The Dental Hygiene Associate in Science Degree is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation, and has been granted the Accreditation status of approval without reporting. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation. This program offers a curriculum that provides the student with the appropriate academic instruction to achieve eligibility for the National Board of Dental Hygiene Examiners written examination, and the Western Regional Examining Board Examination (WREB) for licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist, qualifying the candidate as stipulated in the California Dental Practice Act. To earn an Associate Degree students must complete all graduation requirements including: (1) all major course requirements with a grade of C or better; (2) Cypress College Native General Education requirements; California State University General Education Breadth requirements (CSU GE Breadth) or IGETC General Education requirements; (3) the cultural diversity and reading requirements; (4) any elective courses to complete a minimum of 60 units; and, (5) have a minimum GPA of 2.0. At least 50% of all major coursework must be completed at Cypress College. Statement of Program Goals and Objectives The goal of the Dental Hygiene Program at Cypress College is to provide the student with the educational opportunity to attain (1) dental hygiene process of care knowledge, skills, and values, (2) a professional relationship with the community in which they serve, (3) a relationship amongst allied health care team, (4) professional knowledgeable of and compliance with OSHA, HIPAA, Law and Ethics, Dental Hygiene Board of California, and local regulatory guidelines, as well as (5) professional sensitivity to the autonomy, beneficence, and nonmaleficence principles of ethical practice.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

1. To educate dental hygiene students in the ethical, legal, and competent practice of dental hygiene.

2. To educate dental hygiene students in the areas of disease prevention and oral health promotion.

3. To facilitate dental hygiene student’s involvement in community projects.

4. To promote professional growth, development, and an appreciation for scholarly activity.

5. To ensure the dental hygiene student provides optimal patient care.

6. To qualify for licensure as a Registered Dental Hygienist, and a professional member of the allied health team.