Oral Communication, Principles of Dental Hygiene, Writing and Rhetoric, Nutrition, Introduction to Psychology, and Introduction to Sociology. These courses must be completed with a grade of C- or above, and your cumulative grade point average (GPA) must be 2.25 or higher.

General Education

The dental hygiene program at Idaho State University also fulfills General Education requirements. You will meet the objectives for English, oral communication, mathematics, and several other subjects. To enrich your experience, an elective course called INFO 1101 is highly recommended for individuals without computer skills. It’s a great opportunity to expand your knowledge in this crucial area.

Major Requirements

As a dental hygiene student, you will embark on an exciting journey of acquiring specialized knowledge and skills. The major requirements include a wide range of courses such as Prevention and Management of Medical Emergencies, Oral Histology and Embryology, General and Oral Pathology, Tooth Morphology, Head and Neck Anatomy, Clinical Dental Hygiene, Dental Materials, Oral Radiology, Preclinical Restorative Procedures, Pain Management, Periodontology, Research Methods, Ethics, and many more. These courses will equip you with the expertise needed to excel in your field.

Dental Hygiene Electives

To further customize your learning experience, you can choose elective courses that align with your interests and career goals. For example, the Accelerated Dental Hygiene Graduate Electives offer courses such as Graduate Seminar I, Special Care Populations, and educational strategies. These elective courses, taken at the 5000/6000 level, will count towards your graduate coursework.

Degree Totals

When you successfully complete the dental hygiene program at Idaho State University, you will have earned a total of 132 credits. It’s worth mentioning that the program admission requirements do not include the required General Education credits. Don’t worry; the university provides a comprehensive roadmap to help you navigate your academic journey successfully.

So, if you’re ready to take a leap towards a promising future in dental hygiene, Idaho State University’s fast track programs are the perfect choice. Save time, broaden your knowledge, and enhance your career prospects. To learn more about these programs and start your application process, head over to the Idaho State University Dental Hygiene website at https://isu.edu/dentalhygiene/. Your dream of becoming a dental hygiene professional is just a few steps away!

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