The importance of oral health cannot be overstated, and the demand for skilled dental hygienists continues to grow. If you're interested in a rewarding career in dental hygiene, the Central Georgia Technical College (CGTC) Dental Hygiene Program is an excellent choice. In this article, we'll delve into the program's overview, its benefits, and what you can expect from this esteemed institution.
Located in Warner Robins, Georgia, CGTC has been providing top-notch education and training in various fields, including healthcare, for over 50 years. The Dental Hygiene Program is just one of the many programs offered by the college, and it has gained a reputation for producing competent and compassionate dental hygienists.
Program Overview
The CGTC Dental Hygiene Program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program that prepares students for a career in dental hygiene. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in dental hygiene, including both classroom and clinical instruction. Upon completion of the program, students are eligible to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and the Clinical Licensure Examination, which are required for licensure in the state of Georgia.
Curriculum
The CGTC Dental Hygiene Program curriculum is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education in dental hygiene. The program includes courses in:
- Oral anatomy and physiology
- Dental hygiene theory and practice
- Radiology and oral pathology
- Pharmacology and pain management
- Community health and epidemiology
- Clinical dental hygiene
In addition to classroom instruction, students participate in clinical rotations at the CGTC Dental Hygiene Clinic, where they gain hands-on experience in treating patients under the supervision of licensed dental hygienists.
Benefits of the Program
There are several benefits to enrolling in the CGTC Dental Hygiene Program, including:
- Job Placement: The program has a high job placement rate, with many graduates finding employment in dental offices, clinics, and hospitals.
- Competitive Salaries: Dental hygienists are in high demand, and the salaries are competitive, with median salaries ranging from $60,000 to over $100,000 per year.
- Variety of Work Settings: Dental hygienists can work in a variety of settings, including private dental offices, clinics, hospitals, and public health organizations.
- Personal Satisfaction: A career in dental hygiene can be very rewarding, as dental hygienists play a critical role in maintaining the oral health of their patients.
Admission Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the CGTC Dental Hygiene Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Education: Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- GPA: Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Prerequisites: Applicants must complete prerequisite courses in English, math, and science.
- TEAS: Applicants must take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) and achieve a minimum score of 60.
What to Expect
As a student in the CGTC Dental Hygiene Program, you can expect:
- Challenging Curriculum: The program is designed to be challenging, but the faculty and staff are committed to helping students succeed.
- Hands-on Training: The program includes extensive hands-on training in the CGTC Dental Hygiene Clinic, where students gain practical experience in treating patients.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The program is housed in state-of-the-art facilities, including a modern dental hygiene clinic and simulation lab.
Accreditation
The CGTC Dental Hygiene Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), which is the accrediting agency for dental and dental hygiene programs in the United States.
Conclusion
The Central Georgia Technical College Dental Hygiene Program is an excellent choice for those interested in a career in dental hygiene. With its comprehensive curriculum, hands-on training, and state-of-the-art facilities, the program prepares students for a successful career in dental hygiene. If you're interested in learning more about the program, we encourage you to visit the CGTC website or contact the program directly.
What is the length of the CGTC Dental Hygiene Program?
+The CGTC Dental Hygiene Program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program.
What are the admission requirements for the CGTC Dental Hygiene Program?
+Applicants must meet the following requirements: age (18 years old), education (high school diploma or equivalent), GPA (2.5), prerequisites (English, math, and science courses), and TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills).
Is the CGTC Dental Hygiene Program accredited?
+Yes, the CGTC Dental Hygiene Program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).