The Dental Hygienist is a licensed professional member of the healthcare team who integrates the roles of educator, consumer advocate, practitioner, manager and researcher to support total health
through the promotion of oral health and wellness. The focus of dental hygiene is on preventing and treating oral disease.

Upon receipt of the Associate of Applied Science Degree, successful completion of the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination is required. The graduate will also need to obtain a license for the state he/she wishes to practice in by successfully completing a regional practical examination (WREB). The dental hygienist must practice in accordance with the requirements of the individual state practice acts and abide by requirements to maintain licensure.

Outcomes: Graduates are prepared to:

• Formulate comprehensive oral hygiene care plans that are patient centered and based on current scientific evidence.
  
  
• Employ professional judgment and critical thinking to identify, assess, analyze and creatively address situations in a safe and ethical manner.
  
  
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills through verbal and written communication.
  
  
• Demonstrate leadership skills and provide service to the community through health promotion activities and education.
  
  
• Apply the concepts of oral health prevention and promotion to improve overall wellness.
  
  
• Provide safe and competent dental care to individuals of any age.
  
  
• Demonstrate appropriate cultural, legal, ethical and professional values at all times.
  
  
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
  
  
• Practice within the standards established by the profession and identify parameters of accountability.

The MSU-Great Falls College of Technology’s Dental Hygiene Program is a limited enrollment program, accepting 14 students each year. Interested students are urged to contact the Admissions Office and the Health Sciences Department for student advising specific to admission requirements and criteria for program acceptance.

Fall Semester

Summer Semester

Fall Semester

Spring Semester

A grade of "C" or above must be achieved in all courses to advance in the program and to graduate.

Students will be required to purchase dental instruments, supplies, uniforms and may also be required to provide transportation to clinical sites and lodging costs depending on the clinical sites selected.

~ Many students need preliminary math and English courses before enrolling in the program requirements. These courses may increase the total number of program credits. Students should review their math and English placement before planning out their full program schedule.

† A grade of “C-” or above required for graduation
* Indicates prerequisites needed
** Placement in course(s) is determined by admissions assessment