The Midwestern State University (MSU) Dental Hygiene Program is a highly regarded institution for students seeking a career in dental hygiene. With a strong focus on clinical practice, community service, and evidence-based education, the program prepares students to become competent and compassionate dental hygiene professionals.
History and Accreditation
The MSU Dental Hygiene Program was established in 1974 and is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). The program has a long history of excellence, with a proven track record of producing skilled and dedicated dental hygiene professionals.
Program Objectives
The MSU Dental Hygiene Program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in dental hygiene, with the following objectives:
- Provide students with a strong foundation in the sciences, including anatomy, biochemistry, and pharmacology
- Develop students' clinical skills in dental hygiene, including patient assessment, radiography, and treatment planning
- Foster students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enabling them to make informed decisions in a rapidly changing healthcare environment
- Promote students' commitment to community service and social responsibility
Curriculum
The MSU Dental Hygiene Program is a four-year bachelor's degree program that includes both classroom and clinical instruction. The curriculum is divided into two main components: pre-clinical and clinical.
- Pre-clinical coursework includes classes in anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology, and dental hygiene theory
- Clinical coursework includes hands-on training in the university's state-of-the-art dental hygiene clinic, where students work with patients under the supervision of licensed dental hygiene faculty
Clinical Experience
The MSU Dental Hygiene Program places a strong emphasis on clinical experience, with students participating in a variety of clinical rotations and community service projects. These experiences provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings, working with diverse patient populations and developing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Faculty and Staff
The MSU Dental Hygiene Program is led by a team of experienced and dedicated faculty and staff, who are committed to providing students with a high-quality education and clinical training. Faculty members are licensed dental hygienists with expertise in a range of areas, including clinical practice, education, and research.
Admissions and Prerequisites
Admission to the MSU Dental Hygiene Program is competitive, with a limited number of seats available each year. Applicants must meet the following prerequisites:
- Earn a minimum GPA of 2.5 in prerequisite coursework
- Complete a minimum of 40 hours of observation in a dental hygiene clinic
- Submit a personal statement and letters of recommendation
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of attending the MSU Dental Hygiene Program varies depending on the student's residency status and other factors. Financial aid is available to qualified students, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
Graduate Outcomes
Graduates of the MSU Dental Hygiene Program have achieved excellent outcomes, including:
- High pass rates on the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
- Strong job placement rates, with many graduates securing employment in dental hygiene clinics and other healthcare settings
- High levels of satisfaction with the program, with graduates reporting that they feel well-prepared for their careers in dental hygiene
Community Service
The MSU Dental Hygiene Program places a strong emphasis on community service, with students participating in a variety of projects and activities throughout the year. These experiences provide students with the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge while giving back to the community.
Gallery of MSU Dental Hygiene Program
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the admission process for the MSU Dental Hygiene Program?
+The admission process for the MSU Dental Hygiene Program is competitive, with a limited number of seats available each year. Applicants must meet the prerequisite requirements and submit a personal statement and letters of recommendation.
How long does the MSU Dental Hygiene Program take to complete?
+The MSU Dental Hygiene Program is a four-year bachelor's degree program.
What kind of clinical experience can I expect in the MSU Dental Hygiene Program?
+The MSU Dental Hygiene Program provides students with a variety of clinical experiences, including rotations in the university's dental hygiene clinic and community service projects.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Midwestern State University Dental Hygiene Program. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about the program, we encourage you to contact the university directly.