Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Dental Hygiene

School of Paramedical Studies (SPACS College)

Launch a career as a primary oral healthcare professional. The SPACS College Dental Hygiene programme is a rigorous, two-year journey that combines academic excellence with hands-on-practical/laboratory and clinical mastery, preparing student to join a professional dental team immediately upon graduation.

What is a Dental Hygienist?

Dental hygienists are vital members of the dental team who focus on preventative oral care. Working closely with dentists, they treat both children and adults—including those with special needs—to prevent periodontal (gum) disease and tooth decay.

As a student, you will learn to:

• Perform professional cleanings and de-bridement.
• Administer local anesthesia and sedation.
• Take and interpret dental radiographs (X-rays).
• Apply preventative treatments like fluoride and fissure sealants.
• Educate patients on nutrition, lifestyle habits (such as smoking cessation), and home care.

The Curriculum: From Theory to Laboratory and to Clinic (internship)

Our blended learning approach (lectures fully online and practical sessions face-to-face) ensures student gain the scientific background and the manual dexterity needed for the field.

Year 1: Foundations & Clinical Entry

• Focus: Preventive and therapeutic oral care.
• Progression: You begin in the laboratory working on anatomical models and progress to supervised patient care in the clinic by the middle of the 3rd semester.
• Key Topics: Microbiology, Infection Control, Oral Pathology, Head and Neck Anatomy, and Medical Emergencies.

Year 2: Advanced Clinical Skills

• Focus: Specialized treatments and complex patient management.
• Key Topics: Administration of Local Anesthesia, Periodontology (Gum Disease), Implantology, Pediatric Dentistry, and Research Methods.

Program Goals

1. Comprehensive Care: Provide high-quality hygiene care to diverse populations across various healthcare settings.
2. Wellness Advocacy: Assume responsibility for community oral health and disease prevention.
3. Ethical Practice: Promote legal and ethical standards in patient care.
4. Lifelong Learning: Prepare graduates for advanced certifications and continued professional development.

Quick Programme Facts

• Program Code: DHG 06
• Credential: Associate of Applied Science
• Start Dates: January, May, and September.
• Duration: 2 Years (6 Semesters total) or 24 months.
• Internship: 5–6 months.
• Cost: $320,000 ( for the two years associate degree).
• Location: 5 James Avenue, Ocho Rios, St. Ann. (mainly for practical sessions)

Career Opportunities and Licensing

Graduates of the SPACS College AAS programme are entitled to register immediately with the Register of the Jamaican Dental Council. This registration is mandatory for practicing in Jamaica.

• Work Settings: General dental practices, public health services, research, or education.
• International Reach: While international regulations vary, SPACS graduates are prepared for global opportunities and may sit for the American Medical Technology (AMT)

Professional Licensing and Registration for Dental Hygienists

To ensure the highest standards of oral healthcare in Jamaica, all SPACS College Dental Hygiene graduates must complete the national licensing process before entering professional practice.

The Licensing Process

1. Examination: Upon successful completion of the AAS in Dental Hygiene at SPACS College, graduates are required to sit for the Dental Council of Jamaica (DCJ) Examination.
2. Registration: Following a passing grade on the national exam, the candidate is eligible for formal registration.
3. Licensing: Once registered, the Dental Council of Jamaica will issue a professional license. This license is the legal authorization required to practice as a Dental Hygienist within the Jamaican healthcare system.

Why is this required?

Registration and licensing with the Council ensure that all practitioners have met the rigorous educational and clinical competencies necessary to provide safe and effective preventative dental care to the public.

Note to Graduates: SPACS College is committed to preparing you for success in your professional examinations. We recommend visiting the Dental Council of Jamaica website for updated examination schedules, deadlines, and fee structures.

Graduates of the SPACS College Dental Hygiene programme will be eligible to sit for the Dental Council of Jamaica examinations upon the successful completion of the programme or institutional accreditation. This process is currently ongoing with the relevant accrediting agencies

Admission Requirements

1. Standard Entry: five subjects in CSEC (Grades 1–3 where Grade 3 is accepted after 1998), GCE (Grades A–C), or an equivalent local or international qualifications level including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry.
2. Transfer Credits: Candidates with prior tertiary certification may apply for credit exemptions following a transcript evaluation.
3. Mature Entry: Candidates aged 25+ with significant industry experience may be considered via an entrance interview and portfolio review.
4. Alternative Route: Students missing prerequisites can enroll in the General Applied Science (GAS) programme (Biology, Chemistry, and Math) while simultaneously studying their chosen course.

How to Apply

Are you ready to start your career journey in dental hygiene?

1. Online: Visit www.spacscollege.com and apply under the Admissions tab.
2. Application Fee: $3,000.
3. Resources: Download Course Outline Here https://www.spacscollege.com/download/spacs-departmental-programme-courses-semesters-schedules-2024/ | Download Application Forms Here https://my.spacscollege.com/online_admission