Most Affordable Nursing Degrees in Kentucky

September 24, 2020 | Staff Writers

Are you ready to find your fit?

Kentucky is home to around 45,500 active Registered Nurses (RNs). That number is about to increase ten-fold.

That’s not just in Kentucky. The nursing profession as a whole is currently in flux. Recently, an initiative was started to increase the minimum college education level for RNs. This initiative was launched by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), and it seeks to double (from 40% to 80%) the number of American RNs holding a BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree, by 2020. Kentucky is one of the first states in line to participate.

What kind of Nursing Degree in Kentucky should you earn?

As employers in public and private sectors are adjusting to this initiative, so are nursing schools. This includes rethinking their BSN offerings, finding funding for updated learning and practice technologies, and offering affordable online learning options for the working professional.

That’s why we’ve settled in on a few key factors for this list:

Affordability (in-state tuition)
Compliance with the IOM initiative

Some of these programs have online options; others have traditional set-ups. Either way, you can look forward to getting a “best buy” program in Kentucky. And even better, you’ll be participating in a nation-wide initiative to improve the quality and care of the nursing profession.

Top 10 Most Affordable Nursing Degrees in Kentucky

Rank	School	Location
1	Farmingdale State College	Farmingdale, NY
2	University of Louisiana at Monroe	Monroe, LA
3	University of New Mexico-Main Campus	Albuquerque, NM
4	Eastern Washington University	Cheney, WA
5	Western Kentucky University	Bowling Green, KY
6	Ferris State University	Big Rapids, MI
7	Augusta University	Augusta, ME
8	Wichita State University	Wichita, KS
9	Minnesota State University-Mankato	Mankato, MN
10	East Tennessee State University	Johnson City, TN

Accredited Online College Programs

How much money can you make with a Nursing Degree in Kentucky?

Based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average registered nurse in Kentucky is making an hourly wage of $28.76. That adds up to around $59,810 per year. Given that the average income in Kentucky is $46k, RNs in this state are making bank!

Based on a current demand for RNs nationwide, your job security is projected to be very secure in the near future. The BLS expects a 16% job growth for RNs for the next six years.

What are the Most Affordable Nursing Schools in Kentucky?

The NCES (National Center for Education Statistics) database indicates that 20 schools of nursing in the state of Kentucky offered a BSN program in the last academic year. We’ve taken that data, removed any programs/schools that are inactive or defunct, and sorted the list to present the 10 most affordable BSN programs in the state, by in-state tuition.

Our data and information comes from college and university websites, the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, and U.S. News and World Report. Get ready to take a huge leap forward in your career. Read on!

Rankings

See our rankings methodology page.

Farmingdale State College

Location
Farmingdale, NY

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
45%

View School Profile

Overview

Farmingdale State College is the State University of New York System s largest college of applied science and technology. Based in Long Island, the school is committed to student success and inclusiveness. FSC enrolls more than 10,000 students who choose from 41 undergraduate programs. It s recognized for its excellent value and is considered one of the top colleges in the North. The university offers a nationally recognized BS in Dental Hygiene online.

Program Features

Farmingdale s Bachelor s of Science in Dental Hygiene program is designed for registered dental hygienists who would like to expand their career opportunities. The program can be completed full-time or part-time and is delivered by dedicated, expert faculty. Courses focus on topics in teaching, research, and public health that are foundational to emerging roles in dental hygiene. These courses include:
Practice Management for Quality Assurance Oral Epidemiology in Public Health Teaching Strategies for Health Care Educators Gerontology Health Science Research: Principles and Methods
Notables

Students complete an applied learning capstone practicum, during which they investigate a specific area of interest via an internship. They are assigned personal mentors and may partner with hospitals, corporations, research laboratories, educational institutions, or public health programs and facilities.
University of Louisiana at Monroe

Location
Monroe, LA

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
41%

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Overview

Established in 1931, the University of Louisiana at Monroe is a public university that emphasizes quality instruction, service, and research. It s part of the University of Louisiana System and currently serves 8,000 students. ULM offers a diverse selection of degrees across five colleges and through ULM Online. Online programs blend rigorous courses with helpful support and student resources. One of ULM s online degrees is an affordable degree completion program in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

The Bachelor sof Science Degree Completion in Dental Hygiene was created for dental hygienists who already hold an associate s degree. You ll work closely with professionals in the field of dentistry to develop in-demand skills while earning your bachelor s degree. The program integrates biomedical and behavioral sciences through courses like:
Management of the Medically Compromised Patient Research Design for Healthcare Clinical Dental Hygiene Technique Community and Preventive Dentistry Periodontology
Notables

All students benefit from field experiences in aspects of community dental health such as program planning, needs assessment, and follow-up evaluations on program success. A dental hygiene practicum is also required in the laboratory and clinical teaching, evaluation, and program development.
University of New Mexico-Main Campus

Location
Albuquerque, NM

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
48%

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Overview

The University of New Mexico was founded in Albuquerque, NM in 1889 as the state s flagship university. In total, the public research university serves more than 24,000 students. It s known for both creative endeavors and cutting-edge research. UNM offers a variety of programs across 12 colleges and schools as well as online. Of the university s 215 degree programs, many are nationally ranked, and all provide both rigor and a supportive environment. One offering is the affordable online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

Designed for registered dental hygienists, the Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene helps students expand their skills and knowledge into areas like teaching, research, management, or public health. The program consists of 12 credit hours of core courses and 12-24 credit hours of electives. Students have the flexibility to design the curriculum based on individual career interests and goals. You can expect to take courses such as:
Current Issues in Dental Hygiene Dental Hygiene Research Methodology Extramural Experience Dental Public Health I
Notables

Applicants must submit official transcripts, a copy of their national board score, a copy of a current license, and a passport photograph. An interview with the program s director is also required. Courses are offered in an eight-week format, and students can complete the program full-time or part-time.
Eastern Washington University

Location
Cheney, WA

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
46%

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Overview

A public university in Cheney, WA, Eastern Washington University currently serves 12,607 students. It was founded in 1882 to provide educational excellence and create opportunities for personal transformation. EWU s three core themes are learning, access, and completion. With more than 60 fields of study to choose from, EWU offers an educational experience that is collaborative, dynamic, and personal. One online option is a BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

EWU s Bachelor s of Science in Dental Hygiene allows licensed dental hygienists to broaden their degree with a liberal arts education. Students develop skills like writing, critical thinking, researching, and analysis. All courses are taught through Canvas, which has interactive capabilities like video conferencing. The program can be completed within two years full-time and features courses like:
Oral Health Promotion Relationship, Ethics, and Communication in Healthcare Principles of Dental Public Health Applied Statistics and Evidence Based Decision Making for the Health Sciences Principles and Policies of Oral Healthcare Management
Notables

Students learn to create an electronic portfolio, apply research to their work as dental hygienists, develop programs, synthesize knowledge, and understand the role of the dental hygienist on an interprofessional healthcare team. The program concludes with a dental hygiene capstone and an education/health promotion practicum.
Western Kentucky University

Location
Bowling Green, KY

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
44%

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Overview

Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY is a public university founded in 1906. WKU enrolls over 20,000 students but maintains personalized attention and small class sizes. It s ranked among the best schools in the South by U.S. News and World Report and is also recognized for its quality teaching and offering of highly affordable programs. WKU s abundance of programs features something for everyone. For you, there s an online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

WKU s affordable Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene can be completed in as little as 15 months. The degree completion program is intended for students with an associate s degree from an accredited dental hygiene program. The program is fully accredited by the Council of Dental Education/Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. Courses include:
Preventive Dental Hygiene Care Pre-Clinical Dental Hygiene Clinical Dental Hygiene Dental Pharmacology Pain Control in Dentistry
Notables

Applicants must also hold a current license in dental hygiene. Official transcripts are required, along with ACT and SAT scores if applicable. The minimum GPA for acceptance to the program is a 2.8.
Ferris State University

Location
Big Rapids, MI

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
43%

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Overview

Ferris State University was founded in 1884 in Big Rapids, MI. The public university offers 190 degree programs to nearly 14,000 students. Some of these programs aren t available anywhere else in Michigan or even the United States. All courses are taught by professors, typically in small groups to facilitate a personalized learning experience. Engaging, high-quality degree programs are also offered through Ferris Online, including a BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

The online Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene is designed for students with an associate s degree in the field. In consultation with industry leaders, the professionally-centered program was built to provide students with immediately applicable skills and knowledge. You ll improve your technology practice, examine the latest research, and hone your leadership and critical thinking skills. You ll take courses like:
Health Promotion and Wellness Dental Hygiene Informatics Community Program Assessment/Planning Comprehensive Patient Assessment Pain Control for Dental Hygiene Practice
Notables

Ferris State s program has been recognized for its affordability and the high-quality, career-oriented training students receive. Those who transfer from a community college save thousands of dollars, and 83% of students also receive some form of financial aid. Students are also required to complete a dental hygiene capstone and practicum for completion of the program.
Augusta University

Location
Augusta, ME

Tuition
$$$$$

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Overview

Located in Augusta, GA, Augusta University is a medical center and public research university. It was established in 1828 to educate future generations of leaders, innovators, and healthcare providers. The university conducts research and teaches skills focused on enriching and improving the human experience. AU serves more than 10,000 students across 10 colleges and schools in addition to its distance learning platform. One of the university s 159 academic offerings is an online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

Augusta s Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene, like other programs listed here, is a degree completion program. The accredited program consists of 60 hours of core prerequisite courses and 30 hours of degree completion courses. Students must complete these courses before they can be awarded 30 hours of professional credit prior to graduation. Courses include:
Dental Hygiene Case Management Dental Informatics Public Health and Workforce Issues Assessment of Recognized Dental Specialties Current Issues in Periodontics
Notables

Students are strongly encouraged to complete all prerequisite courses before applying. Financial aid is available in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and other options. All courses are also available during the summer semester. Students may take a maximum of three, five credit hour courses at a time.
Wichita State University

Location
Wichita, KS

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
44%

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Overview

Wichita State University is a public research university in Wichita, KS emphasizing innovation, entrepreneurship, creativity, and collaboration. Its mission is to prepare students to make a positive impact on the world. Over 15,000 students benefit from the school s unmatched industry connections and hands-on learning opportunities. Through 10 colleges and schools, plus online programs, WSU offers a diverse range of top-quality degree programs, including the online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

Noted as one of the nation s most affordable Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene programs, WSU s program helps students advance their careers, explore options in alternate settings, and potentially seek a graduate degree. The 32-credit hour program can be completed in just 15 months. Students complete two electives and nine required courses, including:
Fundamentals of Advanced Professional Roles Educational Methodology in Dental Hygiene Curriculum Design, Evaluation, and Management in Dental Hygiene Issues in Dental Hygiene Research and Evidence-Based Practice in Dental Hygiene
Notables

Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5, an associate s degree from a regionally accredited school, as well as a dental hygiene license. Students may qualify to apply 28 hours of retroactive credit to the degree. In addition, all students are eligible to pay in-state tuition.
Minnesota State University-Mankato

Location
Mankato, MN

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
50%

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Overview

Originally established to train teachers, Minnesota State University was founded in 1868 in Mankato, near the Minnesota River Valley. In the years since, MSU has blossomed into an accredited university serving more than 15,000 students and offering over 200 degree programs. 130 of these programs are for undergraduate students, including 13 pre-professional programs. In addition, many programs are available in a convenient, self-paced format online. You may be interested in the fully online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

MSU Mankato s degree completion program for the Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene helps students increase their knowledge and skills in the field. Advisors help students develop an individual plan of study that fulfills degree requirements and aligns with their professional goals. The program includes 32 credits of required courses, accounting for 11 courses total. These requirements include:
Advanced Dental Hygiene Practice Current Issues in Dental Hygiene Technology in Oral Health Research Methods in Dental Hygiene Oral Medicine and Treatment Planning
Notables

Full-time students can complete the program in three semesters. Courses are typically offered twice each year. Students with an accepted AS or AAS degree typically need to complete 2-4 additional general education courses. Those with an accepted AA degree should not have to take any additional courses.
East Tennessee State University

Location
Johnson City, TN

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
43%

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Overview

East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, TN is a public university serving more than 14,500 students. ETSU provides an enriching, student-centered learning experience built on relationships, diversity, commitment, and efficiency. Students choose from more than 140 dynamic academic programs across 11 colleges and schools. Distance learning options provide students with both quality and flexibility, and courses are taught by award-winning, on-campus faculty. One online option is a BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

ETSU s online Bachelor s of Science in Dental Hygiene Degree Completion is one of the first and most successful programs of its kind. Students develop expertise in key topics like building an evidence-based practice, pain management, working with underserved populations and geriatrics, teaching strategies for health professionals, current approaches and best practices, and more. Courses include:
Dental Hygiene Theory and Practice Teaching Strategies for Allied Health Supportive Periodontal Therapy Community and Rural Dental Health Pharmacology for Dental Hygiene
Notables

Applicants must submit a resume that outlines work experience in dental hygiene. The degree program is research- and writing-based, helping students develop both communication and technology skills that will boost their success in any career. All students must attend a one-day on-campus orientation.
University of Missouri-Kansas City

Location
Kansas City, MO

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
52%

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Overview

A public research university with more than 16,000 students, the University of Missouri-Kansas City is known for its inclusive, diverse campus and award-winning academic programs. Princeton Review considers UMKC one of the Best Midwestern Colleges.The university is focused on student success and offers a wealth of resources and tools. And with 125 available areas of study, UMKC helps students discover and build exciting careers. You may be interested in UMKC s online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

Created with working professionals in mind, the Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene allows students to tailor their degree according to personal and professional needs, career expectations, and any existing dental hygiene degree. Courses focus on evidence-based practice in the clinical, behavioral, and biomedical sciences and include:
Dental Radiology Introduction to the Preventive Practice of Dental Hygiene Oral Health Behavior Change Oral Physiology Principles of Periodontics
Notables

Students visit campus three times over the course of the program. They benefit from the school s emphasis on interprofessional connections with students in medical, nursing, health studies, dentistry, and pharmacy programs. The program can lead to career opportunities in public health, program administration, education, specialized patient care, research, and advanced clinical practice.
Northern Arizona University

Location
Flagstaff, AZ

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
52%

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Overview

Northern Arizona University is a public research university in Flagstaff, AZ. Founded in 1899, the school provides a student-centered education to over 31,000 students. Students enjoy personalized teaching by world-class faculty. NAU s online programs are no exception. NAU Online boasts 30 years of experience in distance education, ensuring that every student is given the tools and support needed to succeed. One of the university s online offerings is an affordable BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

NAU s Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene strengthens students skills in evidence-based practice, technology use, communication, and statistics. It prepares students to move into a related field or to advance their current careers in education, management, public health, sales and marketing, or research. Ultimately, students are empowered to improve health in individuals and communities through courses like:
Professional Development for Dental Hygiene Community Health Assessment and Program Planning Professional Practice: Communication and Behavior Oral Health Research Cultural Diversity in Healthcare
Notables

Students complete 21 units of required Dental Hygiene courses, 3 units of Dental Hygiene electives, and additional upper-division requirements. A program implementation and evaluation capstone course is also required.
Old Dominion University

Location
Norfolk, VA

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
52%

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Overview

Ranked one of the nation s Best Southeastern schools by Princeton Review, Old Dominion University is a public research university in coastal Norfolk, VA. The forward-thinking university enrolls over 24,000 students. It features three extended campuses and an extensive selection of online programs. ODU s online programs are delivered by engaging faculty who blend comprehensive theory with practical knowledge. One exciting online option is an online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

The 30-credit Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene program advances students knowledge and skills for either graduate study or a wide range of career opportunities. The program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Most classes can be completed on your schedule, but some professors may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. Core requirements include:
Perspectives on Dental Hygiene Practice Educational Concepts for Health Professions Research Methods in Health Sciences Administrative Leadership and Professional Development Telehealthcare Technology
Notables

Students can select the Accelerated Dental Hygiene Degree option. It allows undergraduates to accelerate from the bachelor s degree to the master s degree using common core courses toward each degree. A Senior Assessment must be completed during the final semester.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Location
Ann Arbor, MI

Tuition
$$$$$

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Overview

The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI is considered one of the world s top public research universities. UM is also ranked No. 4 among public universities nationally by U.S. News and World Report. More than 46,000 students choose from over 275 renowned degree programs. The school is also noted for its spirited students and alumni as well as its excellent value. It consists of 19 colleges and schools and Michigan Online, where you can pursue a BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

The flexible Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene provides students with the experiential and educational background to rise to the challenge of today s advancing dental hygiene needs and requirements. The 36-credit hour program can be completed in 24 months. Most courses run for seven weeks and include:
Oral Diseases: Prevention and Management Health Promotion and Risk Reduction Research/Evidence Based Practice Special Populations Dental Hygiene Education
Notables

To accommodate community projects and student teaching, students should have at least one available weekday. You should also be able to commit a minimum of 18 hours weekly to the program. A two-day on-campus orientation is required for all students the month before online classes begin. Students complete an e-portfolio, field experience, and practicum.
Oregon Institute of Technology

Location
Klamath Falls, OR

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
47%

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Overview

The Oregon Institute of Technology is a public polytechnic university based in Klamath Falls, OR. It has four additional locations and offers a variety of academic programs online. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school No. 2 among public regional universities in the West. PayScale has also recognized the university for offering an excellent return on investment. Oregon Tech Online provides flexible, interactive, nationally recognized degree programs like a BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

OIT s Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene program blends dental hygiene, education, management, and public health courses with a general education core. The degree plan is customized based on transfer and registry credits, personal interests, and individual career goals. Courses in this nationally recognized program include:
General and Oral Pathology Introduction to Periodontology Emergency Procedures Community Dental Health Prevention I-V
Notables

Credits are granted for courses completed at other colleges and for completion of the dental hygiene national board examination. Students receive 86 credits toward their bachelor s degree for successful completion of the exam. Graduates advance or find new options in their careers, and many go on to graduate study in education, business, and more.
University of South Dakota

Location
Vermillion, SD

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
56%

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Overview

As South Dakota s flagship university, the University of South Dakota was founded in 1862 in Vermillion, SD. The school enrolls just under 10,000 students and is known for providing a wide range of unique opportunities and programs. Since 1992, USD has appeared on U.S. News and World Report s list of the nation s top colleges. The university features over 275 degree programs, including an online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

Students in the Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene program complete courses emphasizing interprofessional practice, leadership, inclusive patient care, current trends in dentistry, and collaborative dental hygiene practice. The program is intended to prepare students to successfully meet the rapidly changing demands of the dental hygiene field. Courses include:
Dental Hygiene Leadership Oral Local Anesthesia and Lab Interprofessional Dental Education and Practice Current Trends in Dentistry Inclusive Patient Care
Notables

Applicants must have completed or be currently enrolled in an associate s degree program in dental hygiene. Students still enrolled in a program must submit a letter from the program director or chairperson indicating good standing in the program and the likelihood of graduation. Transcripts are also required.
Ohio State University-Main Campus

Location
Columbus, OH

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
84%

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Overview

Ranked in the Top 20 among public universities nationally, Ohio State University is based in Columbus, Ohio. It s the state s highest-ranked public university and serves over 67,000 students. OSU is known for innovation, inclusivity, academic achievement, graduate employability, and thriving athletic programs. It s also recognized for its efforts to control tuition rates. The university offers more than 200 academic programs, including an affordable online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

OSU s Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene program creates a stimulating educational environment that provides advanced skills and knowledge in dental hygiene. Although the degree can be completed with no campus visits, it s still interactive, collaborative, and engaging. You ll take courses taught by experienced, world-class faculty, such as:
Periodontal Therapy Research Methods and Interpretation Practice Management Current Concepts in Dental Hygiene
Notables

U.S. News and World Report ranks OSU s program No. 3 among online bachelor s degree programs. On OSU s website, prospective students can take a readiness assessment and test drive a course. The program is authorized in every U.S. state but has limited authorization in Colorado.
Eastern International College

Location
Belleville, NJ

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
92%

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Overview

Eastern International College opened in 1990 to educate students in medical practices. The allied-health college in Jersey City, NJ is devoted to the professional development of its students. EIC is career-oriented and student-centered, providing its diverse student body with challenging curricula and caring, responsive student services. The school promotes excellence in teaching, learning, and service through programs like the online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

Students enrolled in EIC s Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene program develop knowledge and skills that go beyond entry-level dental hygiene requirements. They learn to create diverse treatment plans, provide quality care in an expanding public health arena, and open the door to additional career opportunities. Courses are delivered in a sequence, with each course building on the knowledge established in previous courses. These courses include:
Educational Methodology for Dental Hygiene Cultural Competency and Dental Hygiene Care for Target Populations Statistical and Methodological Aspects of Oral Health Research Leadership Roles for the Dental Hygiene Professional Epidemiology of Oral Diseases
Notables

The program runs in quarters rather than semesters, with each course lasting for 10 weeks. In total, the program consists of 180 quarter credits, including 30 in general education and 60 in the dental hygiene program major. Students can transfer up to 74% of their total transfer hours. The program can be completed in 16 months.
Vermont Technical College

Location
Randolph Center, VT

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
55%

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Overview

Based in Randolph, VT, Vermont Technical College offers applied technical knowledge that prepares students to meet workforce demand. U.S. News and World Report ranks VTC No. 19 among Best Northeast Regional Colleges and No. 17 for Best Value. With 1,584 students, the university provides a personalized and supportive educational experience. Students choose from more than 45 programs at 13 sites and online. VTC offers an online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

The two-year Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene degree completion program consists of 120 credits. Students explore occupational settings like sales, research, education, and public health. While broadening their knowledge base, they also develop skills like evidence-based research and critical thinking. No campus visits are required. All courses can be completed online, and they include:
Evidence-Based Decision Making in Dental Hygiene Contemporary Issues in Dental Hygiene Practice Management Advanced Community Oral Health Dental Hygiene Methodology and Leadership
Notables

Vermont Tech s program graduates have a 100% placement rate. Students of the BS in Dental Hygiene advance to graduate school or are employed as surgical and dental assistants, dental hygienists, and program coordinators. Employers include Community Health Centers of Burlington, Timberlane, Heaton Fisch, and Middlebury Dental Group. Students have six years to complete the degree.
Pennsylvania College of Technology

Location
Williamsport, PA

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
45%

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Overview

Ranked the most innovative school in the North by U.S. News and World Report, Pennsylvania College of Technology is a public college in Williamsport, PA. The school also received high rankings for Best Value and for being one of the best overall universities in the northern region. Penn College enrolls 5,319 students and offers comprehensive degrees in a student-centered, hands-on environment. The school offers over 100 majors, including an online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

Penn College s Bachelor s of Science in Dental Hygiene offers both rigor and flexibility. It provides part-time and full-time options and boasts a 100% overall placement rate. The program emphasizes communication, collaboration, and the blending of specialized knowledge with a broad understanding of science, history, and the arts. You ll take courses like:
Issues in Professional Dental Hygiene Dental Practice Management Health Care Delivery Systems United States Health Policymaking Introduction to Global Health
Notables

All students pay in-state tuition. There are no required campus visits, and students interact one-on-one with faculty via the online platform. Tutoring is available online 24/7 as is the purchase of textbooks and online materials through the College Store. Potential career fields include research, public health administration, entrepreneurship, education, and more.
Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Location
Boston, MA

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
70%

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Overview

The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences has educated future healthcare leaders for nearly 200 years. It provides an innovative, collaborative education bolstered by close relationships with renowned medical and research institutions. The Wall Street Journal ranked the Boston-based university No. 1 in the nation in empowering its students. MCPHS s online classes are taught by the same faculty who train students on campus. One of the school s engaging online programs is a BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

The Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene helps students build on their associate s degree and previous experience in order to advance as a dental hygienist. Students may receive up to 44 credits for prior coursework and work experience. A completion of 40 credits from the arts and sciences core as well as 36 core credits are also required for the degree. In this program, students take fully-online courses such as:
Oral Health Research Methods Evidence-Based Dental Hygiene Practice Oral Health in Special Care Populations Healthcare Management Planning Health Education and Promotion
Notables

All students must attend an orientation on the Boston campus before the start of classes. Students also complete a practicum. Students who earn a bachelor s degree from MCPHS receive a 100% tuition scholarship toward one of six online master s degrees. The school also offers the nation s first and only online Associate stoMaster s of Science in Dental Hygiene Bridge Program.
University of Bridgeport

Location
Bridgeport, CT

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
30%

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Overview

A private university in Bridgeport, CT, the University of Bridgeport offers uniquely career-oriented degree programs. UB was founded in 1927 and promotes personal responsibility, commitment to service, and academic excellence. It enrolls close to 3,000 students and is home to the world s first school of dental hygiene. The Fones School of Dental Hygiene has been a pioneer in the field for over 100 years. You can earn your BS in Dental Hygiene through the school s online platform.

Program Features

Bridgeport s Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene can be completed in as little as two years. Students have the opportunity to customize the program plan based on their personal career goals, empowering them to directly apply new expertise to a work setting. Along the way, students enhance their inquiry, critical thinking, communication, decision-making, and leadership skills. Courses include:
Dental Hygiene Practice Management Instructional Strategies for the Health Professional Advanced Clinical Concepts Statistical Reasoning Dental Hygiene Internship
Notables

Applicants must submit transcripts, a photocopy of a dental hygiene license in good standing, and a 500-word personal statement. Transfer students may apply 60-90 transfer credits toward the degree upon approval. 121 total credits are required, with a minimum of 31 credits completed through the University of Bridgeport. This includes 22 credits in dental hygiene core courses.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

Location
San Antonio, TX

Tuition
$$$$$

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Overview

The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio is a health science education and research institution. Its mission is to improve health care through discovery, innovation, and educating the next generation of qualified and caring health care professionals. UT Health San Antonio offers nearly 70 degree specialties across five schools, including the highly regarded School of Dentistry. The School of Dentistry is home to an online BS in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

Dental hygienists hoping to elevate and advance their careers are well-suited for UT Health San Antonio s Bachelor sof Science in Dental Hygiene. The program is extremely flexible and self-directed. Students may have opportunities to work with other medical and dental specialties throughout the university. They develop expertise in dental and dental hygiene sciences, principles of dental hygiene therapy, and theories on patient care through courses like:
Advanced Periodontics Health Promotion Current Issues in Dental Hygiene Leadership Development Dental Hygienist Role in the Management of Elder Abuse
Notables

When evaluating applications, UT Health San Antonio considers overall academic and professional ability, including recommendations, awards and accomplishments, and community service. Bilingual ability is a plus. Students complete several practicum experiences during the program. Graduates may work in teaching, marketing, research, sales, and dental management.
St Petersburg College

Location
Clearwater, FL

Tuition
$$$$$

Graduation Rate
33%

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Overview

Located in St. Petersburg, FL, St. Petersburg College is a state college founded in 1927. SPC offers career-focused programs, excellent tuition rates, and a range of flexible options. These include 11 locations throughout the state, weekend classes, and more than 650 online courses. Graduates have a 90% placement rate and earn higher entry-level wages than other state community college graduates. One of SPC s highly affordable online programs is a Bachelor s of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene.

Program Features

The Bachelor sof Applied Science in Dental Hygiene at SPC is the only online program of its kind in Florida. Courses are offered one by one for 6-8 weeks, with one week off between courses. The program can be completed in 24 months and culminates in a 14-week capstone. The capstone integrates the student s individual career goals through interning, observing, mentoring, and teaching. Courses include:
Dental Hygiene Educational Concepts Contemporary Issues in Dental Hygiene Practice Management for the Dental Hygienist Community Health and Epidemiology Concepts of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
Notables

SPC s completely-online program has no campus or residency requirements. Students progress through the program with a cohort of 15-20 students, interacting regularly through discussion boards. Graduates work in hospitals, nursing homes, public health clinics, managed care facilities, dental and pharmaceutical sales and management, and dental hygiene academia.

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