Where you’ll go:
With our excellent reputation and connections to the health industry, Parkland's Dental Hygiene program is fully accredited and will prepare you for transfer, licensing exams, or whatever you need to move ahead in your career. You'll work in private practice, long-term care facilities, and state and public health departments. To learn more about the Dental Hygiene program, see the Admissions Rubric.
Humanistic Teaching Statement
The Parkland Dental Hygiene Program is dedicated to cultivating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where students are empowered to achieve academic excellence, professional integrity, and compassionate patient care. Aligned with the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards, we provide a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that integrates the latest scientific knowledge and clinical practices. We believe in treating every patient with dignity, respect, and empathy, fostering strong patient-provider relationships based on trust and mutual respect. Upholding the highest ethical standards, our program instills honesty, accountability, and responsibility in all professional interactions. We emphasize lifelong learning and professional development while recognizing the importance of community involvement through outreach programs and public health initiatives. By celebrating diversity and promoting cultural competence, we create a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and empowered to succeed. Our commitment to CODA standards ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the profession and contribute to the health and well-being of the communities they serve.
View the Job Outlook for Dental Hygienists.
Explore the Goals and Scope of Practice.
Read the Bloodborne Pathogen Policy.
Program Goals and Effectiveness Data
Review the National Certification Exam Pass Rates
Notification to Students of Their Right to Complain-CODA
Students have the right to complain about the Parkland College Dental Hygiene Program. The following references can be used to communicate your complaint and make suggestions for Program Improvement:
Laura Hettinger, Dental Hygiene Program Director, 2400 W. Bradley Ave., Champaign, IL 61821. You can reach her by phone at 217-351-2386 or via email lhettinger@parkland.edu.
Kim Pankau, Dean of Health Professions, 2400 W. Bradley Ave., Champaign, IL 61821. You can reach her by phone at 217-351-2383 or via email kpankau@parkland.edu
The Commission on Dental Accreditation will review complaints that relate to a program’s compliance with the accreditation standards. The Commission is interested in the sustained quality and continued improvement of dental and dental-related education programs but does not intervene on behalf of individuals or act a court of appeal for individuals in matters of admission, appointment, promotion of or dismissal of faculty, staff or students.
Commission on Dental Accreditation, American Dental Association, 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60611, 312-440-4653. www.ada.org .
Licensure and Certification
The Parkland College Dental Hygiene Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the status of Approval without Reporting Requirements. The commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312/440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678. The commission’s web address is: http://www.ada.org/en/coda.