Dental Hygiene Online Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete requirements for the BSDH?

The BSDH courses are offered to allow each student the opportunity to complete the curriculum in five semesters (entering fall semester, continuing spring, summer, fall and graduating in the following spring semester). After completion of the DHYG 3100 entry course students may select courses and proceed at their own pace.

How much does it cost ?

Tuition information is available at the Bursar's Office.

Out of state students will be interested in the opportunity for in-state tuition, access this site to learn more. This process requires a minimum of six weeks.

How does the online program work? Does the class "meet" online, like a television class?

The online classes vary in structure. All are designed for the adult learner with assignments to be completed on your schedule versus meeting at a regular class time. The assignments typically have deadlines for submission and are submitted online. Many courses include online "chats" at scheduled times, some courses require participation in discussion boards about class content and assignments. In addition, some courses still include exams which are taken and submitted online.

Why do I have to come to campus ?

The first visit to campus is required for orientation. This orientation will assist students in using the Sherrod Library online, obtain student ID, open student email, provide orientation to Blackboard, and provide an opportunity to meet classmates. Students who have not attended orientation in past years have found it difficult to get started in their first course DHYG 3100.

The Local Anesthesia and Pain Control laboratory is held at the end of the course for clinical instruction. The labs will be scheduled with graduation to allow students to attend both the lab and graduation.

How do I find out if my courses transfer?

When you apply to ETSU, you will be required to submit all college transcripts. You will receive a transcript analysis of your previous college courses. With this analysis you can determine what general education courses you will need to take to complete your BSDH.

To view general information about transferring to ETSU, go to the Undergraduate Admissions website.

Contact Ms. Linda Smith by telephone 423-439-4213 or 1-800-462-3878 if you have questions about your transcript analysis.

I have been admitted to the program, now what?

For the semester you are admitted, register for DHYG 3100 Contemporary Dental Hygiene (the link below will direct you to registration) and make plans to attend orientation, details will be on the web site.

ETSU's online eduation website is at http://online.etsu.edu/

Can I talk to a BSDH graduate of the online program?

Several of the 2003 graduates have offered to be peer advisors. Please send a request to dotsond@etsu.edu

If I am unable to progress with my class can I continue at my own pace?

Yes. After successfully completing the entry course DHYG 3100 Contemporary Dental Hygiene you may progress at your own pace completing the dental hygiene courses and general education core requirements.

What do I need to do to graduate?

1. One year prior to your anticipated graduation date, you file Intent to Graduate forms with the graduation office and complete the department major program sheets. Ffor the major program sheets please send an email to dotsond@etsu.edu to request the form.

2. All students receiving a baccalaureate degree from ETSU must complete the Academic Profile Exam. You are eligible to complete this exam after completing 106 hours. Your performance is a reflection on the program, do your best!

This exam is also available in testing centers across the country. The process may require a month to six weeks to complete so you don't want to procrastinate. After identifying a center you contact ETSU University Testing Center 423-439-7842 to forward the exam to the testing center. There are fees payable to ETSU and the testing center you select, as well as schedules for testing appointments. These arrangements require some attention AND it is easier than coming to ETSU!

All of my college credits are from a community college, does that matter?

To receive a BSDH, ETSU requires that you complete 60 semester hours from a four year institution. The required dental hygiene courses total 34 semester hours. If all of your transfer courses are from a two year institution you will need an additional 26 hours from a four year institution to receive your degree.

You may take those courses either on campus or online through ETSU, or on campus or online with another four year institution for transfer.

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