Why Northern Arizona University’s Dental Hygiene Program is an Excellent Choice for Future RDHs

Are you aspiring to become a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH)? Northern Arizona University (NAU) offers a top-notch dental hygiene program that could be your gateway to a rewarding career in oral healthcare. Here’s why NAU should be at the top of your list:

1. Accreditation and Recognition

NAU’s dental hygiene program is fully accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous standards and effectively prepares students for their future careers.

2. Bachelor’s Degree Offering

Unlike many community college programs, NAU offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. This four-year degree provides a more comprehensive education and can open doors to advanced career opportunities in research, education, and public health.

3. State-of-the-Art Facilities

The program boasts modern facilities equipped with the latest dental technology. Students gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools and equipment, ensuring they’re well-prepared for the evolving field of dental hygiene.

4. Experienced and Research-Active Faculty

NAU’s dental hygiene program is staffed by experienced professionals who are not only excellent educators but also active researchers in the field. This means students benefit from the latest insights and advancements in dental hygiene.

5. Comprehensive Curriculum

The program offers a well-rounded education covering all aspects of dental hygiene, including:

• Advanced oral anatomy and physiology
• Dental radiography and imaging
• Periodontics
• Pharmacology
• Public health dentistry
• Clinical skills and techniques
• Research methods in dental hygiene

6. Extensive Clinical Experience

Students at NAU benefit from significant hands-on clinical experience. The on-campus dental clinic allows students to treat real patients under faculty supervision, building confidence and competence in a supportive environment.

7. Community Engagement and Outreach

NAU’s program emphasizes community service and outreach. Students participate in various community health programs, gaining valuable experience while making a positive impact on the local community’s oral health. This includes outreach to rural and Native American communities in Arizona.

8. Research Opportunities

As a university program, NAU offers undergraduate research opportunities in dental hygiene. This experience can be invaluable for students considering graduate studies or a career in dental research.

9. Interprofessional Education

NAU’s program incorporates interprofessional education, allowing dental hygiene students to collaborate with students from other healthcare disciplines. This approach prepares students for the team-based nature of modern healthcare.

10. Preparation for Licensure and Graduate Studies

The program is designed to thoroughly prepare students for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and regional clinical examinations. Additionally, the bachelor’s degree prepares students for graduate studies in dental hygiene or related fields.

11. Career Support Services

NAU offers robust career services to help students transition into the workforce. From resume building to job search assistance, the university supports students in launching their careers.

12. Beautiful Campus Location

Located in Flagstaff, Arizona, NAU offers students the opportunity to study in a beautiful mountain town. The area’s natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities provide an excellent quality of life for students.

13. Diverse Student Body

NAU prides itself on its diverse student population, providing a rich learning environment where students can interact with peers from various backgrounds. This diversity prepares students to work effectively with a wide range of patients in their future careers.

14. Sustainability Focus

NAU is known for its commitment to sustainability, which is reflected in its dental hygiene program. Students learn about eco-friendly practices in dental care, preparing them for the growing trend of green dentistry.

15. Global Learning Opportunities

NAU offers study abroad and international service-learning opportunities, allowing dental hygiene students to gain a global perspective on oral health care.

Choosing Northern Arizona University for your dental hygiene education means investing in a comprehensive, bachelor’s-level program that will prepare you for a successful and potentially advanced career as a Registered Dental Hygienist. With its combination of rigorous academics, extensive clinical experience, research opportunities, and community focus, NAU offers an educational experience that stands out from the crowd.

Are you ready to take the first step towards an exciting career in dental hygiene? Contact NAU’s admissions office today to learn more about the dental hygiene program and how to apply!