Are you interested in pursuing a career in dental hygiene? The Prairie College (PRCC) dental hygiene program is a great place to start. In this article, we will guide you through the application process, highlighting the requirements, deadlines, and tips to increase your chances of getting accepted.
Why Choose PRCC Dental Hygiene Program?
The PRCC dental hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and prepares students for a career as a registered dental hygienist (RDH). The program emphasizes hands-on training, community service, and evidence-based practice. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and the Clinical Licensure Examination.
Application Requirements
To be considered for admission to the PRCC dental hygiene program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Prerequisite Courses: Applicants must complete the following prerequisite courses with a minimum grade of "C":
- Biology (4 credits)
- Chemistry (4 credits)
- English Composition (3 credits)
- Mathematics (3 credits)
- GPA: Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
- TEAS: Applicants must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and achieve a minimum score of 58.7.
- Observation Hours: Applicants must complete a minimum of 16 observation hours in a dental hygiene setting.
- References: Applicants must provide two professional references.
Application Process
The application process for the PRCC dental hygiene program typically opens in September and closes in February. Here's a step-by-step guide to the application process:
- Create an Account: Create an account on the PRCC website and submit your application.
- Submit Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- Take TEAS: Take the TEAS and submit your scores to PRCC.
- Complete Observation Hours: Complete the required observation hours and submit documentation.
- Provide References: Provide two professional references.
- Submit Application: Submit your application, including all required documents and fees.
Application Deadlines
The application deadline for the PRCC dental hygiene program is typically February 15th. However, it's essential to check the PRCC website for the most up-to-date deadline information.
Tips for a Successful Application
Here are some tips to increase your chances of getting accepted into the PRCC dental hygiene program:
- Meet the Requirements: Ensure you meet all the application requirements, including prerequisite courses, GPA, and TEAS scores.
- Gain Observation Experience: Gain as much observation experience as possible to demonstrate your commitment to the field.
- Secure Strong References: Secure strong professional references that can speak to your skills and abilities.
- Submit a Strong Application: Submit a strong application, including a well-written personal statement and all required documents.
Program Curriculum
The PRCC dental hygiene program is a two-year associate degree program that includes both classroom and clinical instruction. The program curriculum includes courses in:
- Dental Hygiene Theory: Dental hygiene theory, including oral anatomy, oral histology, and oral pathology.
- Clinical Dental Hygiene: Clinical dental hygiene, including patient assessment, treatment planning, and dental hygiene procedures.
- Community Health: Community health, including health promotion, disease prevention, and community outreach.
- Practice Management: Practice management, including dental office management, marketing, and finance.
Clinical Experience
The PRCC dental hygiene program provides students with hands-on clinical experience in a state-of-the-art dental clinic. Students work with licensed dental hygienists and dentists to provide dental hygiene services to patients, including:
- Patient Assessment: Patient assessment, including medical and dental history, vital signs, and oral examination.
- Treatment Planning: Treatment planning, including developing a personalized treatment plan for each patient.
- Dental Hygiene Procedures: Dental hygiene procedures, including cleaning, polishing, and radiographic imaging.
Gallery of Dental Hygiene
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for the PRCC dental hygiene program?
+The application deadline for the PRCC dental hygiene program is typically February 15th.
What are the prerequisite courses for the PRCC dental hygiene program?
+The prerequisite courses for the PRCC dental hygiene program include biology, chemistry, English composition, and mathematics.
How long is the PRCC dental hygiene program?
+The PRCC dental hygiene program is a two-year associate degree program.
Conclusion
The PRCC dental hygiene program is a great option for those interested in pursuing a career in dental hygiene. With its comprehensive curriculum, hands-on clinical experience, and state-of-the-art facilities, students are well-prepared to succeed in the field. By following the application guide and tips outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of getting accepted into the program and start your journey to becoming a registered dental hygienist.