Best Dental Hygiene Degrees

Overview

You can live in one of the top college towns in the nation in the city of Flagstaff, AZ. Northern Arizona Universitys program in Dental Hygiene is offered through its main Flagstaff campus but also operates other campuses throughout the state and online. Founded in 1899, the school survived several tumultuous periods of U.S. history such as the Great Depression and World War II. It wasnt until the 1950s when NAU reached university status. Currently, there are a total of 95 undergraduate degrees offered.

Program Features

NAU offers the only BS in Dental Hygiene within the state. This four-year degree requires a minimum of 120 credit hours. Throughout the program, students will gain an equal understanding of both theory and practice.

Notables

As part of the hands-on experience portion of the program, students can work in education and in clinics serving marginalized populations. There is a two-week externship that can be completed within the state or in other locations such as Hawaii, Peru, or Guatemala.

Overview

Many will recognize the University of New Mexicos campus, with its distinct architecture inspired by the historic Pueblo Native American culture. UNM was established in 1889 and is located in the heart of Albuquerque. It is proud to be a Hispanic-Serving Institution that welcomes students of all backgrounds. Although its Dental Hygiene degree is located on its main campus in Albuquerque, UNM also operates several other campuses throughout the state.

Program Features

UNMs School of Medicine offers the BS in Dental Hygiene program. This five-semester program offers a close-knit community of eager learners. In general, each class contains only about 24 students. Here are some main features of the degree:

Notables

The program starts every spring semester. The coursework consists of general topics, actual clinical practice, and even an option to complete a thesis in order to be admitted directly into the MS program.

Overview

The University of New Haven is proud to be a leading private university with dedicated faculty and hard-working students. New Haven was founded in 1920 on Yale Universitys campus. Over 7,000 students are currently enrolled across its 82-acre campus located in Connecticut. Several of its programs are interdisciplinary in nature and career-focused. For the past nine years, the U.S. News World Report has ranked New Haven favorably among its ranking of Best Colleges in the North.

Program Features

New Havens undergraduate Dental Hygiene program is very flexible, offering three different formats: a three-year associate program, a four-year bachelors program, or an online completion program. Each option targets slightly different populations which allow students to complete the degree that fits their schedule.

Notables

The three-year associate program is for those who are not quite ready to get a full bachelors degree. The online program is targeted to those who already have an associate degree.

Overview

Receive a career-oriented education by enrolling at the University of Bridgeport, a private institution located in Connecticut. Three colleges make up Bridgeport: the College of Engineering, Business, and Education; the College of Arts and Sciences; and the College of Health Sciences. It was founded in 1927 as a junior college to fill the void of having no institute of higher education in the nearby area. Bridgeport eventually gained university status after World War II. Its campus is located only an hour from New York City.

Program Features

Those who hold an associate degree in Dental Hygiene are encouraged to apply to Bridgeports BS program. This highly individualized program allows students to take certain courses that meet their career goals. Several people have even minored in other subjects while pursuing their degree.

Notables

Dental Hygiene students are still able to study abroad. Bridgepoint offers several travel programs where students can take courses that will directly go towards the degree on their home campus.

Overview

Gain the small-town college experience at a mid-sized institution with Ferris State University. Located in Big Rapids, MI, students enrolled on its main campus get to witness the beauty that the city has to offer. Ferris State operates 190 different degree programs, with an average student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1. Hands-on learning is emphasized here, with about 70% of its students participating in an internship during their program.

Program Features

Ferris State offers a fully-online BS in Dental Hygiene for those who possess an associate degree or those who are already licensed dental hygienists. Because it is a distance learning program, courses can be completed from virtually anywhere. Some courses may include:

Notables

The SR Education Group ranked this program favorably on its ranking of the Best Online Colleges in 2019 due to its affordability and quality training. Ferris State as a whole is ranked the No. 22 best public school in the nation according to the U.S. News World Report.

Overview

Take courses on a vibrant campus with over 16,000 other students at the University of Missouri Kansas City. UMKC is the largest and most comprehensive university within the Kansas City area. It offers more than 125 academic programs from the undergraduate level to the doctoral level. UMKC is proud to make the city a better place, particularly through its medical services. One of its services includes the School of Dentistry that was founded in the early 1880s. For the past 125 years, the school has served the local community through orthodontics, periodontics, and general dentistry practice.

Program Features

Enroll in the entry-level Dental Hygiene program and work alongside DDS students. As well as receiving actual hands-on training within the practice, students are also exposed to other similar careers such as research and teaching. UMKC offers the only public dental school in Missouri.

Notables

Students should enter into the program with all prerequisite courses already completed. The program should take about two years to complete, with classes occurring in the fall and spring, as well as in one summer session between semesters.

Overview

In the summer of 1848, Pacific University was established as a small building known as Old College Hall. In 1896, the school was gifted a bronze Chinese statue which later became its mascot. Today, Pacific is known as the Boxer, a mythical Chinese character that often resembles a dog. Pacific students embody the Boxer Spirit by encouraging everyone to develop meaningful relationships with their peers and community. Pacific is ranked as the No. 1 private research university in the Pacific Northwest, according to the National Science Foundations 2017 Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) Expenditures Survey.

Program Features

Advance your technical skills through Pacifics BS in Dental Hygiene degree. Throughout the two years, students will deal with diverse groups of patient populations. Students can shadow not just dentists, but other health professionals as well.

Notables

Spring and summer sessions are 15 weeks each and summer sessions are only eight weeks. Students will be required to take two summer sessions after their junior and senior years.

Overview

At Wichita State University, all students are exposed to applied learning. Whether it be through research, an internship, or just experience working in the community, students will be prepared for leadership roles beyond the campus. Wichita is located in the largest city in Kansas. Its 330-acre campus has rapidly expanded, with several new buildings and campus life initiatives. The university offers more than 450 internships with local employers.

Program Features

Whether you choose the entry-level BS in Dental Hygiene or the degree completion program, students will further their knowledge of oral hygiene and clinical practice. The curriculum focuses on the assessment of patients needs, and thus participants will be required to work alongside dental professionals. Some common courses are:

Notables

Students have access to the WSU Delta Dental of Kansas Foundation Dental Hygiene clinic. This facility is the states largest clinic of its kind, serving about 5,000 people annually.

Overview

Youngstown State University has humble roots, beginning in 1908 when the local Young Mens Christian Association formed a law school. After adding several colleges and changing names, YSU eventually gained university status in 1955. The school offers over 115 undergraduate programs today which range from studies in the arts, the medical field, and even STEM-related majors. YSU is conveniently located between the cities of Cleveland, OH and Pittsburgh, PA.

Program Features

Students can major in Dental Hygiene while also receiving certifications in practices such as local anesthesia. Students will take a total of nine semesters of coursework. Students do not learn theory exclusively, they also have the opportunity to practice clinical skills such as:

Notables

All students will be awarded membership to the YSU Student Chapter of the American Dental Hygienists Association. This group focuses on scholarly work as well as community service.

Overview

Graduates of the University of Southern Indiana are highly successful and ready to take on their careers. USI boasts a high pass rate for several professional certifications, including ones in Dental Hygiene. Not only do students boast high scholarship, but also an immense passion for their work. USI offers low-cost treatments to the community through its clinic. Many of the clinics workers are young students who are anxious to get a head start in their careers.

Program Features

USIs BS in Dental Hygiene degree is a highly competitive program where only about 24 students are accepted annually. Students work in small classes to develop the clinical skills needed for the field. Below are some highlights of the degree:

Notables

There are over ten scholarships listed on the Dental Hygiene major website. Several of them are specifically for dental-related studies. For instance, the American Dental Hygienists Association gives a $100 cash award to a student a part of its USI Student Chapter.

Overview

Explore the beautiful Northwest region of Cheney where Eastern Washington Universitys campus is located. Only a 20-minute drive from Spokane, Cheney provides an ideal college town life for many, offering a more rural suburb experience with a plethora of outdoor activities. Because EWU is so close to the city, students also have access to Spokane which offers a more metropolitan location, as well as access to more internship opportunities. The Colleges of Distinction recognized EWU in the 2017-2018 school year for its excellent degrees, undergraduate research, and student experience.

Program Features

EWU has two undergraduate degree options for Dental Hygiene: an entry-level program and a fully online BS degree completion program. The BS degree is for already licensed dental hygienists who hold an associate degree. Other features of the program are:

Notables

The BS completion degree can be taken part or full-time. Part-time students can expect to finish within three years, while full-time students will finish in only two. The majority of students continue to work professionally throughout enrollment.

Overview

Join Michigans largest Catholic university at the University of Detroit Mercy. It was established in 1877 by the Society of Jesus to educate the individual both intellectually and spiritually. Due to its Jesuit history, students today are encouraged to explore their faith while pursuing their degree. Detroit Mercy is a high-ranking institution, having been ranked among the best Midwest colleges by the U.S. News World Report for the past 18 years. It is also a best value school and is highly-favored by veterans due to its extensive network of support.

Program Features

Enroll in the School of Dentistrys BS in Dental Hygiene program. This highly structured degree will be completed in two years after students complete their two years of prerequisites. Classes are offered Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.

Notables

In the past, students have worked in the community to provide health education to local schools, volunteered at dental clinics, and worked within the special-needs community. They will be required to follow the programs technical standards, such as being able to acquire necessary patient health documentation and use critical thinking skills to solve problems in a timely fashion.

Overview

Located in Northern Californias Bay Area, the University of the Pacific is the oldest chartered university within the state. This nationally-ranked private campus operates 11 schools and colleges, with several programs within the health field. UOPs School of Dentistry was founded in 1896 and is proud to offer the best oral health care within the region. It is estimated that the school provides about $500,000 worth of uncompensated dental care to specifically marginalized local populations.

Program Features

Upon graduation of UOPs BS in Dental Hygiene degree, students will be prepared to take on not just the position of a licensed dental hygienist, but also positions in teaching, administration, and public health. Students can apply for the program as a freshman or as a transfer student.

Notables

Students can advance to the upper-division portion of the curriculum directly if they complete all prerequisite work with a GPA of at least 3.0. Advancing early can be done by completing coursework during the summertime, allowing them to graduate earlier as well. It can also be done early if students have taken college-level coursework throughout their high school years.

Overview

Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, more commonly referred to as IUPUI, is a public research university that merged many of its programs in 1969. It is known as the states premier research institution, championing many research and sustainability initiatives. IUPUIs School of Dentistry began in 1879 and is the place where 80% of the states dentists are trained. The school has produced more than 13,000 alumni since its founding. IUPUI is ranked as a top 200 university by the U.S. News World Report.

Program Features

There are two degree options: a BS in Dental Hygiene and a BS in Public Health Dental Hygiene. The Public Health program is for part-time students who may want to pursue a career not directly within Dental Hygiene.

Notables

This program is also offered on its Fort Wayne campus, offering two tracks: Community Dental Hygiene and Dental Hygiene Sales and Leadership. As both tracks require slightly different electives, it is helpful to track ones degree requirements through its online iGPS degree map technology.

Overview

Those who attend the University of Wyoming know the school as UW and is pronounced U-Dub. The universitys campus is located in Laramie, which was ranked as one of the best cities to retire in by Money in 2011. UW was established in 1886 near the Rocky Mountains. Students have access to small classes, wonderful on and off-campus activities, and top research facilities. It is especially recognized for its Cowboy mascot, which can be seen riding on the back of a bucking horse. In 2010, several magazines, such as the Princeton Review, ranked UW among their list of the best adventure colleges.

Program Features

The 120 credit hour Dental Hygiene program at UW results in two degrees: the Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene, and the BS degree. Graduates will have the knowledge and skills necessary to take the National Board of Dental Hygiene exam and the separate state licensure exam. Some courses that are offered are:

Notables

There is an education practicum course for future educators wishing to teach. This will be taken the last year of the program and only by permission of the instructor.

Overview

The University of New England offers holistic education, emphasizing student experience. Experiences here range from taking a variety of interesting courses to participating in undergraduate research opportunities or studying abroad. UNE is a private university in Maine that has three campuses. Two of those campuses are within the state, and one of them is in Tangier, Morocco. UNE is Maines largest private university and the biggest provider of healthcare professionals.

Program Features

By enrolling in UNEs BS in Dental Hygiene degree, one will receive a traditional liberal arts education while gaining the theoretical knowledge and clinical skills needed for the field. While the first four semesters of general education courses are taken on the Biddeford Campus, the last four semesters are held on the Portland Campus. Key highlights of the degree are:

Notables

The on-campus dental clinic that students get to work in serves about 5,000 patients annually. The Oral Health Center not only offers cleanings, but also helps patients with dentures, bridges, implants, and more.

Overview

Located in the beautiful capital of Honolulu, the University of Hawaii at Manoa is the oldest and largest campus within the states university system. In keeping with its local historic heritage, the school offers many programs such as Hawaiian and Pacific Islands studies. Not only does UH Manoa provide quality programs, but it also does at an affordable price. Its tuition is about $4,000 lower than the national average for a public university, contributing to the states low student debt rate. UH Manoa is ranked among the top 100 universities within the nation according to the Academic Ranking of World Universities.

Program Features

Looking for an accelerated program that will get you your degree faster? UH Manoas BS in Dental Hygiene can be completed in only three years in its cohort program. Upon graduation, students can sit for the National Board Of Dental Hygienes examination to obtain licensure.

Notables

The on-campus dental hygiene clinic operates through August and May. The clinic offers services for only $25 to the community and is a great place for students to get hours working with licensed faculty.

Overview

Founded in 1941, Utah Valley University is the largest public institution of higher learning within the state. It follows a dual-mission model, meaning it emphasizes both top-quality education programs and research. About 40,000 students are currently enrolled who represent over 70 countries. UVU was originally founded as a vocational school and later became a technical institution. Over the years the institution has changed in order to meet the growing educational needs of the region. The university currently serves the Wasatch, Summit, and Utah counties, which are known for an astounding range of outdoor activities.

Program Features

UVU offers a BS in Dental Hygiene completion program for those who already possess an associate degree. This completely online program is taken in the fall, spring, and summer semesters for two years. Other key characteristics include:

Notables

One community outreach program involves students spending two days a week in local elementary schools, providing x-rays and other services to grades second through sixth.

Overview

No school serves the states higher education needs more than the University of Maine at Augusta. UMA operates two main campuses, eight centers, and about 56 community learning sites. It enrolls approximately 5,500 students, making it the third-largest university within the system. UMA hopes to transform the lives of students through its liberal arts programs and civic engagement. According to a survey done from 2015 to 2018, 89% of students would recommend UMA.

Program Features

Earn your BS in Dental Hygiene in only three years at UMA. With as little as 20 students per class, everyone gets the attention they need from faculty. Classes are offered on its Augusta and Bangor campuses, as well as online for select courses. Some topics of coursework include:

Notables

Upon graduation, students are able to work as a registered dental hygienist through the Expanded Functions Dental Assistant program. This two-semester program is great for learning more clinical skills.

Overview

Get an affordable education at West Liberty University, a public institution located in West Virginia. West Liberty has its roots as a teachers college, with the goal of producing the next public school teachers. Today the university offers more than 70 different degrees. Classes maintain the small school feeling with an average student-to-faculty ratio of only 15:1. Several scholarships are available to those who need it. In 2019, West Liberty was featured in the U.S. News World Reports Best Colleges ranking.

Program Features

West Libertys BS in Dental Hygiene is comprised of 120 credit hours, with 62 of those hours specifically focusing on clinical Dental Hygiene coursework. This degree is housed in the Sarah Whitaker Glass Dental Hygiene School, which opened in 1938.

Notables

This programs clinic is located in a newly constructed building. There are nine treatment rooms equipped with advanced x-ray technology. Students also have access to similar technology within their classrooms.

Overview

In 1889, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints founded the school, which was then called Weber Stake Academy. The school is named after the county that it is located in. It wasnt until 1991 that the school gained university status, officially becoming Weber State University. Weber offers more than 225 degree and certificate programs on multiple campuses and through online distance learning. As a university that offers very flexible degrees, about 58% of its student population is part-time, with the average attendee age of 26 years old.

Program Features

Experienced professionals who already hold an associate degree, dental hygiene license, and have completed the board examination can apply to the BS in Dental Hygiene degree. In addition to the required associate degree courses, seven additional credit hours for the major are required for a total of 120 credit hours. Current courses offered are:

Notables

A unique thing about Webers program is that students in this field can participate in undergraduate research. There is an endowment specifically to fund projects and travel to professional conferences.

Overview

Since its beginning as an adult vocational school, Lake Washington Institute of Technology has always cared about providing practical education to young adults. Located near the city of Seattle, LW Tech offers primarily professional certificates in various STEM-related areas. It is the only public institute of technology within the state. Its undergraduate Dental Hygiene program is housed through the School of Health Sciences.

Program Features

Earn your Bachelors of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene at LW Tech. This program focuses on clinical skills, and thus students will have several opportunities to train outside of the dental clinic. Upon graduation, these are some of the skills students will have acquired:

Notables

Several outside scholarships are available for students who are part of an underrepresented minority or are enrolled in a STEM-related field. Interested applicants should go to the schools scholarship webpage.

Overview

Dixie State University is proud of its old west history the school is located in a territory that was first developed by travelers who were migrating to the west. Dixie State was established in 1911 by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but was taken over by the state in 1935. It is an affordable school that has a 100% acceptance rate. In addition, 84% of its students are offered some form of financial assistance. In sports settings, Dixie State teams are known as the Trailblazers.

Program Features

Dixie States BS in Dental Hygiene degree is a two-year program that is offered full time. Classes follow the semester system in the fall and spring. Summer courses may be taken online.

Notables

It is required that students only take three courses online during the summer of the second year: Biostatistics, Research Methodology, and Leadership Group Dynamics. All summer courses are offered online, allowing students the freedom to still travel while being on top of their degree.

Overview

What is life like as a Titan at Indiana University South Bend? With over 100 majors and 70 student organizations to choose from, students receive a holistic, well-rounded education. Although a large campus with over 5,000 enrolled students, individuals can still take advantage of tight-knit communities. For example, the Vera Z. Dwyer College of Health Sciences offers its Dental Hygiene program but also puts on many community outreach activities. In addition to IU South Bends campus containing over 100 classrooms with advanced technology, it also offers a health and wellness center and community dental clinic.

Program Features

Whether you are just starting your undergraduate education or already have a license and want to finish your degree, IU South Bends degree in Dental Hygiene is right for you. After completing four years of coursework including prerequisites and major requirements, students will earn their BS.

Notables

During the service-learning experience, students will find their own location to volunteer. In the past, some sites included: rehabilitation centers, research institutes, and nursing homes.

Overview

The College of Southern Nevada is a community college located within the Las Vegas region. Although the school primarily offers associate degrees and certificate programs, they also offer seven Bachelors degrees. One of those degrees is in Dental Hygiene offered within its School of Health Sciences. CSN is the largest and most ethnically diverse college within the state, operating a total of three campuses. Although a large institution, students take advantage of a small student-to-faculty ratio of 23:1.

Program Features

Get a BS in Dental Hygiene with either a Public Health or Education specialty. The Public Health plan may be better for those who wish to work more broadly in the health care system, while the Education specialty is more focused on community teaching. A sample of courses available include:

Notables

The program requires 16 credit hours to be taken directly in the specialty. Both specialties are considered a limited entry health sciences program, meaning that only a select few are able to be accepted. One specific qualification for this type of program is that students must complete a workshop before applying.

Overview

For the past 100 years, the Pennsylvania College of Technology has been a leader of innovation and technical, hands-on training. Penn College was founded as a vocational school as an effort to fight unemployment rates during the Great Depression. It received its current name in 1989 after becoming a technical institute. Due to its outstanding programs and teaching, Penn College has received numerous outstanding rankings. The U.S. News World Report ranks them the No. 3 Most Innovative School in the nation.

Program Features

Earn your BS in Dental Hygiene either as an entry-level student or an already licensed hygienist at Penn College. This degree also comes with a concentration in Health Policy and Administration. Check out the below features:

Notables

Students must wear designated uniforms when participating in the labs and clinics. These uniforms can be purchased online or in-person at the College Store.

Overview

Purdue University of Fort Wayne is a public university that is part of the Indiana University school system. Its metropolitan location provides unique cultural experiences as well as many internship opportunities. Fort Wayne is the second-largest city within the state. Its 688-acre campus enrolls over 10,000 students across its eight colleges and schools. IPFW is committed to positively impacting the state through research and is estimated to contribute a total economic value of $11 billion.

Program Features

IPFWs BS in Dental Hygiene is a four-year program with one year of prerequisites and three years of major courses. Those who hold an associate degree are also welcome to apply in the degree completion program. There are three specialty concentrations:

Students will be required to take nine credit hours of concentration courses.

Notables

Looking for guaranteed small class sizes? This program has a maximum cap of only 30 students per class to ensure all students have direct access to faculty.

Overview

Become apart of the states largest institution of higher education at the University of Alaska Anchorage. UAA was established in 1954 as a community college but became a four-year institution in the late 60s. Since its founding, it has retained strong pride in its Alaskan heritage and urges all students to develop awareness about the states history and native cultures. 91% of UAAs students are in-state residents. Although this is the largest campus, the university remains student-centered by having a small student-to-faculty ratio of only 14:1.

Program Features

Learn the necessary entry-level skills to become a successful dental hygienist. This BS in Dental Hygiene degree is perfect whether you are just starting or have state licensure. Throughout the program, students will go through several clinical seminars and practicums to make sure they are ready. Other classes available are:

Notables

This program prepares students to sit for the National Board examination and the state of Alaska licensure test. Those wishing to gain licensure in another state should talk to the department before enrolling.

Overview

Throughout its over 200 years of history, the University of Louisville has gone through several developments. From starting as a seminary to later becoming a major public research university, UofL shows how passion and hard work can create a nationally-recognized institution. The city of Louisville is the largest metropolitan area within the state of Kentucky. The university operates 12 colleges and schools, with its Health Sciences Center located in a prime location downtown. This center contains four schools and several hospitals, including the School of Dentistry.

Program Features

Join this four-year program and earn your BS in Dental Hygiene. During the first two years, general education classes are offered on its Belknap Campus. After applying for the major, all upper-division courses are held on the Health Sciences Campus. Learn clinical skills such as:

Notables

First-years are able to enter into the program beginning with lower-division courses either in the fall, spring, or summer. UofL also accepts transfer students, provided that they meet the prerequisites.

Overview

Be the envy of many by enrolling at the University of Hawaii Maui College, and study your passion on the beautiful Maui island. Although the college primarily offers associate degrees and certificates, some Bachelors programs are available. UH Maui began as a vocational school in 1931, serving not only Maui but also the islands of Molokai and Lanai. It is a relatively small school, with only a little over 3,300 undergraduates. One of UH Mauis most notable Bachelors programs is its Dental Hygiene degree, which helps to offer many low-cost oral hygiene services at the Daniel K. Inouye Allied Health Center.

Program Features

After completion of the associate degree, students are welcome to apply for UH Mauis two-year BS in Dental Hygiene program. Courses are offered in the fall and spring semester, as well as in one eight-week summer session between years. Sample courses include:

Notables

Students will be allowed to give some of the following services at the clinic under supervision: root planing, coronal polishing, radiographs, and sealants.