
| Location(s): |
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| Length:
76 weeks:
Year 1 - 38 weeks; Year 2 - 38 weeks |
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There has been a dramatic increase in the number of dental hygienists in Canada over the past 40 years. This increase is a sign of the growing importance our society is placing on oral health . . . and of the prominent role dental hygienists play on today's oral health care teams.
Dental Hygiene is a nationally accredited two-year diploma program that emphasizes a practical approach to learning. Classroom and lab work combined with clinical experiences and health promotion activities prepare you to deliver a high standard of service in assessment and diagnosis as well as planning, implementation and evaluation of dental hygiene care.
Your studies will focus on:
Hands-on learning in the dental clinic at SIAST Wascana Campus (Regina) is a highlight of the program. The clinic gives you a chance to build your skills and confidence under the supervision of licensed professionals. First-hand experience in clinical care, assessment of oral health, instruction in oral self-care, dental x-rays and more will enable you to seamlessly integrate classroom learning with actual practice.
Note
This program is open for application from 8:00 a.m., October 1 to 4:30 p.m., February 15 (Saskatchewan times) each academic year. All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time), February 28(29).
International applicants are not currently considered for admission to this high-demand program.
Did you know?
The Dental Hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada. Graduates are eligible for licensure by the Saskatchewan Dental Hygienists' Association. You're also eligible to write the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board exam and American National Board exam.
How does it fit?
Dental hygiene is a career that demands excellent manual dexterity and good "people skills".? You have to be able to work well with others in a team environment. Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills are vital, because a big part of your job is effectively assessing clients and providing treatment plans. Lifelong learning is an important part of the profession. As licensed practitioners, dental hygienists must participate in continuing education to stay abreast of changes in oral health technology and techniques.
Dental hygienists help meet the oral wellness needs of a wide range of clients, from the very young to the very old. Practitioners are in demand for their skills in delivering preventative, educational and therapeutic dental hygiene services. Your first job might be in a private dental office, community health clinic, educational facility or health care institution. You might also find employment with a research facility or government agency.
For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the SIAST campus nearest you.
*Previous Saskatchewan mathematics requirement also accepted:
Note
High-demand programs consistently have more applicants than spaces available at each SIAST location at which they are offered. High-demand programs have admission requirements plus additional selection criteria. The application period for high-demand programs is 8:00 a.m., October 1, to 4:30 p.m., February 15 (Saskatchewan times), each academic year. All supporting documentation is required by 4:30 p.m. (Saskatchewan time), February 28(29).
* SIAST must receive your Candidate Portfolio by April 15.
For more information about the admission requirements and selection criteria for this
program, refer to the Dental Hygiene Frequently Asked Questions.
For required information on preparing your application, refer to the Dental Hygiene Program Portfolio Guide.
You may find it helpful to print extra copies of the Validation Form for Work/Volunteer Experiences.
SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training. Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Factsheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.
Many SIAST students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. To learn more, visit our transfer credit web page.
Year 2 Students: Because the Dental Hygiene program has recently been revised, students entering year 2 in 2012/13 need to refer to the SIAST Calendar 2011/12 for course details.
SIAST is Saskatchewan's primary public institution for post-secondary technical education and skills training, recognized nationally and internationally for its expertise and innovation. Through program and course registrations, SIAST serves 26,000 distinct students with programs that touch every sector of the economy. SIAST operates campuses in Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and provides a number of courses and programs through distance education.