January 2024 Colorado Northwestern Community College (CNCC) began offering a Bachelors of Applied Science (BAS) in Dental Hygiene. The BAS in Dental Hygiene is the first ever bachelor’s degree being offered at CNCC which historically has focused on career and technical education programing, two-year associate degrees, and two-year transfer programs.
“This is Colorado Northwestern’s first ever Bachelor’s Degree, coming from its most historic program. Dental Hygiene has been a part of CNCC’s programming since the 1960’s and the department is considered one of the best in the nation. This new, 4-year degree is a tribute to the history and excellence of the Dental Hygiene program at our college.” said Keith Peterson, Vice President of Instruction.
The announcement of the BAS in Dental Hygiene is the culmination of several years of hard work by CNCC’s Dental Hygiene Department. They have worked closely with students, and industry leaders, to ensure the program meets the needs of the students and changes happening within the dental hygiene field.
“Industry standards are starting to move to bachelor’s as entry-level hygienist. The CNCC BAS program will allow graduates a greater scope and more opportunities in the dental world.” said Tiffany Douglas, Dental Hygiene Program Director. This BAS level program is designed for current CNCC associate DH students to expand into following their graduation; allowing for them to get employed in the industry prior to starting the program should
they choose.
CNCC received final sign-off on the program by its accrediting body, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), this past summer following an intensive review process this spring 2023 where HLC representative met with program faculty and staff to assess plans and program rigor.
“For me, the approval provided to offer the BAS is just one additional example of the quality of our program and the respect it has in the industry.” said Lisa Jones, President of Colorado Northwestern Community College.
Lisa Westhoff, Program Coordinator and Lead Instructor said, “What sets this program apart is its unique blend of business and healthcare courses, offering dental hygienists a diverse range of career opportunities beyond clinical practice. Designed with working professionals in mind, this asynchronous online degree allows hygienists to continue their careers while expanding their horizons in leadership, education, research, and more, ultimately supporting their pivotal role in breaking down healthcare barriers.”
The full launch of the BAS in Dental Hygiene will occur in the fall of 2024. The program will consist of nine 8-week courses taught over three semesters with the third semester culminating with a capstone project. To enroll students must have completed an associate’s degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA accredited institution.
For more information on the BAS-DH Program at CNCC visit: https://cncc.edu/degrees/rangely/dental-hygiene-bas, or please reach out to Lisa Westhoff, Lead Instructor. Lisa.westhoff@cncc.edu.
