Admission Requirements for the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) Three-Year CODA Accredited Degree

Criteria
Minimum high school Diploma or recognized equivalency certificate (GED)
Complete Admissions Process
Take the HESI Exam with a minimum score of 70%
Social Security Card

The following steps must be taken to complete the admissions process for the BS Dental Hygiene Program:

1. Admissions Application

Complete and submit the official admissions application. Any fraudulent response in the application form will result in automatic disqualification, acceptance will be revoked, and dismissal from the Program.

2. High School Diploma or GED

Along with the application, present a copy of the applicant’s high school diploma/transcript, or have the applicant’s high school send a copy of their diploma or official transcript directly to Eastern International College.

Recipients of a State Equivalency Diploma (GED) must submit a copy of the transcript of their test results with the application. Applicants whose secondary education was in a country outside the United States must obtain written official evaluation of transcripts showing equivalency from their native country, using an approved evaluating company, such as World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE).  Official electronic transcripts (e-transcripts) are accepted.

3. HESI (A2) Test

Take the entire HESI test in a single session. The HESI Test is used to assess student competencies and readiness for entry into the Dental Hygiene program. The exam has been shown to help predict the likelihood of student success in the Dental Hygiene program. Specifically, the exam tests students across several academic domains, and shows a personality profile used to help identify each applicant’s learning style. Below is an outline of the exam:

  • Reading Comprehension – Presents reading scenarios in order to measure reading comprehension; tests for skills such as identifying the main idea, finding meaning of words in context, demonstrating passage comprehension, and making logical inferences.
  • Vocabulary and General Knowledge – Contains vocabulary that is commonly used in the English language, as well as that of which is specific to the healthcare field.
  • Basic Math Skills – Centers on math skills needed for the healthcare field, including: basic addition; subtraction; multiplication; fractions; decimals; ratio and proportion; household measures; and general math facts.
  • Anatomy & Physiology – Includes general medical terminology and anatomical structures and systems.
  • Learning Style – Assesses the preferred learning style of the prospective applicant and offers test – taking and study tips suited to that learning style.
  • Chemistry – Covers the basic concepts of composition, structure and properties of substances and the transformations they undergo.

A $60.00 fee is charged per attempt for the HESI A2 Admissions Assessment. This is paid by the applicant prior to enrollment.

4. Essay

Submit a personal statement in response to an essay question drafted by the Chair of the Dental Hygiene program.

5. Proof of Citizenship/Legal Status

Submit documentation to show legal status if not a citizen of the United States.

6. Criminal Background Check

Certified verification of a negative criminal background check through Castle Branch.

7. Drug Screen

Students must undergo drug screening that verifies negative results.

8. Interview

All applicants selected for admission based on their entire application package will have a personal interview with the Dental Hygiene Admissions Committee.

Health Requirements

Students admitted to the program must have a physical examination and health clearance done by their Healthcare Provider. Complete physical examinations are required prior to registration for Introduction to Dental Hygiene (DH 100) and subsequent classes.

The student will be given a physical examination form to be completed. This form requires:

  • Physical examination with complete medical history
  • Two-step tuberculosis test (An additional single step tuberculosis test will need to be repeated prior to commencing second year clinical activities.)
  • Lab tests
  • Current titers for:
  • Rubella
  • Rubeola
  • Varicella
  • Updated immunization for tetanus (within ten years)
  • Hepatitis B immunization or written declination (signed waiver on file)
  • Polio
  • Tetanus and Diphtheria
  • Flu Vaccine

In order to meet the mandatory requirements of our affiliate agencies, all dental hygiene students must annually document proof of medical/health insurance. Insurance may be obtained through the College. An updated Mantoux test will also be required yearly.  Malpractice insurance is required to take your licensing boards and is available through the College. Appropriate fees are charged upon registration for dental hygiene courses. All  Dental Hygiene students must hold a valid CPR healthcare provider card throughout the entire period of the program.