Overview

Cerritos College has received official approval from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office to introduce a Bachelor of Science degree program in Dental Hygiene. This new program aims to provide students with the opportunity to earn a four-year degree at a significantly lower cost compared to traditional universities, promoting social mobility and reducing student debt.

The college has a longstanding history of excellence in Dental Hygiene education, having offered an Associate of Science degree for 50 years with a consistent record of student success on state exams.

Key details

  • The Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene is now officially approved.
  • The program will cost students less than $11,000.
  • Students need to complete only nine additional upper-division general education credits to obtain the bachelor’s degree.
  • Cerritos College has a 100 percent passage rate on state exams in recent years for its Associate degree program.
  • The Dental Hygiene program received the Strong Workforce Gold Star recognition in 2018.
  • Dr. Shin Liu, president of the Cerritos College Board of Trustees, emphasized the program's role in ensuring student success.
  • Dr. Jose Fierro, president/superintendent, highlighted the program's potential to close equity gaps in education.
  • Dr. Elizabeth Riley, dean of health occupations, noted the need for qualified dental hygienists and faculty in the community.
  • The program aligns with the California Community College Baccalaureate Degree Program, which allows for the introduction of up to 30 new bachelor’s degree programs annually.
  • All bachelor’s degree programs in this system do not duplicate those offered at California State University or University of California campuses.
  • The District is investing in renovations for its Health Sciences facility to support the new program.
  • The expansion aims to enhance the learning environment for students and provide modern teaching spaces for faculty.

Context

The introduction of the Bachelor’s Degree program in Dental Hygiene at Cerritos College is part of a broader initiative to expand educational opportunities within the California Community College system, addressing the growing demand for qualified professionals in the dental hygiene field.

What happens next

With the program approved, Cerritos College will begin preparations for its implementation, including the necessary renovations to the Health Sciences facility and the recruitment of faculty to ensure a successful launch.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific timeline for the program's launch and the exact curriculum have not been confirmed.