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Pictured from left to right: Lindsey Zienowicz (left) and Redwane Ait Hammou (right)
are two Dental Hygiene graduates who completed the program in 2024.
兔子先生 () is proud to announce the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) has approved an increase in enrollment for its Dental Hygiene program, expanding the freshman class size from 20 to 30 students per year. The approval was granted following CODA鈥檚 Winter 2025 meeting, with official confirmation received by HGTC in late February.
The decision to increase enrollment was driven by the growing demand for dental care in the Myrtle Beach area, coupled with the expanding role of dental hygienists in various healthcare settings. In addition to traditional dental offices, dental hygienists are now serving in nursing homes, mobile dental units, and school-based clinics to address critical oral health needs.
HGTC鈥檚 request for expansion was submitted to CODA in correspondence dated November 1, 2024. After a thorough review, CODA adopted a resolution approving the permanent increase in enrollment while maintaining the program鈥檚 accreditation status of 鈥渁pproval without reporting requirements.鈥� This accreditation status reflects the program鈥檚 adherence to the highest standards of dental education.
鈥淭he approval to expand our Dental Hygiene program is a demonstration of the quality of education and training that HGTC provides,鈥� said Dr. Marilyn 鈥淢urph鈥� Fore. 鈥淲ith the growing need for skilled dental professionals, this expansion allows us to better serve the healthcare community and provide students with valuable career opportunities.鈥�
The HGTC Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting programs are fully accredited by CODA, a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that HGTC continues to uphold the highest educational standards in dental healthcare training.
Enrollment for the expanded Dental Hygiene program will take effect beginning in Fall 2025. The deadline to apply is May 15, 2025. Prospective students interested in applying are encouraged to visit for more information.
For more information about the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Dental Sciences, contact Professor Michelle Meeker at michelle.meeker@hgtc.edu or 843-839-1091.