Get hands-on training to provide dental care including examinations, cleaning, polishing, and assessments while working with the public at VCC’s dental clinic.
September 2025: 1) Deadlines for submitting final transcripts have changed. See the Apply Now section for details. 2) Courses, fees, and admissions requirements are subject to change for September 2025.
If you don't meet the admissions requirements, check out our Pathway to Health Sciences program.
Dental Hygiene
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What you will learn
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Professionalism: Graduates demonstrate a commitment to the health of the public and the profession by integrating high ethical standards, best practices, and legislative requirements. Competent dental hygienists exhibit professional behaviour, demonstrate a commitment to serving society, integrate professional responsibilities into practice, and demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning.
- Evidence-Informed Practice: Graduates demonstrate a commitment to excellence in practice through critical thinking continuous learning, and application of evidence-informed decision-making. Competent dental hygienists demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving, and reasoning skills; apply and evident-informed approach to decision-making; and use various methods of inquiry.
- Communication: Graduates demonstrate the ability to form relationships with individuals, families, groups, and communities to facilitate the gathering and sharing of essential information for culturally safe and relevant care. Competent dental hygienists demonstrate effective oral and non-verbal communication, and use written communication effectively.
- Collaboration: Graduates demonstrate the ability to work as integral members of the healthcare team, working in partnership with others to provide safe, effective and ethical person-, family-, and community-centred approaches to care. Competent dental hygienists collaborate with people accessing dental hygiene services, oral health professionals, and others.
- Practice Management: Graduates demonstrate the ability to manage a professional practice environment, utilizing organization, administration, and decision-making skills that facilitate high-quality care, efficient use of time and personnel, and enhanced professional and personal satisfaction. Competent dental hygienists fulfill administrative responsibilities, integrate legislative and professional responsibilities within organizational policies, and engage in entrepreneurial activities.
- Prevention, Education, and Health Promotion: Graduates demonstrate an inclusive and intercultural approach to health and wellness. Using health promotion, education, and disease and injury prevention activities, dental hygienists help support other’s ability to achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Competent dental hygienists lead the development of health literacy and oral self-care abilities; engage in prevention, education, and health promotion activities; and engage in advocacy to address oral health inequities.
- Clinical Therapy: Graduates demonstrate the ability to provide preventive, therapeutic, and supportive dental hygiene care. Using the ADPIE framework to support safe and comprehensive person-centred care for diverse people across the lifespan.? Competent dental hygienists assess oral and general health status, formulate a dental hygiene diagnosis, create a dental hygiene care plan, implement the dental hygiene care plan, and evaluate the effectiveness of dental hygiene care.
A graduate has met the goals of the VCC Dental Hygiene Diploma program based on the Entry-to-Practice Competencies for Canadian Dental Hygienists* by reliably demonstrating knowledge, skills, and attitudes in the domains set by the
* Federation of Dental hygiene Regulators of Canada (FDHRC). Entry-To-Practice Canadian Competencies for Dental Hygienists. Available FDHRC, 2021.? Available from: https://www.fdhrc.ca/sites/files/EPCCoDH_FDHRC_November_2021.pdf
What to expect
Program Duration and Maximum Time for Completion
The dental hygiene program is two years full-time. Students are eligible to write the National Dental Hygiene Certification Exam (NDHCE) during Term 4 of the program. Students have a maximum of 3 years to complete all program requirements.
Under exceptional circumstances and at the discretion of the Dean, a student may be granted an extension.
Graduates of VCC’s Dental Hygiene diploma program are eligible to write the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board (NDHCB) examination. NDHCB certification is required to become a Registered Dental Hygienist through the BC College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) and practice dental hygiene in B.C. (additional fees apply).
The Dental Hygiene Program integrates the Entry-to-Practice National and Provincial standards and the National Competencies. These support the dental hygiene process of care by more clearly articulating the abilities inherent in the assessment, diagnosis/decision-making, planning, implementation and evaluation of dental hygiene services.
There is a focus on biomedical sciences, dental hygiene theory of practice, and behavioural sciences in the program. Instruction builds upon the knowledge and abilities of the first year university pre-requisite courses and introduces more advanced community and client care entry-to-practice level concepts in the final year.
Learning is fostered through seminars, lectures, labs, clinical practice sessions, group work, independent study, problem based learning, community outreach, and clinical rotations.
Students have opportunities to apply knowledge and practice various abilities while working with the public in the VCC Dental Clinic. In addition, rotations to a wide variety of health care and community facilities are organized for students to learn and apply abilities and knowledge in context.
Course work focuses on the development of informed decision making skills, communication skills and intra- and interprofessional teamwork strategies; as well as proficiency in self and peer evaluation. Other important curriculum threads are development of evidence-based inquiry skills, critical thinking and problem solving abilities. This focus is designed to foster the development of professionalism, a commitment to life long learning, and dedication to a self-regulating helping profession.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
Admission to the Dental Hygiene Program is through a competitive selection process. Applicants must have successfully completed at least 30 credits in first-year university level courses, or equivalents, with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 ('B'):
- ENGL 1100 & ENGL 1200, or equivalent
- Minimum 6 credits in Human Anatomy & Physiology (must include labs):
- Minimum 6 credits in Chemistry (must include labs):
- 6 credits in Psychology:
- 3 credits in Statistics:
- MATH 1111 or equivalent
- 3 credits in Electives
- Submission of a CASPer score. CASPer Test scores are only valid for one admission cycle.
Where the academic standing of applicants who have completed 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year courses in the required subject(s) is higher than that of the 1st year courses, the higher grade will be considered.
If your educational documents are not from a Canadian or American institution, you must submit an evaluation of foreign credentials. A comprehensive evaluation report, from the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) located at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) including an ICES VCC Dental Hygiene Supplemental Report is required.
Upon Acceptance:
- A current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Health Care Provider (CPR HCP) or Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Annual renewal is required while in the program and for registration as a dental hygienist in British Columbia.
- Criminal Records Check (CRC): Students in this program are required to complete a CRC. The CRC must be completed according to VCC's Criminal Record Check instructions. Students whose CRC results indicate they pose a risk to vulnerable populations will not be able to complete the requirements of the program (e.g. practicums) or graduate.
- Submission of a recent negative tuberculosis (TB) test. If the test is positive, submission of a negative TB chest x-ray report is required.
- VCC School of Health Sciences Immunization record must be completed. Immunizations in the following are strongly recommended and may be required for practice placement in the program:
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- Pertussis
- Poliomyelitis
- Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
- Varicella (Chicken Pox)
- Hepatitis B
- Meningococcal
- Influenza Vaccination (annually)
- COVID-19 Vaccination
- N95 mask fit testing will be required prior to clinical rotations to health authority locations during the final year of the program. Mask fit testing is valid for 1 year and should only be completed when directed during the dental hygiene program. Information, fee payment, and scheduling related to mask fit testing will be provided during the program.
Program-specific
Admission to the Dental Hygiene Program is through a competitive selection process. Applicants must have successfully completed at least 30 credits in first-year university level courses, or equivalents, with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 ('B'):
- ENGL 1100 & ENGL 1200, or equivalent
- Minimum 6 credits in Human Anatomy & Physiology (must include labs):
- Minimum 6 credits in Chemistry (must include labs):
- 6 credits in Psychology:
- 3 credits in Statistics:
- MATH 1111 or equivalent
- 3 credits in Electives
Where the academic standing of applicants who have completed 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year courses in the required subject(s) is higher than that of the 1st year courses, the higher grade will be considered.
Each year the top 40 applicants with the highest grade point average will be selected to participate in an online candidate's questionnaire which assesses their knowledge of the dental hygiene profession. Those selected will be contacted by the Dental Hygiene department at the beginning of March with information and next steps.
If your educational documents are not from a Canadian or American institution, you must submit an evaluation of foreign credentials. A comprehensive evaluation report, from the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) located at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) including an ICES VCC Dental Hygiene Supplemental Report is required.
Upon Acceptance:
- A current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Health Care Provider (CPR HCP) or Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Annual renewal is required while in the program and for registration as a dental hygienist in British Columbia.
- Criminal Records Check (CRC): Students in this program are required to complete a CRC. The CRC must be completed according to VCC's Criminal Record Check instructions. Students whose CRC results indicate they pose a risk to vulnerable populations will not be able to complete the requirements of the program (e.g. practicums) or graduate.
- Submission of a recent negative tuberculosis (TB) test. If the test is positive, submission of a negative TB chest x-ray report is required.
- VCC School of Health Sciences Immunization record must be completed. Immunizations in the following are strongly recommended and may be required for practice placement in the program:
- Diphtheria
- Tetanus
- Pertussis
- Poliomyelitis
- Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
- Varicella (Chicken Pox)
- Hepatitis B
- Meningococcal
- Influenza Vaccination (annually)
- COVID-19 Vaccination
- N95 mask fit testing will be required prior to clinical rotations to health authority locations during the final year of the program. Mask fit testing is valid for 1 year and should only be completed when directed during the dental hygiene program. Information, fee payment, and scheduling related to mask fit testing will be provided during the program.
General
- This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. See program options for international students at VCC International.
- Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encouraged to connect with VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC’s Indigenous Enrolment policy, application preparation/completion, program advising, and a range of other individualized services.
- Applicants must be 16 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
- Applicants must submit official transcripts and other documents as required by their course or program. Seats are offered to eligible applicants with completed applications, in order of application completion date (except for programs with competitive admissions). A complete application includes an application form, evidence of educational pre-requisites (e.g. transcripts), any required supporting documents (e.g. language proficiency, audition video), and the required deposit or fee payment. If you do not meet the requirements for the term applied, your application may be cancelled.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended Characteristics
- Caring, considerate and empathetic
- Good interpersonal communication abilities
- Digital literacy
- Ability to work well and collaboratively
- Interest in health promotion and community service
- Ability to complete tasks that require manual dexterity and fine motor skills
- Willingness to receive and apply feedback
Cautions: Students must be physically and psychologically able to attend to the rigors of the program and perform the fine psychomotor skills needed to practice as a dental hygienist. The physical demands of the profession may worsen back, wrist or shoulder problems. Materials used in oral health care may affect persons living with conditions such as latex sensitivity or other allergies. Students are advised that Fitness to Practice guidelines are established by the BC College of Oral Health Professionals to ensure that dental hygiene practice is carried out in a competent, safe, and ethical manner.
Note: Students are expected to have regular access to email and internet services and the capability to print necessary documents. In addition, some vehicular travel is required between the VCC Downtown campus and community agencies for rotation requirements.
Students will be required to submit proof to the department of a recent dental examination from a licensed British Columbia dentist. It is preferred that your dental and dental hygiene healthcare be complete and current.
Courses *
Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the exception of community outreach experiences. Students will be advised of their community outreach hours once registered and attending the program.
Prior learning assessment and recognition
Students may request formal recognition of prior learning attained through informal education, work, or other life experience, including Indigenous ways of knowing. Credits may be granted to students who are able to sufficiently demonstrate the learning outcomes of specific courses.
PLAR is available for the following course:
DHYG 2144 Oral Health Sciences 1 - see Course Outline for details.
Tuition and fees may still apply to PLAR candidates.
See Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition policy for more information.
| Term One | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| DHYG 2114 | Dental Hygiene Care 1 | 7.5 |
| DHYG 2124 | Clinical Foundations | 6.5 |
| DHYG 2134 | Professional Practice 1 | 6 |
| DHYG 2144 | Oral Health Sciences 1 | 7 |
| Credits | 27 | |
| Term Two | ||
| DHYG 2214 | Dental Hygiene Care 2 | 8.5 |
| DHYG 2224 | Clinical Practice 1 | 8.5 |
| DHYG 3244 | Oral Health Sciences 2 | 8.5 |
| DHYG 3254 | Health Sciences | 9.5 |
| Credits | 35 | |
| Term Three | ||
| DHYG 3314 | Dental Hygiene Care 3 | 8 |
| DHYG 3324 | Clinical Practice 2 | 6.5 |
| DHYG 4344 | Oral Health Sciences 3 | 6.5 |
| DHYG 3364 | Community Foundations | 7 |
| Credits | 28 | |
| Term Four | ||
| DHYG 4414 | Dental Hygiene Care 4 | 8 |
| DHYG 3424 | Clinical Practice 3 | 9 |
| DHYG 3434 | Professional Practice 2 | 8.5 |
| DHYG 4464 | Community Practice | 8.5 |
| Credits | 34 | |
| Total Credits | 124 | |
* This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Discover Open Studies
Open Studies lets you take courses from credit programs without having to be accepted into one. Based on availability, you can sample different courses, earn credits, and build new skills.
Explore your optionsFees and other costs *
| Fee description | Fee Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | 36 | |
| Tuition Tuition | 20060 | |
| Student union | 256 | |
| College initiative | 228 | |
| Materials | 269 | not including textbooks |
| Campus resource | 402 | |
| Laundry | 694 | |
| Tools (deposit) | 30 | |
| Coverall (deposit) | 0 | |
| Uniform (deposit) | 30 | |
| Medical and Dental | 550 | |
| Temporary Medical Insurance | 0 | |
| U-PASS | 840 | |
| Graduation | 45 | |
| Program-specific extra fees | 0 | |
| Total |
Additional costs:
- Textbooks – approx. $2,000
- Student kits – approx. $10,000 + tax
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a $300 non-refundable deposit.
Fees listed are for domestic students. For international programs, visit VCC International.
Any refunds are issued according to VCC's refund policy.
Apply now
The Dental Hygiene program is an annual selection based program based on a combination of GPA and the CASPer assessment. You must have a minimum overall GPA of 3.00 in your 30 credits of first-year university courses to be considered.
If you are applying for a September intake, any in progress pre-requisite courses must be completed no later than the fall term of the previous year (September to December of the year before your intake).
Indigenous applicants: You are encouraged to reach out to Indigenous Services (indigenous@vcc.ca) for assistance with your application.
Acceptable university level courses: If you completed your university level courses in BC, you are strongly encouraged to check the transferability of your courses to VCC in the BC Transfer Guide. Only transferable courses meet the educational requirements (for example, BCIT BHSC 1200 is not accepted for BIOL 1120/1220 credits). In the BC Transfer Guide, remember to enter the institution you completed your course at in the 'from' field and VCC in the 'to' field.
- Note: If your courses were completed outside of BC, or if you have questions about the transferability of your courses, please call 604.871.7000, option 2 to make an appointment with an Advisor.
CASPer: The CASPer assessment is valid for one admission cycle only. CASPer results are not provided to applicants by CASPer or VCC. Please see the CASPer website for more information.
Important dates:
- October 1: Applications open
- December 31: All pre-requisite academic courses must be complete
- February 1 at 4 pm: Applications close
- Academic requirements must be met and submitted
- Transcripts can be sent to selectiontranscripts@vcc.ca (only official transcripts sent directly by institutions will be accepted). If you are completing university transfer courses at VCC, you do not need to request to have your VCC transcripts sent to the Registrar’s Office.
- CASPer dates and deadline: TBD
Get started
Attend an Information Session
Meet instructors, ask questions, and tour our facilities.