Dental Hygiene

Why Study Dental Hygiene at LSC?

Want to become a dental hygienist? Apply to the Lake Superior College dental hygiene program in Duluth, MN! Get hands-on experience working with patients in our on-site clinic. Learn the specific skills you’ll need to work in the practice of dental hygiene. You’ll graduate with a thorough understanding of dental hygiene practices. You’ll leave ready to be licensed. Take the Dental Hygiene National Board Examination and the Central Regional Clinical Examination to get your license.

The dental hygiene program provides academic and clinical educational opportunities for capable individuals to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attitude for the professional practice of dental hygiene. The curriculum focuses on basic sciences, as well as essential technical and clinical skills in preparation for providing preventive dental hygiene services to the public. Dental hygienists are preventive oral health professionals, licensed in dental hygiene, who provide educational, clinical, and therapeutic services supporting total health through the promotion of optimal oral health.

Due to the nature of the clinical experiences in the dental hygiene program, students will be participating in a work environment that has the potential of exposure to bloodborne pathogens. All students accepted into the dental hygiene program are provided with written policy and instruction on infection control protocol to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Policies and procedures on the dental hygiene program’s infection control protocol are available to all applicants upon request. Other work-related disorders associated with the practice of dental hygiene could result from repetitive activities and exposure to high decibel sounds. Advancements in design and technology in the profession are continually evolving to minimize the effects. The program complies with all institutional, local, state, and federal policies.

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Career Information

Below you will find the Career Field and Career Cluster that this program is related to. Learn more about if this career area fits your interests!

Health Science Technology

Is Health Science right for you?

Health science workers promote health and wellness. They diagnose and treat injuries and disease. As a physician, dentist, or nurse, you could work directly with patients. You could also work in a laboratory to get information used in research or provide administrative support by keeping medical records.

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$99K

$47/hr

Median annual salary/wage for
Dental Hygienists
in Minnesota

Details

9%

Projected job growth
in the next decade

Details

214K

Dental Hygienists are currently employed

Details

This data is delivered by an API from CareerOneStop, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. www.careeronestop.org Find more information including data update schedules at CareerOneStop's Data Sources (https://www.careeronestop.org/Help/data-sources.aspx). Full list of datasources.

Skills for Dental Hygienists

In order of importance

Active Listening
Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.
Importance: 69/100
Critical Thinking
Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
Importance: 63/100
Speaking
Talking to others.
Importance: 63/100
Social Perceptiveness
Understanding people's reactions.
Importance: 53/100
Writing
Writing things for co-workers or customers.
Importance: 53/100
Monitoring
Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements.
Importance: 53/100
Service Orientation
Looking for ways to help people.
Importance: 53/100
Persuasion
Talking people into changing their minds or their behavior.
Importance: 50/100
Judgment and Decision Making
Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one.
Importance: 50/100
Reading Comprehension
Reading work-related information.
Importance: 50/100
Active Learning
Figuring out how to use new ideas or things.
Importance: 50/100
Instructing
Teaching people how to do something.
Importance: 50/100
Time Management
Managing your time and the time of other people.
Importance: 50/100
Coordination
Changing what is done based on other people's actions.
Importance: 50/100
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or display screens to make sure a machine is working.
Importance: 47/100
Complex Problem Solving
Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it.
Importance: 47/100
Learning Strategies
Using the best training or teaching strategies for learning new things.
Importance: 44/100
Negotiation
Bringing people together to solve differences.
Importance: 35/100
Science
Using scientific rules and strategies to solve problems.
Importance: 35/100
Quality Control Analysis
Testing how well a product or service works.
Importance: 35/100
Management of Personnel Resources
Selecting and managing the best workers for a job.
Importance: 31/100
Operation and Control
Using equipment or systems.
Importance: 31/100
Troubleshooting
Figuring out what is causing equipment, machines, wiring, or computer programs to not work.
Importance: 31/100
Equipment Maintenance
Planning and doing the basic maintenance on equipment.
Importance: 28/100
Systems Evaluation
Measuring how well a system is working and how to improve it.
Importance: 28/100
Mathematics
Using math to solve problems.
Importance: 25/100
Systems Analysis
Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it.
Importance: 25/100
Technology Design
Making equipment and technology useful for customers.
Importance: 22/100
Repairing
Repairing machines or systems using the right tools.
Importance: 22/100
Management of Material Resources
Managing equipment and materials.
Importance: 22/100
Operations Analysis
Figuring out what a product or service needs to be able to do.
Importance: 19/100
Equipment Selection
Deciding what kind of tools and equipment are needed to do a job.
Importance: 16/100
Management of Financial Resources
Making spending decisions and keeping track of what is spent.
Importance: 13/100
Programming
Writing computer programs.
Importance: 10/100

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database (www.onetcenter.org/database.html) by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

Knowledge for Dental Hygienists

In order of importance

Medicine and Dentistry
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Importance: 90/100
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Importance: 74/100
Psychology
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Importance: 50/100
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Importance: 45/100
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Importance: 40/100
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 39/100
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Importance: 37/100
Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Importance: 36/100
Law and Government
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Importance: 33/100
Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Importance: 32/100
Sociology and Anthropology
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Importance: 30/100
Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Importance: 30/100
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 29/100
Sales and Marketing
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Importance: 27/100
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Importance: 26/100
Personnel and Human Resources
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Importance: 25/100
Communications and Media
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Importance: 24/100
Therapy and Counseling
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
Importance: 24/100
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Importance: 22/100
Administrative
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Importance: 20/100
Philosophy and Theology
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Importance: 14/100
Foreign Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Importance: 14/100
Telecommunications
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Importance: 13/100
Physics
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Importance: 11/100
Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Importance: 11/100
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Importance: 6/100
Geography
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Importance: 6/100
Economics and Accounting
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Importance: 6/100
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Importance: 4/100
Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Importance: 3/100
Food Production
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Importance: 3/100
History and Archeology
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Importance: 2/100

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database (www.onetcenter.org/database.html) by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

Physical Abilities for Dental Hygienists

In order of importance

Problem Sensitivity
Noticing when problems happen.
Importance: 72/100
Finger Dexterity
Putting together small parts with your fingers.
Importance: 72/100
Near Vision
Seeing details up close.
Importance: 72/100
Arm-Hand Steadiness
Keeping your arm or hand steady.
Importance: 72/100
Oral Comprehension
Listening and understanding what people say.
Importance: 69/100
Oral Expression
Communicating by speaking.
Importance: 69/100
Speech Recognition
Recognizing spoken words.
Importance: 56/100
Manual Dexterity
Holding or moving items with your hands.
Importance: 56/100
Speech Clarity
Speaking clearly.
Importance: 56/100
Inductive Reasoning
Making general rules or coming up with answers from lots of detailed information.
Importance: 53/100
Written Comprehension
Reading and understanding what is written.
Importance: 53/100
Perceptual Speed
Quickly comparing groups of letters, numbers, pictures, or other things.
Importance: 50/100
Category Flexibility
Grouping things in different ways.
Importance: 50/100
Control Precision
Quickly changing the controls of a machine, car, truck or boat.
Importance: 50/100
Written Expression
Communicating by writing.
Importance: 50/100
Flexibility of Closure
Seeing hidden patterns.
Importance: 50/100
Time Sharing
Doing two or more things at the same time.
Importance: 50/100
Selective Attention
Paying attention to something without being distracted.
Importance: 50/100
Deductive Reasoning
Using rules to solve problems.
Importance: 50/100
Visual Color Discrimination
Noticing the difference between colors, including shades and brightness.
Importance: 50/100
Information Ordering
Ordering or arranging things.
Importance: 50/100
Fluency of Ideas
Coming up with lots of ideas.
Importance: 47/100
Visualization
Imagining how something will look after it is moved around or changed.
Importance: 47/100
Far Vision
Seeing details that are far away.
Importance: 47/100
Multilimb Coordination
Using your arms and/or legs together while sitting, standing, or lying down.
Importance: 44/100
Originality
Creating new and original ideas.
Importance: 41/100
Extent Flexibility
Bending, stretching, twisting, or reaching with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Importance: 41/100
Trunk Strength
Using your lower back and stomach.
Importance: 35/100
Auditory Attention
Paying attention to one sound while there are other distracting sounds.
Importance: 31/100
Mathematical Reasoning
Choosing the right type of math to solve a problem.
Importance: 28/100
Speed of Closure
Quickly knowing what you are looking at.
Importance: 28/100
Memorization
Remembering words, numbers, pictures, or steps.
Importance: 28/100
Stamina
Exercising for a long time without getting out of breath.
Importance: 28/100
Gross Body Equilibrium
Keeping your balance or staying upright.
Importance: 28/100
Wrist-Finger Speed
Making fast, simple, repeated movements of your fingers, hands, and wrists.
Importance: 28/100
Number Facility
Adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing.
Importance: 28/100
Hearing Sensitivity
Telling the difference between sounds.
Importance: 28/100
Gross Body Coordination
Moving your arms, legs, and mid-section together while your whole body is moving.
Importance: 25/100
Depth Perception
Deciding which thing is closer or farther away from you, or deciding how far away it is from you.
Importance: 25/100
Reaction Time
Quickly moving your hand, finger, or foot based on a sound, light, picture or other command.
Importance: 25/100
Dynamic Strength
Exercising for a long time without your muscles getting tired.
Importance: 25/100
Static Strength
Lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying.
Importance: 25/100
Rate Control
Changing when and how fast you move based on how something else is moving.
Importance: 22/100
Response Orientation
Quickly deciding if you should move your hand, foot, or other body part.
Importance: 19/100
Explosive Strength
Jumping, sprinting, or throwing something.
Importance: 6/100

The O*NET database contains a rich set of variables that describe work and worker characteristics, including skill requirements.

Occupation data (titles, sample titles, descriptions, daily work activities, knowledge, skills, abilities, tasks, related occupations, technologies and tools, and work values) come from the O*NET 29.0 Database (www.onetcenter.org/database.html) by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Current as of October 2024.

Plan Your Education

The Dental Hygiene Program Guide is a tool to help you map out how to successfully get your degree at Lake Superior College.

View approximate total tuition and fees for MN residents to complete this degree.

This program may be completed in 2 years if prerequisites are complete.

This program has additional entry requirements.

The Dental Hygiene Program Application Window was Open December 26, 2025 - January 22, 2026.

You must first be admitted as an LSC student and declare Dental Hygiene as your major before applying to this program.

Not an accepted LSC student yet? Be sure to Apply FOR FREE to LSC and gain admission before applying to this program.

Paying for College

Lake Superior College$5,931 LSC IceHawks Logo

Minnesota State Colleges$6,444

Minnesota State Universities$10,643

University of Minnesota$14,928

Minnesota Private Colleges and Universities$44,928

*Based on average 2025-26 tuition and fees. For the exact costs, contact the institution that interests you. Does not include room and board.

Financial Aid Tuition and Fees Scholarships

Program Participation Requirements

Pre-program Requirements

Successful entry into this program requires a specific level of skill in the areas of English, mathematics, and reading. Program entry will depend, in part, on meeting the prerequisites listed below.

English/Reading:

Eligible for ENGL 1106 College Composition I, or
Completion of ENGL/READ 0950/0955 (or equivalent or higher). ENGL/READ 0950/0955 may not be taken concurrently with Semester I coursework.

Mathematics:

Eligible for MATH 0970 Intermediate Algebra, or,
Completion of MATH 0950/0955 (or equivalent or higher). MATH 0950/0955 may not be taken concurrently with Semester I coursework.

There are other ways to qualify. Visit Course Placement to find out more.

NOTE: You will need a recent physical examination including current immunizations and a current negative Tuberculosis (TB) screening. Current certification in American Heart Association: BLS Healthcare Provider or American Red Cross: BLS/CPR for Healthcare Providers is required upon acceptance. ALTH1430 will satisfy this requirement. Background Study approval is required from the State of Minnesota. Students must complete 20 hours of a job shadowing experience prior to taking any DENH courses.

Pre-Program Courses

Course	Title	Credits
Close Dialog BIOL 1140 Human Anatomy and Physiology I A study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body with emphasis on the relationship between structure and function. Topics studied are tissues, integumentary system, skeletal system, articulations, muscle system, nervous system, and special senses. BIOL 1140	Close Dialog BIOL 1140 Human Anatomy and Physiology I A study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body with emphasis on the relationship between structure and function. Topics studied are tissues, integumentary system, skeletal system, articulations, muscle system, nervous system, and special senses. Human Anatomy and Physiology I	4
Close Dialog BIOL 1141 Human Anatomy and Physiology II Continued study of body structure and function. Incorporates principles of chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. A study of the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, and r BIOL 1141	Close Dialog BIOL 1141 Human Anatomy and Physiology II Continued study of body structure and function. Incorporates principles of chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. A study of the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, immune system, respiratory system, urinary system, digestive system, and r Human Anatomy and Physiology II	4
Close Dialog BIOL 1170 Microbiology This course includes study of classification, structure and function of microbes with an emphasis on microbes that cause disease. Topics include microbial metabolism and growth, control of microbes, microbial genetics, and basic laboratory techniques used BIOL 1170	Close Dialog BIOL 1170 Microbiology This course includes study of classification, structure and function of microbes with an emphasis on microbes that cause disease. Topics include microbial metabolism and growth, control of microbes, microbial genetics, and basic laboratory techniques used Microbiology	3
Close Dialog CHEM 1110 Aspects of Chemistry I An introduction to the study of chemistry and its applications requiring a minimum of mathematics. The topics of this course include an introduction to stoichiometry, nomenclature, bonding, gas laws, and acids and bases. This course is intended primaril CHEM 1110	Close Dialog CHEM 1110 Aspects of Chemistry I An introduction to the study of chemistry and its applications requiring a minimum of mathematics. The topics of this course include an introduction to stoichiometry, nomenclature, bonding, gas laws, and acids and bases. This course is intended primaril Aspects of Chemistry I	3
Close Dialog ENGL 1106 College Composition I First semester college-level composition course focusing on writing expository prose using word processing as a tool for composing. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical reading, developing a voice, and grammar review. Presupposes competency in ENGL 1106 or Close Dialog ENGL 1109 College Composition II Second semester college-level composition course focusing on academic writing using primary and secondary sources, including basic research using print and electronic sources. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical analysis, summarizing, research, ENGL 1109	Close Dialog ENGL 1106 College Composition I First semester college-level composition course focusing on writing expository prose using word processing as a tool for composing. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical reading, developing a voice, and grammar review. Presupposes competency in College Composition I or Close Dialog ENGL 1109 College Composition II Second semester college-level composition course focusing on academic writing using primary and secondary sources, including basic research using print and electronic sources. Emphasis is on writing as a process, critical analysis, summarizing, research, College Composition II	3
Close Dialog PSYC 1135 Lifespan Developmental Psychology A scientific, theoretical, and historical examination of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development across the lifespan with a focus on individual and group (e.g., race, class, gender) similarities and differences across American society and c PSYC 1135 or Close Dialog PSYC 1120 General Psychology A general education course which will familiarize the student with the basic principles of psychology, present a practical application of these principles, show how psychologists employ the scientific method, and equip the beginning student of psychology PSYC 1120	Close Dialog PSYC 1135 Lifespan Developmental Psychology A scientific, theoretical, and historical examination of physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development across the lifespan with a focus on individual and group (e.g., race, class, gender) similarities and differences across American society and c Lifespan Developmental Psychology or Close Dialog PSYC 1120 General Psychology A general education course which will familiarize the student with the basic principles of psychology, present a practical application of these principles, show how psychologists employ the scientific method, and equip the beginning student of psychology General Psychology	3

Required Courses

*Courses may require a prerequisite. Refer to the course outline or check with an advisor.

Program Outcomes

To prepare graduates with the knowledge and clinical competence required to provide current comprehensive dental hygiene services.
Interact effectively with patients, peers, and dental health care members utilizing professional, written, and oral communication.
Develop an identity of self, supportive of continuous learning and professional endeavor.
Exhibit ethical behavior consistent with professional conduct.
Initiate and assume responsibility for health promotion and disease prevention activities.
Acquire and synthesize information in a critical, scientific, and effective manner.

Accreditation

The Lake Superior College Dental hygiene program is going through reaccreditation through Commission on Dental Accreditation (CoDA). You may request a written copy of the standards from CoDA by calling 1-312-440-4653 or by email. Please see the link for contact information. All public comments must be emailed to the appropriate Commission staff. Comments should not be sent to the Commission office via the US Postal Service.

Important

Qualified applicants should be aware that program class sizes are limited, which may delay acceptance into the program.

General Education courses that are required may be taken prior to entering the program, as long as the specific prerequisites for that course have been met. Please check with your advisor. All courses in the program need to be completed with a grade of “C” or better to progress into the next semester.

Admission to the Dental Hygiene Program is competitive, based on pre-program course GPA.

Prior to application to the program, all pre-program courses listed above must be completed with a grade of “C” or better. The minimum cumulative GPA of pre-program courses must be 3.0 or better.

Resources

Community Resources

If you are interested in helping our students learn and getting low-cost dental hygiene services:

SIGN UP FOR A DENTAL HYGIENE CLINIC

Program Resources

Career Resources

Want to Learn More?

Contact Student Services at or ext. 7601 or contact Kjersta Watt, Program Director, at or .

Why Study Dental Hygiene at LSC?

Career Information

Is Health Science right for you?

$99K

$47/hr

9%

214K

Plan Your Education

This program has additional entry requirements.

Paying for College

Program Participation Requirements

Pre-program Requirements

Pre-Program Courses

Required Courses

Program Outcomes

Accreditation

Important

Resources

Community Resources

Program Resources

Career Resources

Want to Learn More?

Why LSC?

Questions?

Other Health Programs

Campus Info

Resources For

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Course	Title	Credits
Semester 1
Close Dialog DENH 1401 Dental Anatomy This lecture and laboratory course is designed to educate the dental hygiene student in dental terminology; morphological characteristics of the permanent and primary teeth; anatomical and soft tissue landmarks; structure and function of the teeth and ass DENH 1401	Close Dialog DENH 1401 Dental Anatomy This lecture and laboratory course is designed to educate the dental hygiene student in dental terminology; morphological characteristics of the permanent and primary teeth; anatomical and soft tissue landmarks; structure and function of the teeth and ass Dental Anatomy	2
Close Dialog DENH 1405 Developmental Head & Neck Anatomy This course blends anatomy, embryology, and histology in a study of the gross and microscopic structures of the head and neck. Practical applications are related to clinical cases in the dental field. (Prerequisites: All pre-technical requirements comple DENH 1405	Close Dialog DENH 1405 Developmental Head & Neck Anatomy This course blends anatomy, embryology, and histology in a study of the gross and microscopic structures of the head and neck. Practical applications are related to clinical cases in the dental field. (Prerequisites: All pre-technical requirements comple Developmental Head & Neck Anatomy	2
Close Dialog DENH 1420 Dental Hygiene Theory and Practice I This course introduces the student to the dental hygiene process of care with emphasis on professionalism, the theory and practice of preventive dentistry, use of preventive dental aids, infection control, patient assessment and clinical instrumentation s DENH 1420	Close Dialog DENH 1420 Dental Hygiene Theory and Practice I This course introduces the student to the dental hygiene process of care with emphasis on professionalism, the theory and practice of preventive dentistry, use of preventive dental aids, infection control, patient assessment and clinical instrumentation s Dental Hygiene Theory and Practice I	5
Close Dialog DENH 1425 Dental Hygiene Practice I SimLab This supervised simulation laboratory course provides the student with the opportunity to practice oral physiotherapy aids, patient operator positioning, and dental hygiene instrumentation skills on a mannequin prior to clinical practice. (Prerequisites: DENH 1425	Close Dialog DENH 1425 Dental Hygiene Practice I SimLab This supervised simulation laboratory course provides the student with the opportunity to practice oral physiotherapy aids, patient operator positioning, and dental hygiene instrumentation skills on a mannequin prior to clinical practice. (Prerequisites: Dental Hygiene Practice I SimLab	1
Close Dialog DENH 1470 Medical and Dental Emergencies This course emphasizes reduction of risk for emergencies and familiarity with critical steps in prevention, preparation, early recognition and appropriate management of common medical emergencies in a dental setting. Medical terminology is also included i DENH 1470	Close Dialog DENH 1470 Medical and Dental Emergencies This course emphasizes reduction of risk for emergencies and familiarity with critical steps in prevention, preparation, early recognition and appropriate management of common medical emergencies in a dental setting. Medical terminology is also included i Medical and Dental Emergencies	1
Close Dialog DENH 2550 Community Dental Health This course introduces students to the disciplines and principles of dental public health, ethical principles governing health care, principles of professional and oral communications, epidemiologic methods, and biostatistical measurement and analysis. R DENH 2550	Close Dialog DENH 2550 Community Dental Health This course introduces students to the disciplines and principles of dental public health, ethical principles governing health care, principles of professional and oral communications, epidemiologic methods, and biostatistical measurement and analysis. R Community Dental Health	2
Close Dialog COMM 1100 Introduction to Communication This course introduces students to the concepts, models, and theories of human communication and their application to interpersonal, small group, and public speaking situations. MTC goal areas: (1) Communication (Prerequisites: College-level reading) COMM 1100 or Close Dialog COMM 1105 Interpersonal Communication This course provides opportunities for students to understand the process of human communication, to assess their strengths and weaknesses as communicators, to assist them in solving problems of an interpersonal nature, and develop interaction skills for COMM 1105 or Close Dialog COMM 1110 Public Speaking This course provides opportunities for students to become familiar with a variety of techniques to develop skills in research, organization, and presentation of informative and persuasive speeches. Students should expect to reduce speech apprehension and COMM 1110	Close Dialog COMM 1100 Introduction to Communication This course introduces students to the concepts, models, and theories of human communication and their application to interpersonal, small group, and public speaking situations. MTC goal areas: (1) Communication (Prerequisites: College-level reading) Introduction to Communication or Close Dialog COMM 1105 Interpersonal Communication This course provides opportunities for students to understand the process of human communication, to assess their strengths and weaknesses as communicators, to assist them in solving problems of an interpersonal nature, and develop interaction skills for Interpersonal Communication or Close Dialog COMM 1110 Public Speaking This course provides opportunities for students to become familiar with a variety of techniques to develop skills in research, organization, and presentation of informative and persuasive speeches. Students should expect to reduce speech apprehension and Public Speaking	3
Semester 2
Close Dialog DENH 1505 General and Oral Pathology This course covers the study of general and oral disease processes including inflammatory and immunological responses, and the process of wound healing and repair. Special emphasis is placed on the recognition of abnormalities, neoplasms, and the clinical DENH 1505	Close Dialog DENH 1505 General and Oral Pathology This course covers the study of general and oral disease processes including inflammatory and immunological responses, and the process of wound healing and repair. Special emphasis is placed on the recognition of abnormalities, neoplasms, and the clinical General and Oral Pathology	2
Close Dialog DENH 1511 Dental Materials This course introduces students to preventive, diagnostic and restorative materials used in modern dentistry, including: chemical/physical composition, properties, appropriate uses, safe handling, and proper manipulation of materials. Students participate DENH 1511	Close Dialog DENH 1511 Dental Materials This course introduces students to preventive, diagnostic and restorative materials used in modern dentistry, including: chemical/physical composition, properties, appropriate uses, safe handling, and proper manipulation of materials. Students participate Dental Materials	4
Close Dialog DENH 1520 Dental Hygiene Theory II This course is designed to continue the student's education in dental hygiene patient care to include the management of patients with special needs, patient communication and fluoride treatment modalities. Active learning in evidence-based dental hygiene DENH 1520*	Close Dialog DENH 1520 Dental Hygiene Theory II This course is designed to continue the student's education in dental hygiene patient care to include the management of patients with special needs, patient communication and fluoride treatment modalities. Active learning in evidence-based dental hygiene Dental Hygiene Theory II	2
Close Dialog DENH 1528 Dental Hygiene Practice II This supervised clinic course provides students with the opportunity to practice clinical procedures to include patient assessments, planning, implementation and evaluation. Additional focus includes instrumentation, fluoride therapy, radiographs, and exp DENH 1528	Close Dialog DENH 1528 Dental Hygiene Practice II This supervised clinic course provides students with the opportunity to practice clinical procedures to include patient assessments, planning, implementation and evaluation. Additional focus includes instrumentation, fluoride therapy, radiographs, and exp Dental Hygiene Practice II	4
Close Dialog DENH 1530 Dental Radiology This course is designed to prepare the dental hygiene student in the art and science of producing intraoral radiographic surveys. Course content includes theoretical concepts of radiation physics and biology; radiation protection; characteristics of radia DENH 1530	Close Dialog DENH 1530 Dental Radiology This course is designed to prepare the dental hygiene student in the art and science of producing intraoral radiographic surveys. Course content includes theoretical concepts of radiation physics and biology; radiation protection; characteristics of radia Dental Radiology	3
Close Dialog DENH 1560 Periodontology I This course provides a study of the histology, pathogenesis, dental hygiene diagnosis, risk indicators, epidemiology and treatment of periodontal disease. (Prerequisites: Completion of all precious semester courses) (1 hr lec/0 hrs lab/0 hrs OJT) DENH 1560	Close Dialog DENH 1560 Periodontology I This course provides a study of the histology, pathogenesis, dental hygiene diagnosis, risk indicators, epidemiology and treatment of periodontal disease. (Prerequisites: Completion of all precious semester courses) (1 hr lec/0 hrs lab/0 hrs OJT) Periodontology I	1
Semester 3
Close Dialog DENH 2401 Pharmacology for the Dental Hygienist This course is designed to educate the dental hygiene student with applying pharmacology knowledge to dental hygiene clinical practice. (Prerequisites: Completion of all previous semester courses) (2 hrs lec/0 hrs lab/0 hrs OJT) DENH 2401	Close Dialog DENH 2401 Pharmacology for the Dental Hygienist This course is designed to educate the dental hygiene student with applying pharmacology knowledge to dental hygiene clinical practice. (Prerequisites: Completion of all previous semester courses) (2 hrs lec/0 hrs lab/0 hrs OJT) Pharmacology for the Dental Hygienist	2
Close Dialog DENH 2420 Dental Hygiene Theory III This course is designed to be a continuation of Dental Hygiene Theory II (DENH1520) with emphasis on scientific principles, advanced dental hygiene skills, utilization of professional judgment and providing optimal comprehensive dental hygiene patient man DENH 2420	Close Dialog DENH 2420 Dental Hygiene Theory III This course is designed to be a continuation of Dental Hygiene Theory II (DENH1520) with emphasis on scientific principles, advanced dental hygiene skills, utilization of professional judgment and providing optimal comprehensive dental hygiene patient man Dental Hygiene Theory III	2
Close Dialog DENH 2428 Dental Hygiene Practice III This course is a continuation of Dental Hygiene Practice II (DENH1528) with supervised clinical experiences, which incorporates practice management, radiographic interpretation and oral health promotion and disease prevention. Active learning will involve DENH 2428	Close Dialog DENH 2428 Dental Hygiene Practice III This course is a continuation of Dental Hygiene Practice II (DENH1528) with supervised clinical experiences, which incorporates practice management, radiographic interpretation and oral health promotion and disease prevention. Active learning will involve Dental Hygiene Practice III	6
Close Dialog DENH 2431 Radiographic Interpretation This course is an advanced study of the principles of radiographic interpretation which recognizes the limitations and benefits of dental radiography in evaluating periodontal disease, dental caries, anatomical abnormalities, and pathological conditions. DENH 2431	Close Dialog DENH 2431 Radiographic Interpretation This course is an advanced study of the principles of radiographic interpretation which recognizes the limitations and benefits of dental radiography in evaluating periodontal disease, dental caries, anatomical abnormalities, and pathological conditions. Radiographic Interpretation	2
Close Dialog DENH 2460 Periodontology II This course is designed to expand the knowledge of the dental hygiene student in the field of periodontology. Areas of discussion include innovations in nonsurgical and surgical therapy, comprehensive periodontal assessment, clinical decision making outc DENH 2460	Close Dialog DENH 2460 Periodontology II This course is designed to expand the knowledge of the dental hygiene student in the field of periodontology. Areas of discussion include innovations in nonsurgical and surgical therapy, comprehensive periodontal assessment, clinical decision making outc Periodontology II	2
Close Dialog DENH 2501 Pain Management This lecture and clinical course educates students in the use of nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia and local anesthesia. Course content emphasizes assessment, pharmacology, anatomy, physiology and emergency procedures. Clinical experiences develop skills in DENH 2501	Close Dialog DENH 2501 Pain Management This lecture and clinical course educates students in the use of nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia and local anesthesia. Course content emphasizes assessment, pharmacology, anatomy, physiology and emergency procedures. Clinical experiences develop skills in Pain Management	2
Semester 4
Close Dialog DENH 2520 Dental Hygiene Theory IV This course is designed to be a continuation of DENH2420 Dental Hygiene Theory III with emphasis on case based learning, the development and presentation of a case study and ethical dilemma, and completion of a program portfolio. The integration of case s DENH 2520	Close Dialog DENH 2520 Dental Hygiene Theory IV This course is designed to be a continuation of DENH2420 Dental Hygiene Theory III with emphasis on case based learning, the development and presentation of a case study and ethical dilemma, and completion of a program portfolio. The integration of case s Dental Hygiene Theory IV	2
Close Dialog DENH 2528 Dental Hygiene Practice IV This course is a continuation of Dental Hygiene Practice III (DENH2428) with supervised clinical experiences. Advanced enhancement in critical thinking decision-making skills are integrated during the provision of patient care and management to diverse p DENH 2528	Close Dialog DENH 2528 Dental Hygiene Practice IV This course is a continuation of Dental Hygiene Practice III (DENH2428) with supervised clinical experiences. Advanced enhancement in critical thinking decision-making skills are integrated during the provision of patient care and management to diverse p Dental Hygiene Practice IV	6
Close Dialog HPER 1302 Nutrition This course examines the principles of human nutrition with an emphasis on nutrients, food sources, and their utilization in the body for growth, health maintenance and disease prevention. Students will also evaluate contemporary issues, dietary behavior HPER 1302	Close Dialog HPER 1302 Nutrition This course examines the principles of human nutrition with an emphasis on nutrients, food sources, and their utilization in the body for growth, health maintenance and disease prevention. Students will also evaluate contemporary issues, dietary behavior Nutrition	3
Close Dialog SOC 1111 Introduction to Sociology This course involves both an explanation of and active practice in using the sociological imagination to examine the world around us. It introduces Sociology as a discipline and sociological ways of understanding human social interaction and processes suc SOC 1111	Close Dialog SOC 1111 Introduction to Sociology This course involves both an explanation of and active practice in using the sociological imagination to examine the world around us. It introduces Sociology as a discipline and sociological ways of understanding human social interaction and processes suc Introduction to Sociology	3
Total:		82

Dental Hygiene

Why Study Dental Hygiene at LSC?

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$99K

$47/hr

9%

214K

Median Annual Salary/Wage Earnings for Dental Hygienists

the United States

$94K

$45/hr

Minnesota

$99K

$47/hr

Duluth, MN Area

$85K

$40/hr

Projected 10-Year Job Growth for Dental Hygienists

the United States

9%

Minnesota

6%

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the United States

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