Application Process

For Your Information

1. A select application process is required for entrance into the program. Contact the Student Enrollment Services at (480) 517-8540 for application materials.
2. Thirty-six (36) students are admitted each February.
3. A full listing of the Dental Hygiene Associate Degree curriculum content is available at www.riosalado.edu.
4. Admission and Continuation in the program is contingent upon:
   1. Current CPR Healthcare Provider / Professional Rescuer
   2. Physical examination indicating no evidence which would compromise the ability of the student to participate fully in the program
   3. Vision and dental examination
   4. Fingerprinting Clearance Card
   5. Drug Screening Clearance
   6. Up-to-date immunization record including Hepatitis B vaccination and Tuberculosis testing
   7. Completion of all prerequisites prior to submission of application
   8. High school diploma or GED equivalency
5. Program transfer or course substitution is available if:
   1. Space should become available
   2. Determination of proper placement can be made by Program Director
6. The program requires that students act as patients for other students.
7. Students are responsible for the recruitment of patients for their clinical experience.
8. The student must achieve a minimum of the letter grade “C” (77%) in each of the Dental Hygiene program courses for promotion and graduation.
9. The student must possess the ability to meet program Essential Abilities Requirements for Retention and Promotion (available upon request).
10. Applicants accepted to the program are required to attend the New Student Orientation held on the first Friday of November.

Application Procedure

1. Contact an enrollment specialist at (480) 517-8540 for a dental hygiene program application. Applications will only be considered during open application from June through September.
2. Meet with an enrollment specialist to review your application.
3. The following information will be necessary to include when applications are accepted:
   (Prerequisites must be completed prior to submitting application. Applications received outside of the application time period and/or with pending classes will NOT be considered. Applicant will be notified in writing if application is not considered.)
   • Dental Hygiene Application (form must be complete)
   • ALL official transcripts from each college or university in a sealed envelope
   • If “exempt” from reading requirement, documentation of ASSET score is required
   • Course work approved through Student Enrollment Services as a waiver, substitute or equivalent must have written documentation. Verbal consent will not be accepted.
   • Documentation of dental office work experience. Obtain Experience Verification Forms from the Student Enrollment Services Office. Separate documentation is required for each employer. These forms may be copied.
   • Documentation of DANB Dental Assisting Certification or successful completion of DANB examinations (if Applicable).
   • Copy of current CPR – Healthcare Provider Card (front & back)
   • Fingerprint Clearance Card (front & back)
   • Employer Reference Form.
4. Completed dental hygiene applications will be accepted ONLY during the open application time period and through the US mail system to: Rio Salado College, Student Enrollment Services, School of Dental Hygiene, 2323 W. 14th Street, Tempe, AZ 85281.
5. A letter will be sent to the applicant indicating whether the student was accepted or denied placement in the program by mid-October.