Nature of Work

The Dental Hygienist is a licensed, professional member of the health care team who integrates the roles of educator, consumer advocate, practitioner, manager, change agent, and researcher to support total health through the promotion of oral health and wellness.  Most Dental Hygienists work as integral members of the dental team in private dental offices, but many provide preventive and educational services in hospitals, military installations, and schools.

Program Description

The Dental Hygiene Program at the College of Southern Nevada is a two-year course of study (88 credit hours).  It is located at the Charleston Campus in the Health Sciences Center(HSC), at the intersection of Torrey Pines and West Charleston.   The HSC features a contemporary Dental Hygiene Clinic equipped with the latest in radiology facilities, dental units, ultrasonic scaling devices, hands-off washing stations, and disinfection and sterilization capabilities.  Classrooms offer state-of-the-art visual equipment and laboratory facilities.  Graduates of the Dental Hygiene program must complete the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and a clinical examination conducted by a state or regional board to become licensed to practice.

Accreditation

The CSN program in dental hygiene is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation 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.  The Commission’s web address is: http://www.ada.org/100.aspx.

Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene

Program Course Sheet and Application Deadlines (Associate of Science)

Career Guide and Approximate Costs (Associate of Science)

Selection Criteria

DH Observation Report Record

Dental Hygiene Employer Survey

Admission Requirements

This is a Limited Entry Program.  Therefore, an application for admission must be submitted by the application deadline and all prerequisite requirements must be completed by the completion deadline in order to be eligible for consideration.  This material is reviewed using selection criteria set by the program.  Applicants are notified of their standing by the Limited Entry office.

New Student Checklist

New students planning to register for courses at CSN must follow the steps outlined on the Students First Checklist. This checklist provides information on the registration process for new students seeking a Limited-Entry Health Science Degree or Certificate.

How to Transfer Credits to CSN

Taking the Dexterity and Spatial Tests

TEAS Exam Information and Registration Form

NOTE: Students who have taken the TEAS exam from another state and/or institution must have all their scores officially transferred to CSN BEFORE their specified application deadline. An unofficial copy must also be presented with their limited entry application packet.

Surveys

*For further information, contact the Health Programs Advisement office.  Additionally, it is very important that interested students attend an orientation as soon as possible for complete admissions information.   Program orientations are held weekly.  You can call (702)651-5015 for pre-recorded orientation information. 

If you require other information, please e-mail the Health Programs Advisor directly.