Hey y'all, I'm a junior who's starting the search for colleges with strong dental hygiene programs. I live in California and would prefer to stay in-state. What are some of the top dental hygiene programs in the Cali? Thanks in advance!
Hey there! I'm glad to hear you're interested in dental hygiene programs in California. Here are five reputable in-state dental hygiene programs you may want to consider:
1. University of Southern California (USC): USC is well-known for its Ostrow School of Dentistry, which offers a bachelor's degree program in dental hygiene (B.S.). The program emphasizes clinical rotations and research, giving you the experience and knowledge needed for a successful career.
2. West Coast University (WCU): WCU offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program that prepares students for licensure and employment in general dentistry practice settings. The coursework covers various aspects, including public health and community services.
3. Cypress College: Cypress College has an associate degree program in dental hygiene that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The program includes both classroom and clinical components, which are completed over a two-year period.
4. Foothill College: Located in Los Altos Hills, Foothill College's dental hygiene program is another CODA-accredited option. The program leads to an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree, and students gain hands-on experience through the on-campus dental clinic and off-campus community service projects.
5. Diablo Valley College (DVC): DVC's dental hygiene program, offered at the Pleasant Hill campus, trains students in areas such as periodontics, radiology, and oral pathology. This two-year program concludes with an associate degree.
Keep in mind that these programs can be competitive, so it's essential to maintain a strong GPA, focus on prerequisite coursework, and, if possible, shadow or volunteer in a dental office to gain experience in the field.
I hope this helps you kick-start your search for a dental hygiene program that suits your needs. Make sure you research each program thoroughly and visit their websites for more information on application requirements and deadlines. Good luck!
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