Masters of Accountancy
The Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a...
B.S. in Dental Hygiene
Richmond, Virginia
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program in Dental Hygiene designed to prepare students for careers as dental hygienists. The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on clinical experience to train students in preventive dental care, oral health education, and patient management.
Curriculum: The B.S. in Dental Hygiene curriculum at VCU covers a wide range of topics essential to the field, including dental anatomy, oral pathology, radiography, periodontology, and dental hygiene theory and practice. Students also receive training in dental hygiene techniques such as teeth cleaning, scaling, and polishing. The curriculum integrates classroom instruction with laboratory sessions and clinical practicum experiences, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world dental settings.
Research Focus: VCU's dental hygiene program emphasizes a research-focused approach to oral health care. Faculty members engage in research projects exploring various aspects of dental hygiene practice, oral health promotion, and disease prevention. Students have the opportunity to participate in research activities, collaborate with faculty mentors on research projects, and present their findings at professional conferences. This research focus enhances students' critical thinking skills and prepares them to contribute to evidence-based dental hygiene practice.
Industry Engagement: The dental hygiene program at VCU maintains close ties with dental clinics, private practices, community health centers, and professional dental organizations. Students have the opportunity to participate in clinical rotations and internships at these sites, gaining valuable hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed dental professionals. Additionally, guest lectures, workshops, and networking events provide students with insights into emerging trends, best practices, and career opportunities in the dental hygiene field.
Global Perspective: Recognizing the importance of oral health on a global scale, VCU integrates a global perspective into its dental hygiene curriculum and clinical experiences. Students learn about oral health disparities, cultural influences on oral health behaviors, and global public health initiatives aimed at improving oral health outcomes. Study abroad programs, international service-learning projects, and research collaborations with global partners offer students the opportunity to gain cross-cultural perspectives and contribute to oral health efforts worldwide.
Location
Richmond, Virginia
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 37588
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fees: US$ 80
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 70 is often required.
- PTE : A minimum overall score of 53 is required.
- DET Requirement: A DET score of 105 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 Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU)
Global Excellence Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to outstanding incoming international undergraduate students. It provides full tuition coverage for up to four years of study at VCU. Recipients are selected based on academic merit and their potential to contribute to the VCU community.
International Student Scholarships: VCU offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. These scholarships vary in award amounts and eligibility criteria. They are typically based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other accomplishments.
VCU Presidential International Graduate Scholarships: These scholarships are available for international students pursuing graduate studies at VCU. The awards cover partial tuition costs and are granted based on academic excellence. Applicants must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and meet specific GPA requirements.
VCU Honors College Scholarships: The Honors College at VCU provides scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic achievements, leadership potential, and community involvement.
VCUarts Scholarships: For international students interested in pursuing degrees in the arts, VCUarts offers scholarships that are specific to their programs. These scholarships may include awards for outstanding portfolios or auditions.
VCU School of Engineering Scholarships: International students studying engineering at VCU may be eligible for scholarships offered by the School of Engineering. These scholarships are based on academic achievements and career aspirations in engineering fields.
Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at VCU may offer scholarships to international students within their specific fields of study. Eligibility criteria and award amounts vary by department.
External Scholarships: VCU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations. The university's scholarship office provides guidance on finding and applying for external scholarships.
It's important for international students to check the specific eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and application procedures for each scholarship they are interested in. Additionally, maintaining good academic standing is typically a requirement to retain scholarship awards.
VCU's B.S. in Dental Hygiene program prepares students for licensure as dental hygienists and provides a strong foundation in preventive dental care, patient education, and clinical practice. Graduates emerge with expertise in assessing oral health needs, providing dental cleanings, administering preventive treatments, and promoting oral hygiene practices.
Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH): Many graduates of VCU's dental hygiene program pursue careers as registered dental hygienists, working in dental offices, clinics, or public health settings. RDHs perform dental cleanings, take dental X-rays, conduct oral assessments, apply fluoride treatments, and educate patients on proper oral hygiene techniques. They play a vital role in preventing dental diseases and promoting overall oral health.
Dental Hygiene Educator: With their knowledge of dental hygiene theory and practice, some graduates of VCU's program pursue careers as dental hygiene educators, teaching future dental hygienists in academic settings such as community colleges, universities, or dental hygiene schools. They develop curriculum, instruct students in clinical skills, and provide mentorship and guidance to aspiring dental hygienists.
Public Health Dental Hygienist: Some VCU dental hygiene graduates choose careers as public health dental hygienists, working in community health centers, schools, nursing homes, or government agencies to provide dental hygiene services to underserved populations. They may conduct oral health screenings, deliver preventive care services, and implement oral health promotion programs to improve access to dental care and reduce oral health disparities.
Dental Practice Manager/Administrator: With their understanding of dental office operations and patient care, some graduates of VCU's dental hygiene program pursue careers as dental practice managers or administrators. They oversee administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient records, coordinating staff, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, contributing to the efficient and effective operation of dental practices.
Dental Sales Representative: Some VCU dental hygiene graduates enter careers as dental sales representatives, working for dental product manufacturers or suppliers. They promote and sell dental equipment, instruments, materials, and supplies to dental offices and clinics, providing product information, training, and support to dental professionals to meet their clinical needs and improve patient care.
Research Assistant/Coordinator: With their training in research methods and oral health care, some graduates of VCU's dental hygiene program pursue careers as research assistants or coordinators in academic institutions, research organizations, or dental companies. They support research projects, collect and analyze data, and contribute to advancements in dental hygiene practice, education, and public health.
