Top row: Kristy Wieder; Row 2: Jodi Dowedite; Row 3 (L-R): Katie Torres, Janet Jozwiak; Row 4 (L-R): Cheryl Van Beck, Jodie Condon, Holly Carr; Row 5 (L-R): Aimee Woodward, Melissa Meroz, Brianne Neelis

Ann Arbor, MI - August 19, 2008 - The University of Michigan Dental Hygiene Program welcomed 10 new students to the Dental Hygiene Degree Completion E-Learning Program. E-Learning students attended an on-campus orientation on August 13-14, 2008. This is the only time they are required to be on campus during their two year, part-time program. Students, all registered dental hygienists with an associate's degree, hail from Michigan, Idaho, North Carolina, and Illinois. They will obtain a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at the completion of their program.

Students find flexibility an attractive feature when selecting an E-Learning educational program. It is an ideal option for dental hygienists who want to continue working while pursuing their degree. Courses are scheduled in a sequence to allow for completion of this 33 credit hour program in a 24 month period.

Participation may occur anytime of the day or night, with several recommended "log ins" per week. The seven week "mini-mester" covers the same material as a 15 week semester with additional time needed to complete readings, assignments/projects, and online discussions. The second year includes a community field experience and practicum that is scheduled at locations convenient for the student.

To learn more about this exciting program visit www.dent.umich.edu/depts/pom/hygiene/dconline.com.

The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is one of the nation's leading dental schools engaged in oral health care education, research, patient care, and community service. General dental care clinics and specialty clinics providing advanced treatment enable the School to offer dental services and programs to patients throughout Michigan. Classroom and clinic instruction prepare future dentists, dental specialists, and dental hygienists for practice in private offices, hospitals, academia, and public agencies. Research seeks to discover and apply new knowledge that can help patients worldwide. For more information about the School of Dentistry, visit us on the Web at: www.dent.umich.edu.

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