Associate in Applied Science
The Dental Hygiene curriculum is designed to prepare students for contemporary practice of dental hygiene. The curriculum emphasizes the fundamental knowledge necessary for practice in a private dental office or similar clinical setting under the supervision of a dentist.
The dental hygienist performs various preventive services, such as dental prophylaxis, topical fluoride applications, dental sealants, dental radiographs, instruction in plaque control procedures and experience with computerized dental office management systems. Successful completion of this curriculum permits one to take the required written and practical licensure examinations.
Students who wish to pursue a career as a dental hygienist in public health, health management, health education or dental hygiene education are encouraged to transfer to a baccalaureate program after graduation.
According to the 2010 Bureau of Labor Statistics, the National Dental Hygiene wage average was $68,200 and the New York State average was $67,200. By the year 2018, the national employment trend is expected to increase by 36%, the New York State expected average is 25%. BCC graduates meeting state and national licensing requirements are employed within six months of graduation.
In addition to textbooks, students are also expected to purchase numerous clinical supplies and malpractice insurance for clinical practice. Students are also required to complete the Dental Hygiene Department Freshman Orientation Manual requirements prior to admittance in the fall DH courses.
Individuals who self-disclose the presence of a blood-borne infectious disease will be shown the same consideration as non-infected individuals and will be offered reasonable accommodations. All information regarding the health status on an individual is considered confidential, and protected by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1994.
The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, a specialized accreditating body recognized by the Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation and by the United States Department of Education.
Pre-requsite requirements and/or academic preparation for admissions:
- Math Level 2: Regents Course 1 and II
or
Applied Math I, II, III
or
Algebra I and Geometry
or
Equivalent (minimum grade 74)
- Regents Biology or
Applied Science I and II
or
Equivalent (minimum grade 74)
- Chemistry or
Equivalent (minimum grade 74)
Recommended High School subjects: College Preparatory Courses
Program supervised by:
Maureen Mullins Hankin, Chairman
Office: Decker Health Science Center, Room 217
Telephone: 607 778-5149
E-mail: hankinmr@sunybroome.edu
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