University of Pittsburgh - School of Dental Medicine

Dental Hygiene: Certificate Program

The Dental Hygiene Certificate Program is a two-year, six-term course of

study that provides a broad range of education and experience. Students

preparing to enter the program should have a background in college

preparatory or college level course work. This experience helps to ensure a

solid background in the basic sciences. Incoming students also should have

successfully completed a college level English composition course and a

college level Introduction to Sociology course.

The Dental Hygiene Program provides a comprehensive education in

health sciences and clinical dental hygiene for men and women of all

ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds. It is the only dental hygiene program

in the state of Pennsylvania that is housed within a dental school and is

part of a major university and medical center.

The program offers baccalaureate education to students who complete

the certificate program. This degree enhances students' professional

training by providing important exposure to the broader University

curriculum. The combination of the basic sciences, clinical experiences,

and liberal arts strengthens the dental hygiene education, research,

and healthcare management/administration.

A distinct advantage of the Bachelor of Science in dental hygiene is that a

hygienist can practice his or her profession following receipt of a

certificate in dental hygiene, and be employed while completing the

requirements for the bachelor's degree. Classes are available in the

evening, during the day on Saturday, and through on-line and external

studies that require only three Saturday workshops while using

specially developed course materials. Attendance can be on a full-time or

part-time basis.