THE SELECTION PROCESS

Each year, approximately 125 students apply for the dental hygiene program but only 18 can be accepted because of faculty and space requirements.  Therefore, the selection process is competitive in nature.  

Students are given "selection points" in each of three selection categories,  the Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test (maximum of 30 points), the student's grade point average in college level science courses and the number of courses taken (maximum of 41 points), and a personal interview with the selection committee (maximum of 30 points).   The 18 students with the most selection points are offered admission.  The next five students are offered alternate positions in the event a candidate does not accept their appointment. 

To receive an interview, the applicant should have a minimum reading score of 55 on the  Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test (HOBET) and a grade point average of at least a 2.50 in at least two college level science courses that have been completed within five years.  Science courses include anatomy and physiology I and II, microbiology, and nutrition.  

Chemistry is required if the applicant did not have 2 units high school chemistry with a grade of B or better.

Only courses in which the student receives a letter grade of C or better will be considered. All sciences courses must be completed within the past five years.

The HOBET test score is only valid for two years. 

Applicants must also complete 16 hours of observation in a dental office or be a dental assistant.  (Download the observation form)

Although dental hygiene is considered a two year course of study, it realistically takes at least three years because of the requirements of the selection process.