Pre-Health Science (AA), Pre-Dental Hygiene Concentration

School of Math, Science & Engineering (MSE)

The Pre-Health Sciences major is an Associate of Arts Degree program that prepares students for transfer to the University Of New Mexico (UNM) or other four-year degree programs in numerous health-related fields. It fulfills the general education core courses for 4-year degrees required by the state of New Mexico and the UNM core curriculum.

This program is designed to prepare students to transfer to a 4-year degree program in Dental Hygiene.

See Recommended Sequence of Courses

Educational Option Information

• This educational option can be completed: Part-time or full-time.
• This program can be started: Any term.
• Primary course location: Main Campus
• Additional requirements for this educational option:
  • Student must purchase lab safety equipment.
  • Individual courses associated with this program may require students to purchase additional materials.

Approximate Costs of this Educational Option

• Cost of Attendance
• Tuition
• Books
• Program and Course Fees

Financial Aid Considerations

• This is a financial aid eligible program.
  • Direct Subsidized Loans: 150 percent rule
  • Some courses are not eligible for Financial Aid. Please check the list here when considering a course.

Educational Opportunities

An associate degree is an important milestone for students pursuing either a baccalaureate degree or graduate degree.  Core requirements for the baccalaureate are met through completion of the CNM Associate of Science degree.

This particular concentration prepares students for transfer into a 4-year Dental Hygiene degree program. Specific requirements for transfer will vary from school to school. It is the student’s responsibility to contact the four-year transfer school to confirm specific admission and degree requirements. There may be program-specific requirements that must be met, and many programs require a competitive admissions process.

Many of the courses in this program are transferable and some may be applied to four-year degree programs at other institutions. CNM currently has transfer agreements with many colleges and universities in New Mexico and elsewhere.

Students from CNM seeking a baccalaureate degree should always refer to the catalog of their intended transfer institution for admission, program, course, and graduation requirements. College catalogs are generally available online. Students should also consult an Academic Coach in Connect Services.

NOTE:  Students planning to transfer to UNM for this program are required to attend a Dental Hygiene Advisement Session prior to applying to the program; see the UNM Dental Hygiene website for dates/times. After attending the session, students are also recommended to meet with a UNM advisor. Students who have high grades in science courses are most competitive for admission.

Career Opportunities

The employment outlook in Dental Hygiene and in health related fields is strong and growing. Prospects are significantly improved by successful completion of a bachelor’s degree and/or higher certifications in the field. This program is designed to prepare students to transfer to a 4-year degree program in Dental Hygiene.