Vancouver — Clark College has received the green light for its first baccalaureate degree. Starting in fall 2015, the college will offer a Bachelor of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene.
The Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities approved Clark College’s proposal.
The program opens additional job opportunities to students, yet adds few additional courses to their degree plan, said Tim Cook, vice president of instruction at Clark College.
Previously, students in the Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene program spent four or more years at Clark because of rigorous requirements. Starting in 2015, students will be able to earn a bachelor’s degree in the same time. Minimal changes to the current program are required.
Students with an associate degree are typically employed in private-practice offices or clinics. The bachelor’s degree opens work in dental sales, public health and research to dental hygienists.
