Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences

The Oral and Dental Health Program at Al-Baha University prepares students with the essential knowledge and practical skills to excel in the dynamic field of oral health. With a curriculum aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF-KSA), the program includes 143 credit hours delivered over a structured progression of theoretical and clinical training. It aims to meet the Saudi Vision 2030 objectives, focusing on enhancing healthcare services and contributing to community well-being.

To become a leading program in dental hygiene, recognized for excellence in education, clinical innovation, and community health commitment.

To prepare competent, ethical dental hygiene professionals equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to promote oral health, prevent oral disease, and contribute effectively to healthcare teams within the Saudi healthcare system.

Educational Excellence: Provide students with comprehensive theoretical and practical knowledge in dental hygiene.

• Skill Development: Develop proficient clinical and research skills while encouraging innovation in oral healthcare.
• Ethical Practice and Professionalism: Foster a commitment to ethics, autonomy, and professionalism in dental hygiene.

Community Contribution: Cultivate a service-oriented mindset and encourage collaboration to improve community health and well-being

The program’s mission and goals are aligned to produce graduates capable of addressing oral health challenges with professionalism and competence. The focus on education, ethics, and community contribution ensures a holistic approach to oral healthcare, reflecting the program’s commitment to advancing both individual and public health outcomes

Professional Ethics: Commitment to the highest ethical standards.

• Excellence: Pursuit of exceptional academic and clinical achievements.
• Innovation: Encouragement of creativity and continuous development.

Collaboration: Promotion of teamwork and multidisciplinary engagement

Graduates of the Oral and Dental Health program will:

• Demonstrate safe and proficient dental hygiene techniques.
• Apply critical thinking and problem-solving in clinical care.
• Adhere to ethical and professional standards in all practices.
• Utilize advanced technologies in delivering healthcare.

Collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary healthcare teams.

As outlined in the program specifications and aligned with NQF Level 6, the PLOs include:

Knowledge and Understanding

• K1: Understand foundational theories and principles in dental hygiene.
• K2: Recognize legal and regulatory frameworks in dental hygiene.
• K3: Identify diagnostic and assessment methods in oral health.
• K4: Explain evidence-based practices for addressing oral health issues.

Skills

• S1: Demonstrate safe and proficient dental hygiene techniques.
• S2: Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills in clinical care.
• S3: Conduct research and analyse findings to improve dental practices.
• S4: Utilize technology effectively for patient care and safety.
• S5: Exhibit effective communication and teamwork with healthcare professionals.

Values, Autonomy, and Responsibility

• V1: Uphold ethical and safety standards in dental hygiene.
• V2: Show responsibility and accountability in professional settings.

V3: Exhibit leadership, autonomy, and collaboration to improve dental care

Graduates of the program are qualified for diverse roles, including:

• Dental Hygienist
• Oral Health Educator
• Infection Control Specialist in Dental Clinics
• Research Assistant in Oral and Dental Health
• Community Dental Health Worker
• Dental Equipment and Materials Consultant

Government healthcare facilities (e.g., Ministry of Health hospitals and clinics).

• Private dental clinics and hospitals.
• Educational institutions.

Research centres and community health programs

Student Handbook: Covers the program structure, course descriptions, and academic policies.

• Clinical Training Manual: Details expectations and guidelines for clinical rotations.

Quality Assurance Manual: Outlines the mechanisms for maintaining academic and administrative quality in alignment with NQF-KSA standards

Internship and Alumni Committee

Purpose:

To ensure meaningful practical training experiences for students and maintain strong relationships with alumni to enhance program relevance and opportunities.

Responsibilities:

• Develop policies and guidelines for internship placements and supervision.
• Collaborate with healthcare providers to expand internship opportunities.
• Organize workshops and orientation sessions to prepare students for internships.
• Maintain an alumni database to track career progression and foster engagement.
• Organize alumni networking events and professional development seminars.

Laboratory Committee

Purpose:

To oversee laboratory resources and ensure a safe, effective practical training environment for students.

Responsibilities:

• Ensure laboratories are equipped with modern tools and materials meeting industry standards.
• Develop and enforce safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
• Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Coordinate with faculty to schedule laboratory sessions in alignment with course requirements.
• Manage inventory and ensure the availability of consumables.
• Provide training on the proper use of laboratory equipment and safety procedures.

Academic Advising and Supervision Committee

Purpose:

To support students in achieving their academic and career goals through effective guidance and mentoring.

Responsibilities:

• Assign academic advisors to students and ensure regular progress reviews.
• Conduct orientation sessions to familiarize students with program requirements and expectations.
• Monitor student performance and identify those at risk of academic failure.
• Develop intervention strategies to support struggling students.
• Provide career counselling and guidance on course selection and academic planning.
• Facilitate communication between students and faculty to resolve academic concerns.

Scheduling and Examinations Committee

Purpose:

To ensure the efficient scheduling of classes and assessments in alignment with program requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and manage class schedules with adequate resource allocation.
• Organize midterms, final exams, and practical assessments with clear timelines.
• Develop and enforce examination policies to maintain academic integrity.
• Address scheduling conflicts and accommodate special exam requests.
• Review and approve examination materials in collaboration with course instructors.
• Communicate schedules and policies clearly to students and faculty.

Scientific Research, Graduation Projects, and Continuous Training Committee

Purpose:

To promote research excellence and provide continuous professional development opportunities for faculty and students.

Responsibilities:

• Guide students in selecting and completing high-quality graduation projects.
• Support faculty and students in conducting innovative research in oral health.
• Organize research symposia, conferences, and faculty development workshops.
• Oversee ethical reviews of research involving human or animal subjects.
• Maintain records of departmental research activities and publications.
• Provide continuous training on emerging research methodologies.

Extracurricular Activities and Community Service Committee

Purpose:

To enhance student development through extracurricular and community engagement activities.

Responsibilities:

• Organize activities that foster teamwork, leadership, and personal growth.
• Develop and execute community service programs to promote oral health awareness.
• Collaborate with local organizations to provide outreach opportunities for students.
• Plan and evaluate health awareness campaigns and educational workshops.
• Gather feedback to improve community service initiatives.

Committee for Development, Quality, and Academic Accreditation

Purpose:

To ensure continuous quality improvement and compliance with accreditation standards.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct periodic self-assessments and internal audits of program activities.
• Develop and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for program performance.
• Align the program’s goals with NQF-KSA standards and Vision 2030 objectives.
• Analyse stakeholder feedback to guide program improvements.
• Ensure proper documentation for accreditation and compliance requirements.

Postgraduate Studies and Bachelor’s Program Plan Development Committee

Purpose:

To maintain an updated, relevant curriculum that prepares students to meet the demands of oral healthcare.

Responsibilities:

• Design and review course specifications to align with national and international standards.
• Incorporate emerging trends and technologies into the curriculum.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of teaching and learning methodologies.
• Integrate feedback from students, alumni, and industry partners into curriculum updates.

Program Advisory Board

Purpose:

To provide strategic oversight and ensure the program aligns with market demands and community needs.

Responsibilities:

• Advise on long-term strategic planning and curriculum updates.
• Identify emerging trends in oral healthcare and propose adjustments to the curriculum.
• Facilitate partnerships with healthcare organizations for internships and research.
• Recommend community outreach initiatives aligned with national health priorities.

Act as a liaison between the program and industry stakeholders to enhance graduate readiness