Dental Hygiene

Clinical practice
You’ll train and practice your skills on campus in Parkland’s state-of-the-art Dental Hygiene Clinic. You’ll complete your observations off campus at the Champaign-Urbana Public Health Clinic, Veteran’s Administration Hospital, Champaign County Nursing Home, and private dental offices.

Length of study
As a full-time student, you can earn the A.A.S. degree in two years, including summers. A recommended option is enrolling in the pre-dental hygiene program of study to complete general and supportive courses before entering the program.

Licensing examination requirements
You must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and a state or regional clinical examination before applying for licensure as a registered dental hygienist (RDH). In the past ten years Parkland students have achieved a phenomenal 99 percent success rate on these exams.

Entry requirements
Chemistry and Anatomy/Physiology I (BIO 121) is required to enter this program. A strong high school science background is highly recommended.

Application deadline
New classes are admitted in the summer session or fall semester. You must submit all admission credentials by March 1 of the year you plan to enter. Contact Parkland’s Admissions office at 217/351-2482 and request the Health Professions admissions procedures.

Required courses
Dental Hygiene A.A.S. Degree |

Continuing Education Courses