A Joint Admissions Program with the University of Medicine and Dentistry of NJ

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree

Why major in Respiratory Care?

Respiratory therapists are health care specialists who participate in the diagnosis, treatment, management, education, and preventative care of patients with disorders of the cardiopulmonary system. They work in hospitals, caring for patients on medical and surgical wards, in emergency rooms, in neonatal, adult, and cardiac intensive care units, and in outpatient departments. They also provide care in patients’ homes, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, and other health care facilities. Experienced therapists with advanced education qualify for teaching positions or managerial jobs in areas such as equipment sales and marketing. The program is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC).

If I major in Respiratory Care, can I transfer to an upper-division college or university?

The major is job-oriented and not designed for transfer to a baccalaureate program. However, colleges and universities, including the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), New Jersey City University, and Thomas Edison State College, will apply most or all of the courses you have taken toward a bachelor’s degree.

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?

Admission into the program is selective. The application deadline for admission into the professional component of the program at UMDNJ is February 1 for courses beginning the following June. Each student must meet with a program advisor prior to submission of an application. Students are chosen by a joint admissions committee of both institutions. The following are the minimum requirements for admission:

• Be at college level in reading, English, and mathematics, which may require the completion of developmental courses based on placement test scores.
• Complete a 35-credit pre-professional component of general education courses and basic science courses with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher.
• Attain a grade of “C” or above in all courses designated BIO, CHM, or MTH.
• Have a current CPR card (BLS-C for health care providers).
• Satisfactorily complete the HOBET (Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test) entrance exam scheduled annually in February.

How long will it take for me to complete this degree?

If you do not need developmental course work and have completed the prerequisite course work, you can complete the professional phase of the Respiratory Care degree program within two academic semesters and one summer session as a full-time student (taking an average of 12 credits each semester/session). Should a part-time schedule be requested and approved, the student will have a maximum of four academic semesters and two summer terms to complete the course work. Part-time enrollment in the program is granted on a case-by-case basis.

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-1865/3246.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Take the entry and registry examinations offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care and obtain the New Jersey State Board of Respiratory Care license;
• Obtain and analyze physiological specimens;
• Interpret physiological data;
• Perform tests and studies of the cardiopulmonary system;
• Identify medical gases and environmental control systems;
• Perform mechanical ventilator support;
• Perform oxygen therapy, humidification, and aerosol therapy;
• Administer artificial airway care;
• Perform bronchopulmonary hygiene;
• Utilize pharmacological agents related to respiratory care procedures;
• Assist in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and hemodynamic cardiovascular support;
• Perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation;
• Educate patients and family members on the disease process, medical therapy, and self help; and
• Promote cardiopulmonary wellness and disease prevention measures.

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above, regardless of specific choices made by the individual student.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree

(Also see General Science A.S. Degree Program)

Why major in Radiography?

Radiography involves assisting in the diagnosis and management of human illness by producing diagnostic images (also called radiographs or x-rays) of the structures in the body. Students receive hands-on training in radiographic procedures and imaging modalities and in operating room and fluoroscopic procedures. Graduates of the program become eligible to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Board examination for National Registration in addition to the New Jersey State licensure. Upon licensure, graduates will qualify to work with physicians in offices, clinics, and hospitals. As a radiographer, you can specialize in mammography, computed tomography (CT), digital vascular imaging (angiography), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Related jobs can be found in manufacturing firms and medical supply companies. The program is accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT), 20 N Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL, 60606 and by the State of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners.

If I major in Radiography, can I transfer to an upper-division college or university?

The major is job-oriented and not designed for transfer to a baccalaureate program. However, colleges and universities, including Thomas Edison State College and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, may apply most or all of the courses you have taken towards a bachelor’s degree.

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?

All students – even transfer students – must apply to the College as a General Science (curriculum code: 0603) student first before applying for admission to the Radiography Program. Admission into the professional component of the program is very competitive. Completion of prerequisites and the submission of an application do not automatically guarantee admission. Transcripts from other institutions must be evaluated by ECC Enrollment Services prior to review of the Radiography program application. The application deadline is March 15 for enrollment in the following fall semester. The following are the minimum standards for admission:

• Be at college level in reading, English, and mathematics, which may require the completion of developmental courses (e.g., RDG 096, ENG 096, and/or MTH 092) based on placement test scores.
• Complete the following program prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or better in each: BIO 121, ENG 101, MTH 100 or any other college-level math, and HSC 109.
• Have a college GPA of 2.5 or higher.
• Perform satisfactorily – score at least 50 – on the HOBET (Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test), which is scheduled annually in the spring. (All applicants will be notified by mail about the scheduled exam date and process for registration.)

How long will it take me to complete this degree?

If you do not need developmental course work and have completed the prerequisite courses for admission, you will complete the professional phase of the program in 24 months by following the recommended sequence of courses specified in the program schedule and by earning a grade of “C” or better in all RTC courses.

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-3293.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate skill and competence of an entry-level radiographer;
• Demonstrate effective and appropriate communication with diverse ethno-cultural patients and other health care professionals;
• Demonstrate appropriate problem solving and critical thinking skills in the health care setting; and
• Demonstrate appropriate behavior in providing quality patient care.

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above, regardless of specific choices made by the individual student.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree

(Also see General Science A.S. Degree Program)

Why major in the Physical Therapist Assistant program?

Physical therapist assistants have the rewarding opportunity to make a positive difference in the quality of people’s lives. Their work involves extensive contact with both patients and other health care professionals. Physical therapist assistants work under the supervision of a physical therapist in implementing treatment programs specific to the plan of care. Physical therapist asssistants work in hospitals, private physical therapy offices, community health centers, corporate or industrial health centers, sport facilities, research institutions, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, home health agencies, schools, pediatric centers, colleges and universities. The Physical Therapist Assistant Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE); rules and regulations regarding accreditation can be found at their website:  http://www.capteonline.org/AccreditationHandbook.

If I major in the Physical Therapist Assistant program, can I transfer to an upper-division college or university?

The physical therapist assistant curriculum differs from that of the physical therapist curriculum. Under most circumstance, this degree is not transferable. However, our program has an articulation agreement with Mercy College (Dobbs Ferry, NY) that will enable qualified graduates to transfer directly into Mercy’s Physical Therapy program. There are also other accredited programs designed to allow experienced physical therapist assistants to continue working while attending a physical therapist doctoral degree program on the weekends.

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?

All students – even transfer students – must apply to the College as a General Science (curriculum code: 0603) student first before applying for admission to the Physical Therapist Assistant Program. Admission into the professional component of the program is very competitive. Completion of prerequisites and the submission of an application do not automatically guarantee admission. Transcripts from other institutions must be evaluated by ECC Enrollment Services prior to review of the PTA program application. The application deadline is March 15 for enrollment in the following fall semester. The following are the minimum standards for admission:

• Be at college level in reading, English, and mathematics, which may require the completion of developmental courses (e.g., RDG 096, ENG 096, and/or MTH 092) based on placement test scores.
• Complete the following program prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or better in each: BIO 121 Anatomy and Physiology I, ENG 101 English Composition I, and PSY 101 General Psychology I. Also, only 2 of the prerequisite courses may be repeated to achieve this grade and each course may only be repeated once.
• Have a college GPA of 2.5 or higher.
• Perform satisfactorily – score at least 50 – on the HOBET (Health Occupations Basic Entrance Test), which is scheduled annually in the spring. (All applicants will be notified by mail about the scheduled exam date and process for registration.)
• Complete 50 volunteer hours in a physical therapy department or facility and submit proof of hours via letterhead documentation to the PTA program no later than May 1st of the application year.

Note: Students are responsible for the accuracy of information they provide on their program admissions application.

How long will it take me to complete this degree?

If you do not need developmental course work and have completed the prerequisite courses for admission, you can complete the professional phase of the program in two years if you register for an average of 15 credits each semester.

What are the Student Success Rates (Student Learning Outcomes)?

The students within the PTA programs have a high rate of success. Their success is outlined in the table below:

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-3456.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate the hands-on skills and cognitive knowledge (including implementing a comprehensive treatment plan, performing appropriate measurement and assessment techniques, modifying an intervention, etc.) required of a Physical Therapist Assistant;
• Demonstrate effective written, oral, and nonverbal communication (including completing written treatment documentation, providing patient progress updates to the supervising physical therapist, conveying discharge/follow-up care instructions, teaching specific techniques, etc.) and appropriate interaction with diverse ethno-cultural patients and their families, colleagues, health care providers, and the public;
• Demonstrate safe, ethical, legal, and professional behavior while working under the supervision of a physical therapist; and
• Demonstrate readiness for professional development by reading and interpreting professional literature, identifying levels of authority and responsibility in the physical therapy profession, and being aware of policies and procedures among other things.

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above, regardless of specific choices made by the individual student.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree

(Also see General Science A.S. Degree Program)

Why major in Nursing?

There is a growing demand for nurses nationwide. Nursing is a service-oriented profession that involves caring for and working with people. A state-of-the-art, well-equipped nursing simulation laboratory is available on campus to facilitate student learning. In addition, a multi-media computer laboratory is available for student use. The nursing program prepares the student for entry-level positions in hospitals and other health care facilities. Upon completion of the program, the student is eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to qualify for licensure.

If I major in Nursing, can I transfer to an upper-division college or university?

Many colleges have “upper-division” nursing programs that allow associate degree graduates to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.). Articulation agreements exist between Essex County College and New York University, New Jersey City University, St. Peter’s College, Felician College, Kean University, Rutgers University, William Paterson University, and Seton Hall University.

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?

Apply to the College as a General Science (curriculum code: 0603) student with a major in nursing. The following are the minimum standards for admission:

• Be at college level in reading, English, and mathematics, which may require the completion of developmental courses (e.g., RDG 096, ENG 096, and/or MTH 092) based on placement test scores.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Have a college GPA of 2.5 or higher.
• Complete the following program prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or better in each: CHM 101 (or CHM 103), BIO 121, and ENG 101. Note that BIO 121 and BIO 122 must both be completed within 5 years of admission.
• Have a combined GPA of 3.0 or higher in CHM 101 or CHM 103, ENG 101, and BIO 121.

For other admissions requirements, contact the Nursing & Allied Health Division. All prerequisite courses must be completed by December 31 for Fall admission and by June 30 for Spring admission in order to sit for the nursing program admission exam. Admission to the program is competitive. Qualified applicants are admitted on a space-available basis. Admission to the nursing program is based on a statistically weighted system, which considers your overall GPA; GPA in BIO 121, CHM 101, and ENG 101; RN PAX Reading score; RN PAX Math score; and RN PAX Science score.

How long will it take me to complete this degree?

The Nursing program is a full-time, day and evening program that can be completed in a two-year period (after the program prerequisite courses are completed) if you register for an average of 14 credits each semester.

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-1868/1865.

Upon completion of the ECC nursing program, graduates will be able to:

• Synthesize data collected utilizing the frameworks of needs assessment and developmental challenges of the client and family, appraising the clients health status and establishing a foundation for individualized care.  (Assessment Maslow Erikson) (Human Florishing);
• Apply the nursing process in providing holistic care to clients and families across the lifespan during wellness, worried wellness and illness for clients in healthcare agencies and in the community. (Nursing Process);
• Adhere to standards of the nursing profession; practice nursing within legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks. (Professional Behaviors) (Professional Identity) (Integrity);
• Utilize therapeutic communication skills to establish human relationships and collaborate with the client and the multidisciplinary health care team to meet the needs of clients (Collaboration) and promote positive outcomes. (Communication) (Quality);
• Exhibit clinical decision making using evidence based practice and critical thinking in assisting clients and families to promote optimal health. (Clinical Decision Making)(Spirit of Inquiry) (Nursing Judgment);
• Demonstrate caring behaviors while engaging in the art and science of nursing. (Caring Interventions);
• Utilize teaching-learning principles to design, implement, and evaluate the outcomes of teaching plans with clients and families. (Teaching and Learning);
• Manage care with fiscal efficiency using available resources in meeting client and organizational needs. (Managing Care);
• Participate in lifelong professional development. (Professional Behaviors) (Professional Identity); and
• Utilize evidence based practice to ensure safe and effective practice for the client, family and the professional nurse. (Evidence Based Practice) (Safety Standards).

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above, regardless of specific choices made by the individual student.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree

(Also see General Science A.S. Degree Program)

Why major in Nursing: LPN Articulation Option?

The LPN Articulation Option of the Nursing program provides an opportunity for Licensed Practical Nurses to gain credit for previous LPN education and licensure toward completion of the Nursing A.A.S. degree program. The nursing program prepares the student for entry-level positions in hospitals and other health care facilities. Upon completion of the program, the student is eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam to qualify for licensure.

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?

The student must possess a current LPN/LVN license and a high school diploma or GED and have the official transcript of the state-approved or NLN-accredited Practical Nursing Program sent to the ECC Nursing Department. Applicants should enter the College as General Science (curriculum code: 0603) students with a major in nursing. The following are the minimum standards for admission:

• Be at college level in reading, English, and mathematics, which may require the completion of developmental courses (e.g., RDG 096, ENG 096, and/or MTH 092) based on placement test scores.
• Have a GPA of 2.5 or higher.
• Complete the following program prerequisite courses with a grade of “C” or better in each: CHM 101 (or CHM 103), BIO 121, BIO 122, ENG 101, ENG 102, and PSY 101. Note that BIO 121 and BIO 122 must both be completed within 5 years of admission and any science course can be repeated, if necessary, only once.
• Achieve a satisfactory score on the Nursing admission exam.
• Possess a current LPN/LVN license.

How does this option benefit the LPN?

The LPN can test out of NRS 107 Nursing I and segments of NRS 108 Nursing II. Upon successful completion of two courses, NRS 106 LPN Mobility I and NRS 111 LPN Mobility II, students enter Nursing III and can complete the Nursing Program by successfully completing NRS 233 Nursing III, NRS 234 Nursing IV, and NRS 235 Nursing Seminar (Nursing V) in the generic track. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are awarded the Associate in Applied Science Degree with a major in Nursing and are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Upon successful completion of NRS 106 and NRS 111, the LPN is awarded 6 credits toward the Nursing degree for their LPN education (NRS 999).

How long will it take me to complete this degree?

The Nursing: LPN Articulation Option can be completed in three semesters (after the program prerequisite courses are completed) if you register for an average of 15 credits each semester.

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-1868/1865.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Assess clients utilizing Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Erikson’s developmental theory as a framework to contribute to the database;
• Use critical thinking when applying the nursing process;
• Formulate nursing diagnoses when potential and/or actual unmet needs cause health alterations;
• Develop a plan of care for clients in collaboration with other members of the health care team that incorporates clinical decision making, short- and long-term client-centered goals, and appropriate nursing interventions that are based on scientific rationale;
• Implement caring interventions, complex nursing skills, and current technology in a safe and competent manner;
• Evaluate the effectiveness of nursing care based upon established outcome criteria and revised the care plan as needed;
• Implement nursing care responsive to clients’ cultural diversity and advocacy needs;
• Employ appropriate communication skills with clients, peers, and members of the health care team in the health care setting;
• Implement teaching plans to promote health in clients and their families;
• Practice nursing within the legal and ethical framework of the nursing profession;
• Demonstrate a commitment to one’s own professional and personal growth; and
• Manage nursing care for groups of clients within the score of ADN nursing practice.

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above, regardless of specific choices made by the individual student.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Academic Certificate

Why major in Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)?

There is a growing demand for LPNs to provide care to individuals in a variety of health care settings. The LPN works in close collaboration with the RN and other members of the health care team in long-term care facilities, assisted living sites, and hospitals. A state-of-the-art, well-equipped nursing simulation laboratory is available on campus to facilitate student learning. In addition, a multi-media computer laboratory is available to the students. Upon completion of the program, the student receives an academic certificate and is eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam to qualify for LPN licensure.

Is there educational mobility after completing the LPN program?

The Essex County College Department of Nursing subscribes to the state articulation model for education mobility of nurses. LPN students can enter the RN program upon meeting the admission requirements of the Nursing: LPN Articulation Option A.A.S. Degree Program.

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in the LPN program?

Apply to the College as an LPN student (curriculum code: 3312). The following are the minimum requirements for admission:

• Be at college level in reading, English, and mathematics, which may require the completion of developmental courses (e.g., RDG 096, ENG 096, and/or MTH 092) based on placement test scores.
• Have a high school diploma or GED.
• Achieve a satisfactory score on the LPN program admission exam.

How long will it take for me to complete this program?

If you do not need developmental course work and you register for an average of 12 credits each semester, you can complete the program in two years.

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-1868/1865.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate the cognitive knowledge (including basic nursing care theory and practice, patient assessment techniques, comprehensive treatment plan/intervention elements, etc.) required of an entry-level LPN practitioner;
• Demonstrate the psychomotor skills (including various methods of medication administration, hands-on physical assessments, assisting with teaching/instruction in the care of older adults, etc.) required of an entry-level LPN practitioner; and
• Describe and demonstrate communication skills and ethical and professional behaviors (including progress reports to members of the health care team, written documentation of client care, etc.) expected of an entry-level LPN practitioner.

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree

Why major in Health Science?

The Health Science program provides an opportunity for health care personnel and allied health program majors to complete a general health science associate degree. Students receive up to 24 credits for previous post-secondary professional educational or certificate training in an allied health profession. Certificates or licenses must be current at the time of credit evaluation. Bachelor’s degree completion can lead to employment in health education or entry-level health care administration positions.

If I major in Health Science, can I transfer to an upper-division college or university?

The Associate of Science degree in Health Science may be transferred to the Bachelor of Science Health Science degree program offered jointly by UMDNJ, New Jersey City University, and Berkeley College. Also, Thomas Edison State College will apply most or all the courses you have taken toward a Bachelor of Science degree program in Health Science or a Bachelor of Science degree program in Applied Science and Technology.

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?

Complete an application to Essex County College and indicate Health Science (curriculum code 2114) as your desired major and take the placement test. Based on your placement test scores, you may have to take developmental courses in reading, English, and/or mathematics before taking the core curriculum courses in your major. Submit a copy of your diploma and official transcript from where you received your professional training and current certificate or licensure for evaluation prior to admission to the Health Science major.

Who should apply to the Health Science program?

Any health care professional who holds licensure or certification in their specialty and who received their training in any accredited or state-licensed post-secondary allied health training program. This program is particularly useful for health care professionals working in fields for which no specific degree is offered. In addition, any ECC student who completed college-level course work in nursing or any allied health discipline but who did not complete a specific degree may apply their professional credit toward the completion of this degree.

How long will it take for me to complete this degree?

If you do not need developmental course work and, depending on the number of credits granted for prior professional training, you can complete the degree in two years or less by taking an average of 15 credits each semester. You may shorten the time by taking courses in the summer sessions.

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-1865.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Advance to a baccalaureate program specializing in health education, health care informatics, or health care administration;
• Secure job promotions within health-related fields for which no specific degree exists; and
• Prepare for employment based on the individualized curriculum that has been completed in fields such as health services administration, health computing, or health education.

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above, regardless of specific choices made by the individual student.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.

A Joint Admissions Program with the University of Medicine and Dentistry of NJ

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree

(Also see General Science A.S. Degree Program)

Why major in Dental Hygiene?

The associate’s degree program, offered jointly by Essex County College and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, prepares an individual for a career as a registered dental hygienist. Dental hygienists perform services that detect, prevent, and treat diseases of the mouth under the supervision of a dentist. The program is accredited by the American Dental Association/Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Graduates are qualified to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and the North Eastern Regional Board examinations to secure a license to practice. Dental hygienists can obtain employment in private dental offices, community and school health education programs, hospital dental clinics, and private industrial employee clinics.

If I major in Dental Hygiene, can I transfer to an upper-division college or university?

Although the major is job-oriented, most courses will transfer in the Bachelor of Science in Health Science degree program with the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and Thomas Edison State College (TESC).

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?

Admission into the professional component of the program is selective. The application deadline is May 1 for enrollment in the following spring semester. Each student must meet with a program advisor prior to submission of an application. The following are the minimum requirements for admission:

• Be at college level in reading, English, and mathematics, which may require the completion of developmental courses based on placement test scores.
• Complete a 34-credit pre-professional component of general education courses and basic science courses with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.
• Attain a grade of “C” or above in each of the following prerequisite courses: BIO 121, BIO 122, BIO 211, CHM 101, ENG 101, and PSY 101 with a minimum GPA of 2.75 or higher for these courses.

How long will it take for me to complete this degree?

If you do not need developmental course work and have completed the pre-requisite courses for admission, you can complete the professional phase of the program in two academic semesters if you register for an average of 13 credits each semester. It is important to note that some courses may be web-based and, as such, may require students to have a computer and internet access.

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-1868/3246.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Perform the following duties: prophylaxis (clean teeth); administer fluoride; provide patient education and nutritional counseling; expose, process, and mount radiographs; examine head, neck, and oral areas for disease; fabricate mouth guards; polish amalgam resorations; work as a member of the dental health care team; and administer local anesthesia;
• Exhibit competency as clinicians through demonstrated performance on the North East Regional Board Dental Hygiene Examination and the National Board Examination and feedback from employers’ surveys;
• Assume responsibility for health promotion and disease prevention for individuals and communities through participation in multiple dental health education projects;
• Perform multiple, advanced-level dental auxiliary functions as defined in the New Jersey State Dental Practice Act program goals;
• Obtain the RDH license;
• Demonstrate professional development through membership in the Student American Dental Hygienists’ Association and through participation in related activities; andDisplay professionalism in the delivery of comprehensive dental health care.

• Prepare individuals for employment as dental hygienists;
• Determine student satisfaction with their educational program; and
• Assess patient satisfaction with treatment service provided by students through data collection via the patient satisfaction survey.

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.

A Joint Admissions Program with the University of Medicine and Dentistry of NJ

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Academic Certificate

(Also see General Science A.S. Degree Program)

Why major in Dietary Management?

Accredited by the Dietary Management Association (DMA), the Dietary Manager program will empower graduates to run medical nutrition and general food service establishments. Dietary Managers act as supervisors or managers over long-term care facilities, assisted living, small hospitals, schools, military, and other non-commercial settings and are an important part of the nutrition care team. Dietary Managers can hire dietary workers, purchase food, supervise preparation, distribution, and clean up of meals, snacks, and supplements. They are also responsible for food safety and for selecting foods that conform with diet prescriptions.

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.

A Joint Admissions Program with the University of Medicine and Dentistry of NJ

Will Earn Upon Program Completion: Academic Certificate

(Also see General Science A.S. Degree Program)

Why major in Dental Assisting?

Dental Assistants help dentists in caring for patients. This academic certificate program, offered jointly by Essex County College and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ), prepares students to take the licensing exam to qualify to work with dentists. Dental Assistants can earn a competitive salary, work in a professional environment, and enjoy the advantages of flexible work hours. The program is accredited by the American Dental Association/Council on Dental Education/Dental Assisting Section.

If I major in Dental Assisting, can I transfer to an upper-division college or university?

The major is job-oriented and not designed for transfer to a baccalaureate program. However, credits earned upon program completion can be applied to Essex County College’s associate’s degree program in Dental Hygiene. Also, other colleges and universities, including Thomas Edison State College and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, may apply most or all of the courses you have taken toward a baccalaureate program.

Are there any requirements I must satisfy before I start taking courses in my major?

Admission into the professional component of the program is selective. The application deadline is May 1 for enrollment in the following spring semester. Each student must meet with a program advisor prior to submission of an application. The following are the minimum requirements for admission:

• Be at college level in reading, English, and mathematics, which may require the completion of developmental courses based on placement test scores.
• Have a grade of “C” of better in each of the following prerequisite courses: BIO 121, ENG 101, and PSY 101 and have a minimum GPA of 2.0 or higher.

How long will it take for me to complete this program?

If you do not need developmental course work and have completed the prerequisite courses for admission, you can complete the professional phase of the program in two academic semesters if you register for an average of 12 credits each semester. It is important to note that some courses may be web-based and, as such, may require students to have a computer and internet access.

Where should I direct specific questions about this program?

Call the Division at (973) 877-1868/1865.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Take the Certified Dental Assistants (CDA) examination administered by the Dental Assisting National Board; and
• Perform the following duties: assist the dentist in all phases of treatment; sterilize instruments; prepare treatment rooms; provide patient education and nutritional counseling; arrange and confirm appointments; prepare dental insurance claims; expose, process, and mount radiographs; perform a variety of intra-oral expanded functions; fabricate mouth guards; work as members of a dental team; perform basic laboratory procedures; and select and transfer instruments to the dentist.

NOTES:
(1) The two General Education Integrated Course Goals, Ethical Reasoning & Action and Information Literacy, are both addressed by the required curriculum described above.
(2) This plan assumes the completion of all required developmental courses in reading, writing, and mathematics as well as other pre- and co-requisites for some of the courses, as listed in the Course Descriptions section.