I'm a junior considering a career in dental hygiene, and I've heard California has some great programs. Can anyone recommend schools or share what makes them stand out? Trying to decide if I should look into moving there for college.
Given your interest in dental hygiene, there are indeed some top-notch programs in California you may want to consider:
1. University of Southern California (USC): Known for its Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, USC has a program in dental hygiene that celebrates a collaborative, evidence-based curriculum and abundant clinical experiences. This is well paired with sophisticated facilities boasting cutting-edge technology.
2. West Los Angeles College: This offers an accredited Dental Hygiene Program leading to an Associate of Science degree. Students are also eligible to take the license exams upon graduation. The key feature is that the coursework provides both theoretical knowledge and practical training.
3. Foothill College: Their dental hygiene program approaches the study of dental hygiene through rigorous coursework, an integrative and collaborative learning environment, and direct clinical experience with diverse patient populations.
4. Fresno City College: This college provides an accredited Dental Hygiene program that emphasizes practical skills. It’s also worth noting that this is one of the more affordable programs in the state.
What sets these programs apart are their thorough and practical curricula, hands-on teaching methodologies, emphasis on patient care and education, and their courses in ethics and dental laws. Additionally, the state of California offers numerous networking and career opportunities in the field of dental hygiene.
It's important to consider the cost of living, tuition, job placement rates and your career goals while you weigh up your options. If you have a specific school in mind, researching their specific program requirements and speaking directly with their admissions office would provide more clarity. You should also think about visiting these colleges, virtually or in-person, to get an accurate feel for the environment and facilities. Consider reaching out to current students or alumni to gain insight into their experiences.
Good luck with your college search! You're considering a great field with a bright job outlook—dentists always need skilled dental hygienists by their side.
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