Follow-Up Study of 1994 Dental Hygiene Graduates.

In an effort to evaluate the effectiveness of its dental hygiene program, William Rainey Harper College (WRHC), in Illinois, conducted a follow-up study of program graduates from 1994. Surveys were mailed to all 30 1994 dental hygiene associate degree graduates, receiving responses from 77% (n=23). Study findings included the following: (1) all but one of the respondents was employed, while the unemployed graduate was looking for a job; (2) among the employed, 59% held full-time jobs, 9% held two part-time jobs (equivalent to full-time), 18% were employed part-time by choice, and 13% were employed part-time involuntarily; (3) the average annual full-time salary was approximately $44,400, 2.1% higher than the salaries of previous years and the highest salary paid to any WRHC graduate group; (4) only 52% of the respondents indicated that they were satisfied with their chosen profession, the lowest level since 1987; (5) the most frequently awarded benefits were reduced fees for dental work (91%), uniform allowance (76%), paid holidays (71%), and paid vacations (71%); and (6) of 41 specific job tasks, the graduates reported that they were very well prepared for 22 tasks, more than adequately prepared for 12 tasks, adequately prepared for 5 tasks, and less than adequately prepared for only 2 tasks. Data tables and comments from graduates from 1991 to 1994 are included. The survey instrument and cover letter are appended. (BCY)