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What to Ask Dental Hygienist Colleges
Now that you have decided to become a dental hygienist in Oshtemo MI, you can start the procedure of comparing schools and programs. As we discussed at the opening of this article, many students start by looking at the cost and the location of the schools. Perhaps they look for several online alternatives as well. Although these may be significant initial factors to consider, there are a few additional questions that you need to address to the programs you are reviewing in order to arrive at an informed decision. Toward that end, we have provided a list of questions to help you with your due diligence and ultimate selection of the ideal dental hygienist college for you.
Is the Dental School Accredited? There are several valid reasons why you should only enroll in an accredited dental hygienist program. If you are going to become licensed or certified, then accreditation is a condition in almost all states. To qualify to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam, your dental program must be accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CDA). Accreditation also helps ensure that the training you get is of the highest quality and comprehensive. Oshtemo MI employers often prefer or require that job applicants are graduates of accredited programs. And last, if you are requesting financial aid or a student loan, frequently they are not available for non-accredited programs.
Is Enough Clinical Training Provided? Clinical or practical training is an essential part of any dental training program. This applies for the online school options also. Many dental hygienist programs have relationships with regional dental offices and clinics that provide practical training for their students. It's not only important that the school you choose provides enough clinical hours but also provides them in the type of practice that you ultimately want to work in. As an example, if you have an interest in a career in pediatric dentistry, confirm that the program you choose offers clinical rotation in a local Oshtemo MI dental practice that specializes in dental treatment for children.
Is There an Internship Program? Find out if the dental colleges you are considering have internship programs. Internships are undoubtedly the best way to obtain hands-on, practical experience in a professional dental practice. They make it easier for students to transition from the theoretical to the practical. They can also help students create professional relationships in the Oshtemo MI dentistry community. And they look good on resumes as well.
Is Job Placement Support Provided? Many graduating students of dental hygienist schools require help obtaining their first job. Ask if the programs you are looking at have job assistance programs, and what their job placement rates are. Colleges with high job placement rates probably have excellent reputations within the Oshtemo MI dental profession as well as large networks of contacts where they can place their students for internships or employment.
Are the Classes Small? Check with the schools you are reviewing how large typically their classrooms are. The smaller classes generally provide a more personal atmosphere for learning where students have greater access to the teachers. Conversely, larger classes can be impersonal and provide little one-on-one instruction. If practical, ask if you can monitor a few classes at the Oshtemo MI dental hygienist school that you are leaning toward in order to experience first hand the level of interaction between students and teachers before making a commitment.
What is the Entire Expense of the Program? Dental hygiene programs can differ in cost dependent on the duration of the program and the volume of practical training provided. Other variables, for example the reputations of the colleges and if they are private or public also come into play. But in addition to the tuition there are other substantial expenses which can add up. They can include costs for such things as commuting and textbooks as well as school equipment, materials and supplies. So when examining the cost of schools, remember to include all of the expenses related to your education. Most schools have financial assistance offices, so be sure to ask what is offered as far as loans, grants and scholarships in the Oshtemo MI area.
Are the Classes Convenient? Before enrolling in a dental hygienist college, you must confirm that the assistant or hygienist program furnishes classes that accommodate your schedule. This is especially true if you continue working while getting your education and must go to classes near Oshtemo MI in the evenings or on weekends. And even if you select an online program, you will still need to schedule your clinical training classes. Also, while making your inquiries, ask what the make-up protocol is if you should have to miss any classes because of illness, work or family issues.
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