An articulation model to increase student enrollment in a dental hygiene program

Area of Science:

• Health professions education
• Higher education policy

Background:

• Existing models for increasing student enrollment often overlook secondary and postsecondary students.
• There is a need to recruit individuals with entry-level skills into baccalaureate degree programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a model for accessing secondary students with entry-level skills through partnership agreements.
• To establish advanced placement opportunities for dental aides.
• To create educational pathways for health professionals and criteria for statewide implementation.

Main Methods:

• Developing a partnership agreement model to access secondary students.
• Implementing a mechanism for advanced placement for dental aides.
• Outlining criteria for statewide development and funding for educational articulation.

Main Results:

• The proposed articulation model can increase student enrollment in associate and baccalaureate programs.
• It utilizes established statewide secondary vocational programs for recruitment.
• Provides a framework for advancing motivated health professionals.

Conclusions:

• The articulation model offers a viable strategy to increase student enrollment in higher education.
• It bridges secondary vocational programs with postsecondary degree programs.
• Facilitates career advancement for health professionals and addresses workforce needs.