The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) School of Dentistry offers a highly respected Dental Hygiene program that prepares students for a rewarding career in oral healthcare. If you're interested in applying to the UMKC Dental Hygiene program, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the application process, requirements, and tips to increase your chances of acceptance.
Why Choose UMKC Dental Hygiene Program?
Before we dive into the application process, let's explore what makes the UMKC Dental Hygiene program stand out. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider this program:
- Accreditation: The UMKC Dental Hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), ensuring that you'll receive a high-quality education that meets industry standards.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: The UMKC School of Dentistry features modern clinics and laboratories, providing students with hands-on experience and exposure to the latest technology.
- Experienced Faculty: The program's faculty consists of experienced dental hygiene professionals who are dedicated to teaching and mentoring students.
- Location: Kansas City is a vibrant city with a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for students who want to pursue a degree without breaking the bank.
Application Requirements
To apply to the UMKC Dental Hygiene program, you'll need to meet the following requirements:
- GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required for admission.
- Prerequisite Courses: You'll need to complete a set of prerequisite courses, including:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- English Composition
- Psychology
- Observation Hours: You'll need to complete a minimum of 20 hours of observation in a dental hygiene clinic.
- TEAS Exam: You'll need to take the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam and achieve a minimum score of 60.
- Letters of Recommendation: You'll need to submit two letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources.
Application Process
Once you've met the requirements, you can start the application process. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Submit Your Application: Apply online through the UMKC website. Be sure to submit your application by the deadline, which is typically February 1st for the fall semester.
- Pay the Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee of $50.
- Submit Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all previous colleges or universities attended.
- Submit Prerequisite Course Documentation: Submit documentation showing completion of prerequisite courses.
- Submit Observation Hours Documentation: Submit documentation showing completion of observation hours.
- Submit TEAS Exam Scores: Submit your TEAS exam scores.
- Submit Letters of Recommendation: Submit two letters of recommendation.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Acceptance
While admission to the UMKC Dental Hygiene program is competitive, there are several things you can do to increase your chances of acceptance:
- Maintain a High GPA: A strong GPA will make your application more competitive.
- Gain Observation Hours: Completing observation hours will demonstrate your commitment to the field and provide valuable experience.
- Prepare for the TEAS Exam: Prepare thoroughly for the TEAS exam to ensure you achieve a competitive score.
- Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation: Ask academic or professional sources who know you well to write strong letters of recommendation.
Program Curriculum
The UMKC Dental Hygiene program is a four-year bachelor's degree program that includes both classroom and clinical instruction. Here's an overview of the program curriculum:
- First Year: Introduction to dental hygiene, anatomy and physiology, and chemistry.
- Second Year: Biochemistry, microbiology, and pharmacology.
- Third Year: Clinical practice, patient assessment, and treatment planning.
- Fourth Year: Advanced clinical practice, case management, and professional development.
Clinical Experience
The UMKC Dental Hygiene program provides students with extensive clinical experience, including:
- UMKC Dental Clinic: Students gain hands-on experience in the UMKC Dental Clinic, working with patients and faculty.
- Community Clinics: Students participate in community clinics, providing care to underserved populations.
- Specialty Clinics: Students gain experience in specialty clinics, such as pediatric and geriatric dentistry.
Gallery of UMKC Dental Hygiene Program
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for applying to the UMKC Dental Hygiene program?
+The deadline for applying to the UMKC Dental Hygiene program is February 1st for the fall semester.
What are the prerequisite courses for the UMKC Dental Hygiene program?
+The prerequisite courses for the UMKC Dental Hygiene program include anatomy and physiology, chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, English composition, and psychology.
How many observation hours are required for the UMKC Dental Hygiene program?
+A minimum of 20 hours of observation in a dental hygiene clinic is required for admission to the UMKC Dental Hygiene program.
We hope this guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the UMKC Dental Hygiene program and the application process. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to the UMKC School of Dentistry. Good luck with your application!