B.S. in Dental Hygiene

Albuquerque

 

INTAKE: Jan & Aug

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Dental Hygiene program at the University of New Mexico (UNM) offers students a comprehensive education in oral health care and dental hygiene practices. UNM's Dental Hygiene program prepares students for careers as dental hygienists by providing them with theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and practical experience in preventive dental care, patient education, and dental hygiene techniques.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.S. in Dental Hygiene at UNM is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in dental science, dental hygiene theory, and clinical practice. Courses cover topics such as dental anatomy, oral pathology, periodontology, radiology, pharmacology, and dental hygiene techniques. Students also gain hands-on experience through clinical rotations, where they provide dental hygiene services under the supervision of licensed dental professionals. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing students to promote oral health and prevent dental diseases in diverse populations.

Research Focus: UNM's Dental Hygiene program emphasizes research as an essential component of the educational experience. Students have opportunities to engage in research projects, literature reviews, or evidence-based practice projects under the guidance of faculty mentors. Research areas may include oral health disparities, preventive interventions, dental hygiene education, or innovative dental technologies. Students gain experience with research methods such as literature searches, data collection, and data analysis, developing critical thinking skills and evidence-based approaches to dental hygiene practice.

Industry Engagement: UNM fosters connections with dental clinics, community health centers, and dental industry partners, providing students with opportunities for clinical internships, externships, and professional development. Industry engagement initiatives in the Dental Hygiene program often include partnerships with local dental practices, where students gain practical experience in dental hygiene services, patient care, and dental office management. Students also have the opportunity to participate in continuing education courses, dental conferences, and networking events that connect them with dental professionals and help them explore career opportunities in dental hygiene practice or dental-related industries.

Global Perspective: In an increasingly diverse and multicultural society, UNM's Dental Hygiene program emphasizes the importance of a global perspective in understanding oral health disparities and addressing the oral health needs of diverse populations. The curriculum includes coursework that explores cultural competency, community oral health, and global oral health initiatives. Additionally, students have opportunities to participate in community outreach programs, volunteer projects, or international service-learning experiences that expose them to different cultural norms, health beliefs, and oral health practices. These experiences foster cross-cultural understanding, empathy, and awareness of global oral health issues, preparing students to provide culturally sensitive care and advocate for oral health equity in local and global communities.

Pollster Education

Location

Albuquerque

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS 6

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

USD 27166

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fees: US$ 50

Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.

English Language Proficiency

  • IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual band score below 5.5.
  • TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 68 is often required.
  • PTE :  A minimum overall score of 47 is required.

Students must provide:

  • academic marksheets & transcripts
  • letters of recommendation
  • a personal statement - SOP
  • passport
  • other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Scholarships for International Students at the University of New Mexico:

Global Education Office Scholarships: UNM's Global Education Office (GEO) offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are merit-based and can be awarded to both undergraduate and graduate students. They may cover tuition and fees, living expenses, or a combination of both.

International Amigo Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at fostering cultural exchange and friendship between international students and the local community. It provides financial assistance to international students while also encouraging them to engage in community service and cultural outreach activities.

Graduate Assistantships: UNM offers graduate assistantships to qualified international graduate students. These assistantships may involve teaching, research, or administrative duties. They often come with a stipend, tuition remission, and health insurance benefits.

College or Departmental Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within UNM may have their own scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields of study. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, research interests, or other criteria relevant to the department.

Private and External Scholarships: UNM encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by international foundations, government agencies, and private organizations. The Global Education Office provides guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for such scholarships.

Fulbright Scholarships: UNM participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships to international students, scholars, and professionals. The university assists eligible international applicants in the Fulbright application process.

Cultural and Country-Specific Scholarships: Some cultural or country-specific organizations and foundations offer scholarships to students from particular regions or countries. International students should research opportunities related to their background and nationality.

Merit-Based Scholarships: UNM awards merit-based scholarships to outstanding international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements and leadership qualities. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs.

Research Scholarships: International graduate students in research-intensive programs may have the opportunity to receive research scholarships from faculty members conducting research projects. These scholarships often include a stipend and tuition support.

Diversity Scholarships: UNM is promoting diversity and inclusion. Some scholarships are awarded to international students who contribute to the university's diversity through their experiences, backgrounds, or interests.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary from year to year. Additionally, students are encouraged to meet academic and application requirements to enhance their chances of receiving scholarships.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Dental Hygiene from the University of New Mexico (UNM) opens up a variety of rewarding career opportunities in the field of oral health care. 

Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH): B.S. in Dental Hygiene graduates can pursue careers as registered dental hygienists, working in dental offices, clinics, hospitals, or public health settings. Registered dental hygienists provide preventive dental care services to patients, including teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, oral assessments, and patient education on oral hygiene practices. They may also perform dental x-rays, apply dental sealants, and administer local anesthesia under the supervision of licensed dentists.

Dental Hygiene Educator: Graduates may work as dental hygiene educators, teaching and mentoring future dental hygienists in academic institutions, vocational schools, or dental hygiene programs. Dental hygiene educators develop curriculum materials, teach courses, supervise clinical rotations, and evaluate student performance in dental hygiene programs. They may also conduct research, publish scholarly articles, and present at dental conferences to contribute to the advancement of dental hygiene education and practice.

Public Health Dental Hygienist: B.S. in Dental Hygiene graduates can pursue careers as public health dental hygienists, working in community health centers, schools, nursing homes, or public health agencies to promote oral health and prevent dental diseases in underserved populations. Public health dental hygienists conduct oral health screenings, administer fluoride treatments, and provide preventive dental care services to individuals and communities. They may also develop oral health education programs, coordinate outreach initiatives, and advocate for policies that improve access to dental care and oral health services.

Dental Sales Representative: Graduates may work as dental sales representatives, representing dental product manufacturers, distributors, or dental supply companies, selling dental equipment, instruments, and supplies to dental practices, clinics, and hospitals. Dental sales representatives develop relationships with dental professionals, demonstrate product features, provide product training, and offer customer support to meet the needs of dental clients and promote sales growth.

Dental Practice Manager/Administrator: B.S. in Dental Hygiene graduates can pursue careers as dental practice managers or administrators, overseeing the daily operations and administrative functions of dental offices, clinics, or dental departments. Dental practice managers/administrators manage staff schedules, coordinate patient appointments, handle billing and insurance claims, maintain patient records, and ensure compliance with dental regulations and standards. They may also develop marketing strategies, manage budgets, and implement quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and practice efficiency.

Research Coordinator/Assistant: Graduates may work as research coordinators or research assistants in dental research institutions, academic departments, or dental laboratories, supporting research projects and clinical trials related to oral health and dental hygiene. Research coordinators/assistants assist with study recruitment, data collection, data entry, and study coordination tasks under the supervision of dental researchers or principal investigators. They may also contribute to literature reviews, research protocols, and research presentations to advance knowledge in the field of dental hygiene and oral health care.


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