This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2024-2025 VCU Bulletin. We may add courses that expose our students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning. We may also add content to the general education program that focuses on racial literacy and a racial literacy graduation requirement, and may receive notification of additional program approvals after the launch. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.

DHBS 301. Head and Neck Anatomy for Dental Hygienists. 3 Hours.

Semester course; 3 lecture hours. 3 credits. This four-week course provides an overview of head and neck anatomy, including the osteological, nervous, muscular, vascular and visceral structures of the human head and neck. Lecture-based instruction will be supplemented by collaborative/team-based learning exercises (with functional and clinical correlations of anatomical concepts), online self-study learning modules (with self-assessment questions) and brief laboratory exercises (for the study of osteological and/or gross anatomical specimens) that provide hands-on exposure to these major anatomical features.

DHBS 302. Microscopic Anatomy. 2 Hours.

Semester course; 2 lecture hours. 2 credits. A lecture course in the microscopic anatomy of the cells and tissues relevant to the oral cavity. This course is designed to provide a basic understanding of the microscopic anatomy of the human body, with emphasis placed on structures contained in the oral cavity. Normal microscopic anatomy forms the base for understanding the organization and function of the tooth and oral structures as well as the base on which pathological changes occur.

DHBS 341. Pharmacology and Pain Control for Dental Hygiene. 4 Hours.

Semester course; 4 lecture hours. 4 credits. A didactic course designed to emphasize the principles of pharmacology and pain control, drug actions and uses, and adverse effects to provide the rationale for the effective and safe use of drugs in dental hygiene.

DHBS 365. Infection and Immunity. 2 Hours.

Semester course; 2 lecture hours. 2 credits. Course provides a general introduction to immunology and microbiology. Students will gain an appreciation for basic components and mechanisms that are involved in immunity, as well as specific health problems associated with immune dysfunction. Additionally, students will become familiar with microbial pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses, the infectious diseases associated with these pathogens, and methods of control. Specific attention will be given to oral microbiology, immunity and pathologies.

DHBS 441. Pharmacology and Pain Control for Dental Hygiene. 4 Hours.

Semester course; 4 lecture hours. 4 credits. A didactic course designed to emphasize the principles of pharmacology and pain control, drug actions and uses, and adverse effects to provide the rationale for the effective and safe use of drugs in dental hygiene.