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What to Ask Dental Hygienist Programs
Now that you have decided to become a dental hygienist in Fremont OH, you can begin the process of comparing schools and programs. As we covered at the beginning of this article, a number of potential students begin by looking at the cost and the location of the colleges. Maybe they look for several online options also. Even though these are relevant initial points to consider, there are several additional questions that you should address to the colleges you are comparing in order to arrive at an informed decision. To start that process, we have included a list of questions to assist you with your due diligence and ultimate selection of the ideal dental hygienist program for you.
Is the Dental College Accredited? There are many important reasons why you should only select an accredited dental hygienist school. If you are intending to become licensed or certified, then accreditation is a requirement in almost all states. To qualify to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam, your dental school must be accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CDA). Accreditation also helps establish that the instruction you get is of the highest quality and comprehensive. Fremont OH employers frequently desire or require that job applicants are graduates of accredited colleges. And last, if you are requesting a student loan or financial aid, usually they are not offered for non-accredited colleges.
Is Adequate Clinical Training Included? Practical or clinical training is an essential part of any dental training program. This applies for the online school options also. Many dental hygienist colleges have associations with local dental practices and clinics that furnish practical training for their students. It's not only important that the school you select provides enough clinical hours but also provides them in the kind of practice that you ultimately would like to work in. As an example, if you have an interest in a career in pediatric dentistry, verify that the college you choose offers clinical rotation in a local Fremont OH dental practice that focuses on dental services for children.
Are Internships Available? Ask if the dental schools you are considering have an internship program. Internships are undoubtedly the most effective way to receive hands-on, clinical 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 build professional relationships in the Fremont OH dentistry community. And they look good on resumes also.
Is Job Placement Help Offered? Most graduating students of dental hygienist programs require assistance obtaining their first job. Find out if the programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs, and what their job placement rates are. Schools with higher job placement rates probably have excellent reputations within the Fremont OH dental profession as well as extensive networks of contacts where they can position their students for internships or employment.
Are the Classrooms Small? Ask the colleges you are interested in how big on average their classrooms are. The smaller classes generally offer a more intimate setting for training where students have increased access to the instructors. Conversely, larger classes often are impersonal and provide little one-on-one instruction. If feasible, find out if you can attend a couple of classes at the Fremont OH dental hygienist college that you are leaning toward so that you can witness first hand the level of interaction between instructors and students before making a commitment.
What is the Total Cost of the Program? Dental hygiene training can vary in cost depending on the duration of the program and the volume of clinical 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 expenses for such things as textbooks and commuting as well as school materials, equipment and supplies. So when comparing the cost of programs, remember to add all of the costs related to your education. The majority of schools have financial assistance departments, so make sure to check out what is available as far as loans, grants and scholarships in the Fremont OH area.
Are the Classes Accessible? Before enrolling in a dental hygienist school, you need to confirm that the hygienist or assistant program provides classes that fit your schedule. This is particularly true if you continue working while acquiring your education and need to attend classes near Fremont OH at nights or on weekends. And even if you select an online college, you will still have to schedule your practical training classes. Also, while making your inquiries, ask what the make-up procedure is if you should have to miss any classes due to illness, work or family responsibilities.
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