Best Online Associate In Dental Hygiene Programs
- FAQ
- Degree Goals
- Why Get a Dental Hygiene Degree
- Degree Requirements
- Professional Organizations
- Scholarships
- Ranking
Earn a Associate in Dental Hygiene
Dental hygienists provide oral care to patients of all ages. They provide preventative care and dental assistance including conducting cleanings, applying sealants to patients’ teeth, and educating clients about effective oral hygiene techniques. Hygienists also use X-rays and other tools to examine clients for signs of oral disease or to perform dental surgery.
Many community colleges and technical schools offer dental hygiene degrees, as do some four-year institutions. Students enter dental hygiene programs immediately following high school or to change careers. Dental hygienists need a license to practice in all 50 states. They work in dentists’ offices and at other facilities such as community health centers.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a very good job outlook for dental hygienists. They can expect 9% job growth between 2023-2033 and a median annual pay of $87,530. Both exceed the statistics for all occupations. The following guide provides more information for those interested in pursuing a degree in dental hygiene.
Dental Hygienist Frequently Asked Questions
How many years does it take to be a dental hygienist?
Programs typically take 2.5-3 years to complete. However, many schools offer two-year options.
What exactly does a dental hygienist do?
Dental hygienists provide oral care such as tartar and plaque removal, sealant application for tooth protection, and oral health assessments for patient recommendations.
How many hours a week do dental hygienists work?
They work on a full- or part-time basis, depending on the practice. Many work on a part-time basis, giving them flexibility to work for multiple practices or juggle other obligations.
Can you get a dental hygiene degree online?
No. Students must attend classes, complete clinicals, and meet other requirements in person. However, some programs allow students to complete general education requirements online.
What Are the Goals of a Dental Hygiene Degree?
An associate degree in dental hygiene provides students with the theoretical knowledge and technical expertise required for employment in various delivery settings. Dental hygienist schools offer associate of science (AS) or associate of applied science (AAS) in dental hygiene programs.
The curriculum typically requires a limited number of general education credits in subjects such as psychology, sociology, and anatomy. Occupational coursework examines topics such as clinical procedures, periodontology, dental materials, and preventative practice. All students complete a series of hands-on labs to gain experience. Some schools run dental clinics that allow students to provide services to community members.
Students should ensure that the school they plan to attend holds accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation. All states require that dental hygienists hold a license to practice, and the requirements vary by state. Accredited dental hygiene programs prepare students to sit for the National Board of Dental Hygiene Examination and meet state practical examinations.
Why Get a Dental Hygiene Degree?
People exploring dental hygiene degree benefits want to ensure that their investment pays off. The healthcare field remains one of the most robust sectors for job growth and pay. This includes the dental and dental hygiene fields. The following lists five benefits of a dental hygiene degree.
- 1
Job Stability
Associate degree-holders in dental hygiene can look forward to 6% job growth, making the career a good investment because of a strong job market.
- 2
Competitive Salary
Dental hygienists earn a median pay of $87,530 annually, making this a well-paying job with wages almost double the $48,060 median for all workers.
- 3
Fast-Track Programming
Many schools offer accelerated programs for career changers and those seeking to enter the field right out of high school. Many can earn an AS or AAS in just two years.
- 4
Schedule Flexibility
Dentists often hire hygienists to work part-time a few times a week, allowing them to work for multiple practices. It also gives them the freedom to pursue higher education or manage other responsibilities.
- 5
Affordable Education
Students attending two-year institutions pay a fraction of the tuition their peers do at four-year colleges. This makes a two-year dental hygiene degree a very affordable option.
What Are the Requirements for a Dental Hygiene Degree?
People interested in a dental hygiene program need a high school diploma or GED certificate. Schools often require students to complete prerequisite courses such as math, biology, and anatomy for admission. Students need a minimum 2.5 GPA on average. Learners submit school transcripts with their application.
Once admitted, students complete 70-90 credits, depending on the program. The curriculum’s extensive training gives participants the skills to provide clinical and therapeutic services, and to meet state licensure requirements.
Enrollees complete most of their courses in-person. They participate in a series of clinicals that accompany many courses. Some colleges offer dental hygiene clinics where dental hygiene students work under licensed dental professionals’ supervision. This gives students experience providing services, including radiographs (X-rays), periodontal screening, and oral evaluation. Students must successfully demonstrate theoretical and clinical competency to graduate.
Professional Organizations for Dental Hygiene Students
Professional organizations keep students in dental hygiene programs abreast of industry developments. They give members access to publications, networking, and mentorship opportunities. See three dental hygienist professional organizations below.
American Dental Hygienists Association
ADHA represents the dental hygienists’ interests on the national and state levels. The organization offers a student membership option for enrollees in an accredited dental hygiene program. Member benefits include access to educational programs, a board exam review, networking opportunities, and professional discounts.
American Dental Education Association
ADEA’s membership includes dentists and other oral health professionals such as dental hygienists. The organization offers a student membership category. Member benefits include Journal of Dental Education access, professional development resources, and the dental community network ADEA connect.
American Dental Association
The ADA represents dentists and dental students. Students pursuing a dental hygiene degree and dental hygienists receive access to some of the organization’s resources. The ADA Career Center allows dental hygienists to search for employers in their community.
Scholarships for Dental Hygiene Students
Scholarships provide students with funding for tuition and other expenses. Sponsoring organizations award funding based on student need or academic achievement. They may also establish scholarships for specific populations such as women or minorities. The following lists three scholarships for dental hygiene students.
National Dental Association Foundation – Dental Hygiene Scholarship
Who Can Apply: The NDAF offers scholarships for dental care professionals including dental hygienists. The organization awards a dental hygiene scholarship based on financial need. Students must remain enrolled in good standing at an accredited program to qualify. They must provide evidence of community service and submit a letter of support from an NDA member.
Amount: $800
Dr. Kyle Hornby Annual Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Students interested in pursuing a career in dentistry, including aspiring dental hygienists, qualify for this scholarship. Students need a minimum 3.7 GPA and must submit a 1,000-word essay outlining their career aspirations.
Amount: $500
ANSWER Scholarship
Who Can Apply: ANSWER offers this scholarship to nontraditional female students in parts of the Carolinas. Applicants over 25 with at least one school-aged child may qualify. Candidates submit FAFSA results, recommendation letters, and transcripts. Recipients must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA and meet mentoring requirements.
Amount: Varies
Best Associate in Dental Hygiene Programs
Northeast Mississippi Community College
Booneville, MS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Northeast Mississippi Community College, located in Booneville, Mississippi, operates as a public institution. The school offers 49 online associate programs in many professional and academic fields. Students can gain admission to the two-year program with a high school diploma or GED certificate. The school administers placement tests to create customized graduation plans for incoming students. Contact the program to learn more about admission requirements and start dates.
The flexible learning format makes it easier for students to earn a college degree. Many programs use a fully asynchronous format, which allows online learners to complete coursework at any time of day.
After earning an associate degree in dental hygiene, graduates enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program. The accredited institution maintains articulation agreements with four-year colleges, making it easier for graduates to apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Northeast Mississippi Community College Facts:
Online Enrollment: 2,092
Percent of Undergrads who Graduate: 30%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,310
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $6,290
- In-State$3,310
- Out-of-state$6,290
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,606
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
Texas State Technical College
Waco, TX
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Texas State Technical College is a public postsecondary school based in Waco, Texas. The postsecondary institution features 70 on-campus associate programs and four online associate programs. Distance learners can earn their online associate degree in dental hygiene in roughly two years. The school provides advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff to help distance learners. Associate degree-seekers complete hands-on components in their field.
Graduates can also transfer their associate degree into a four-year program. After earning an associate degree, graduates can apply for entry-level positions. The school charges associate degree-seekers affordable per-credit tuition rates. Financial aid can help associate degree-seekers minimize student debt. Applicants submit high school transcripts or GED scores.
Texas State Technical College holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$5,877
- Out-of-state$10,191
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled10,720
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Lewis and Clark Community College
Godfrey, IL
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution in Godfrey, Illinois, Lewis and Clark Community College offers on-campus and online degrees. The school offers seven online associate programs, including an associate of applied science in dental hygiene degree.
Applicants with a high school diploma or GED certificate can join the online program. Incoming students may need to take a placement test to determine their class selections.
The flexible learning format makes it easier for students to earn a college degree. Learners benefit from the program's asynchronous course options, which let students complete coursework at any time of day.
After completing a dental hygienist associate degree, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program. The school's articulation agreements with four-year colleges offer a seamless pathway to earning a bachelor's degree as a transfer student.
Lewis and Clark Community College Numbers:
Online Enrollment: 995
Undergrad Graduation Rate: 42%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,000
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $12,000
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$12,000
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,413
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment16%
- AccreditationYes
Meridian Community College
Meridian, MS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Meridian Community College delivers associate degrees online and from its campus in Meridian, Mississippi. Prospective students can select from among 24 on-campus associate programs and four online associate programs.
Online learners in the online associate degree in dental hygiene program can earn their degree in roughly two years. Associate degree-seekers often complete internships to prepare for entry-level positions. Online and on-campus learners can access support services. Learners can take advantage of peer and professional tutoring.
After earning an associate degree, graduates can pursue entry-level roles. After earning an associate degree, graduates can also enroll in a four-year program. Students in associate programs at the institution pay affordable per-credit tuition rates. Learners pay $6,247 on average to attend the school, after accounting for financial aid.
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, a regional accrediting body.
- In-State$3,024
- Out-of-state$4,004
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled3,402
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment29%
- AccreditationYes
Southeastern Technical College
Vidalia, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution in Vidalia, Southeastern Technical College has one of the best online schools in the country. The school's associate programs make learning more accessible to students with personal or professional responsibilities.
Prospective students can find program details and graduation requirements on the institution's website. Southern Technical College provides advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff to help distance learners. While earning an associate degree, learners gain practical experience in their major to prepare for entry-level positions.
Graduates of associate programs often pursue entry-level positions immediately after earning their degree. Graduates can also transfer their associate degree into a bachelor's program.
After factoring in financial aid, students pay $3,242 on average to attend the school.
Southeastern Technical College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,972
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Wytheville Community College
Wytheville, VA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
From its Wytheville, Virginia campus, Wytheville Community College grants certificates and degrees as a public institution. Most associate degrees only require applicants to hold a high school diploma or GED certificate. The school administers placement tests to create customized graduation plans for incoming students. Many schools also accept SAT or ACT scores.
The flexible schedule helps busy students balance school with work or other responsibilities. The school offers asynchronous classes that let learners complete coursework at any time of day.
An associate degree in dental hygiene prepares learners for the workforce or a four-year degree. The school's articulation agreements with four-year colleges offer a seamless pathway to earning a bachelor's degree as a transfer student.
Wytheville Community College Numbers:
Online Enrollment: 1,490
Rate of Undergraduate Graduation: 49%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,620
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,918
- In-State$4,620
- Out-of-state$9,918
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate54%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,450
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment61%
- AccreditationYes
Lake Land College
Mattoon, IL
- 2 year
- Campus
From its campus in Mattoon, Illinois, Lake Land College offers an affordable path to a college degree. The postsecondary institution provides 45 on-campus associate programs. Online students can finish the associate degree in dental hygiene program and earn their degree in two years or less. While earning an associate degree, learners complete hands-on components in their field. The school offers student support services, and degree-seekers can pursue peer tutoring to improve their academic performance.
Graduates can also transfer their associate degree into a bachelor's program. An associate degree qualifies holders to enter the workforce in many capacities. Learners pay low per-credit tuition rates while earning their associate degree from the institution. Financial aid can help students afford associate programs. In most cases, students need a high school diploma or passing GED scores for admission.
Lake Land College holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
- In-State$6,989
- Out-of-state$12,791
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,466
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
CUNY Hostos Community College
Bronx, NY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
CUNY Hostos Community College is a public college located in New York. The program accepts applicants with a high school diploma or the equivalent and may require placement tests for some incoming students. The school's admission advisors help prospective students enroll in the dental hygienist program.
The dental hygienist program offers a flexible, online format that allows students to stay on schedule to earn their degree. Students requiring the most flexibility can enroll in asynchronous courses with no set meeting times.
After completing the associate degree program, graduates pursue dental hygienist careers or transfer into bachelor's programs. The school's articulation agreements with four-year colleges mean that graduates can transfer more of their credits toward a bachelor's degree.
CUNY Hostos Community College Fast Facts:
Online Enrollment: 845
Student Graduation Percentage: 23%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,800
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,680
- In-State$4,800
- Out-of-state$7,680
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled7,120
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
Pearl River Community College
Poplarville, MS
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
From its Poplarville, Mississippi campus, Pearl River Community College enrolls learners as a public institution. Students seeking an online degree can enroll in the associate degree in dental hygiene, one of three online associate programs at the school.
The program accepts applicants with a high school diploma or the equivalent. Incoming students submit transcripts to determine their transfer credits and class standing. Contact the program for more information on start dates and admission requirements.
The dental hygienist program uses a flexible format that appeals to degree-seekers with a busy schedule. Students requiring the most flexibility can enroll in asynchronous courses with no set meeting times.
With an associate degree in dental hygiene, students enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program. Most schools maintain articulation agreements with four-year colleges, enabling graduates to transfer their credits seamlessly into a bachelor’s program.
Pearl River Community College At a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,433
Percent of Students who Earn a Bachelor's Degree: 34%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $3,250
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,648
- In-State$3,250
- Out-of-state$5,648
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,157
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
State Fair Community College
Sedalia, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Sedalia, Missouri, State Fair Community College operates as a public institution. Degree-seekers can enroll in the associate of applied science in dental hygiene, one of 16 online associate programs at the school.
The program's admission requirements include a high school diploma or the equivalent, such as a GED certificate. The school uses placement tests to create an individualized graduation plan for admitted students, and admission advisors help prospective students complete the enrollment process.
The dental hygienist program offers coursework on a flexible, online schedule. The school offers asynchronous classes that let learners complete coursework at any time of day.
With an associate degree, graduates can transfer into a four-year college to earn a bachelor's degree. The school's articulation agreements with local four-year colleges help graduates transfer seamlessly into a bachelor's program.
State Fair Community College Facts:
Online Enrollment: 2,726
Percent of Undergrads who Graduate: 32%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,080
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $5,520
- In-State$4,080
- Out-of-state$5,520
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate60%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,288
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment64%
- AccreditationYes
Roane State Community College
Harriman, TN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Roane State Community College, a public institution in Harriman, Tennessee, offers on-campus and online degrees. As one of its four online associate programs, degree-seekers can enroll in the associate of applied science in dental hygiene. Prospective students with a high school diploma or GED certificate can enroll in the online dental hygienist program. Candidates may need to take a placement test, such as ACCUPLACER, to determine their class selections. The school's admission advisors help incoming students enroll in the dental hygienist program.
The distance learning format appeals to students who require a flexible schedule. Learners benefit from the program's asynchronous course options, which let students complete coursework at any time of day.
After earning an associate degree in dental hygienist, graduates can transfer into a bachelor's program. The school maintains articulation agreements with four-year colleges, which means that graduates can transfer more credits toward a bachelor's degree.
Roane State Community College Numbers:
Online Enrollment: 2,618
Student Graduation Percentage: 34%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,342
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $17,448
- In-State$4,342
- Out-of-state$17,448
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate56%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled5,861
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
Gulf Coast State College
Panama City, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Gulf Coast State College, a public institution, welcomes degree-seekers to its Panama City, Florida campus. The school's five online associate programs include an associate degree in dental hygiene program. Students can gain admission to the two-year program with a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Admitted students may need to take placement tests, such as the ACCUPLACER to determine their graduation requirements. Applicants meet with admission advisors to learn more about the enrollment process.
The online dental hygienist program uses a flexible format that appeals to working students and busy adults. The program offers asynchronous courses that let learners complete assignments on their own schedule.
After completing the associate program, graduates pursue dental hygienist careers or transfer into bachelor's programs. Most schools maintain articulation agreements with four-year colleges, enabling graduates to transfer their credits seamlessly into a bachelor’s program.
Gulf Coast State College Numbers:
Online Enrollment: 2,221
Student Graduation Rate: 41%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,750
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,064
- In-State$1,750
- Out-of-state$7,064
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,797
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Mississippi Delta Community College
Moorhead, MS
- 2 year
- Campus
Located in Moorhead, Mississippi Delta Community College delivers distance learning programs for associate degree-seekers. In two years, students can earn their degree in the online associate degree in dental hygiene program.
While earning their degree, learners complete hands-on components in their field. Students can access support services online and in person. Degree-seekers can pursue peer tutoring to improve their academic performance.
Many associate degree-holders immediately pursue entry-level roles. Some associate degree-holders pursue bachelor's studies to qualify for high-level positions in their field. Students earning an associate degree pay affordable per-credit tuition rates. Students often apply for grants and scholarships to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Applicants should have graduated high school or earned a GED certificate.
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, a regional accrediting body.
- In-State$3,060
- Out-of-state$5,260
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,516
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
Central Georgia Technical College
Warner Robins, GA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
A public institution, Central Georgia Technical College offers degrees from its main campus in Warner Robins, Georgia. The school offers 14 online associate programs in many professional and academic fields. The two-year program accepts applicants with a high school diploma or the equivalent. The school uses placement tests to create an individualized graduation plan for admitted students. Learners can also choose to submit their SAT or ACT scores.
The online learning format puts more control in the hands of busy students seeking a dental hygienist degree. The program's asynchronous classes let learners complete coursework at any time, from any place.
With an associate degree in dental hygiene, students enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor's program. Students interested in a bachelor's degree benefit from the school's articulation agreements with four-year colleges.
Central Georgia Technical College Facts:
Online Enrollment: 4,195
Rate of Graduation: 35%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,400
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $4,800
- In-State$2,400
- Out-of-state$4,800
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate59%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled8,244
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Monroe Community College
Rochester, NY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
Monroe Community College, a public institution, welcomes degree-seekers to its Rochester, New York campus. The school offers seven online associate programs, including an online dental hygienist degree.
The two-year program accepts applicants with a high school diploma or the equivalent. Incoming students submit transcripts to determine their transfer credits and class standing. The school's admission advisors help prospective students complete the enrollment process.
The online learning format allows students to balance school with work or other responsibilities. Learners can arrange coursework around their schedule rather than attending in-person classes at a set time.
After completing the associate program, graduates pursue dental hygienist careers or transfer into bachelor's programs. Students interested in a bachelor's degree benefit from the school's articulation agreements with four-year colleges.
Monroe Community College Facts:
Online Enrollment: 3,738
Graduation Rate: 25%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,380
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,760
- In-State$4,380
- Out-of-state$8,760
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled11,572
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
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