Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

ASO Staff Writers
By
Updated on August 29, 2023

Dental Hygiene Programs Overview

If a career with a competitive salary and faster-than-average job growth sounds appealing, check out the field of dental hygiene. Dental hygienists can enter the workforce with as little as a certificate or associate degree, and may choose to work their way up to a master’s or doctoral degree in dentistry. In addition to cleaning teeth and examining patients for signs of oral disease, dental hygienists also educate patients to improve and maintain their oral health.

In this guide, learn more about the path to becoming a dental hygienist and get tips on which features to look for in a dental hygiene program below. This page includes a breakdown of the different types of hygiene schools and courses, and includes a list of the best dental hygiene programs in the country.

Best Dental Hygiene Programs

With new dental hygiene programs popping up all over the nation, it can be hard for students to know which schools offer the best options. Take a look at the list below, which ranks the best schools in the nation based on a variety of factors, and describes some of the top choices to give prospective students a look at top programs at-a-glance.

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

Idaho State University

  • Location-markerPocatello, ID
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Located in Pocatello, Idaho State University provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their studies.

Dental hygienist students complete coursework as part of the program curriculum. Participants take foundational classes, as well as advanced coursework, with the option to modify their schedule and choose electives.

Learners can customize their study in consultation with an academic advisor, to suit personal and professional goals. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.

When preparing for the costs of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. To date, 92% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,928
  • Out-of-state$22,224
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,982
  • Out-of-state$24,278
  • Retention Rate64%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled12,402
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment52%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

Lake Washington Institute of Technology

  • Location-markerKirkland, WA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Located in Kirkland, Washington, Lake Washington Institute of Technology provides flexible educational opportunities for learners worldwide. A leader in hybrid education, the public college supports both in-person and online learning, including six bachelor's degree programs.

Students in the dental hygienist program build competency through rigorous coursework and industry-relevant lectures. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study and gain practical knowledge.

Students have the option to modify their coursework, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Learners can receive personalized guidance by connecting with career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources.

To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. The average student receives approximately $6,267 in financial aid, with 45% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$2,875
  • Out-of-state$7,812
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled3,620
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment21%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of Maine at Augusta

  • Location-markerAugusta, ME
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Maine at Augusta is a public college offering premier bachelor's-level education to students worldwide. The public institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.

Dental hygienist students follow a rigorous program curriculum. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study and gain practical knowledge.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. Students seeking further academic and career guidance can access numerous institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising.

Enrollees can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. The average enrollee receives $6,763 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,170
  • Out-of-state$17,340
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention Rate61%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled4,361
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment76%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

College of Southern Nevada

  • Location-markerLas Vegas, NV
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from the College of Southern Nevada. Students across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.

Enrollees gain skills and knowledge suitable for their field of choosing through lectures, coursework, and other learning opportunities. Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration, and can also choose elective classes. While enrolled, participants benefit from career and academic counselors, receiving personal and academic guidance throughout their studies.

Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The college notes that 84% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,083
  • Out-of-state$10,273
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled33,942
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment46%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of Southern Indiana

  • Location-markerEvansville, IN
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Southern Indiana supports a variety of undergraduate-level degree options. Undergraduate students benefit from hybrid learning opportunities, with the option to study in-person or online. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.

Dental hygienist students complete coursework as part of the program curriculum. Learners can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities.

Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their studies, select electives, and pursue additional coursework that suits their career goals.

When preparing for the costs of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. To date, 92% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,986
  • Out-of-state$19,296
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,486
  • Out-of-state$18,528
  • Retention Rate67%
  • Acceptance Rate93%
  • Students Enrolled10,705
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment54%
  • AccreditationYes
#6 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

West Liberty University

  • Location-markerWest Liberty, WV
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Looking for a premier education to jumpstart your career? Consider one of the 27 bachelor’s degrees from West Liberty University. Undergraduate students benefit from skilled faculty, rigorous coursework, and a supportive learning environment.

Students benefit from foundational and advanced coursework, as well as industry-specific lectures. Learners can also customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors and degree concentrations. While enrolled, students can access institutional resources, including career services and academic advising.

Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. At the college, 96% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,990
  • Out-of-state$15,930
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,300
  • Out-of-state$8,112
  • Retention Rate71%
  • Acceptance Rate71%
  • Students Enrolled2,496
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment40%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of Bridgeport

  • Location-markerBridgeport, CT
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

University of Bridgeport provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. The college supports 35 bachelor's programs, with four enabling fully remote study.

Students complete foundational and advanced coursework while enrolled and can pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can customize their studies by choosing electives and declaring minors and degree concentrations. Students benefit from institutional resources throughout their studies, including career services and academic advising.

Depending on eligibility, students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding towards their educational expenses. At the college, 99% of all enrollees are awarded financial aid packages.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$31,920
  • Out-of-state$31,920
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$18,612
  • Out-of-state$18,612
  • Retention Rate69%
  • Acceptance Rate55%
  • Students Enrolled5,089
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment36%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of Alaska Anchorage

  • Location-markerAnchorage, AK
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Undergraduate students seeking competitive study should consider one of University of Alaska Anchorage's 53 bachelor's programs, with two programs available fully online. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.

Students complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. Throughout their studies, students can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.

Applicants may be eligible for funding, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, to defray the costs of education. The average financial aid package earned by students amounts to $7,033.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,804
  • Out-of-state$26,152
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$11,286
  • Out-of-state$23,738
  • Retention Rate66%
  • Acceptance Rate83%
  • Students Enrolled12,766
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment57%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of Wyoming

  • Location-markerLaramie, WY
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Wyoming provides flexible study for students seeking bachelor's-level study. Learners can choose from a variety of degree programs, either in-person or online. Regardless of location, students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

Remote and campus-based students connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning environment. The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Learners can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities.

In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies.

Depending on eligibility, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. At the college, 93% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$3,336
  • Out-of-state$13,392
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$4,878
  • Out-of-state$14,598
  • Retention Rate76%
  • Acceptance Rate96%
  • Students Enrolled12,249
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment41%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

Missouri Southern State University

  • Location-markerJoplin, MO
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Missouri Southern State University provides flexible study for students seeking bachelor's-level study. The public institution offers hybrid degree programs at the undergraduate level. To date, the school offers 34 bachelor’s programs, with four online degree options.

Students near and far benefit from a supportive learning community. Throughout their studies, students in the program complete coursework as part of the program curriculum. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.

Students can declare minors, degree concentrations, and further customize their studies in consultation with an academic advisor. Students can access institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, throughout their studies.

The financial aid office can connect students with funding opportunities, to make the costs of college manageable. The average student receives approximately $5,654 in financial aid, with 95% of all enrollees receiving some form of aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,289
  • Out-of-state$14,578
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,300
  • Out-of-state$6,300
  • Retention Rate65%
  • Acceptance Rate94%
  • Students Enrolled5,604
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment51%
  • AccreditationYes
#11 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

Weber State University

  • Location-markerOgden, UT
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Students looking to jumpstart their career should consider a bachelor's degree from Weber State University. Students can enroll in one of 131 campus-based bachelor's programs, or opt for remote study across eight subject areas. Students across modalities connect with peers and faculty through a supportive learning community.

Students can customize their study by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration, and can also choose elective classes. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their degree programs.

The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, from scholarships to federal financial aid. Of all enrollees, 91% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,990
  • Out-of-state$14,973
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,476
  • Out-of-state$16,656
  • Retention Rate66%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled29,644
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment35%
  • AccreditationYes
#12 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

Utah Valley University

  • Location-markerOrem, UT
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Utah Valley University supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. Students connect with supportive faculty, colleagues, and other staff through in-person and online learning environments.

Degree-seekers benefit from a robust education, completing coursework that familiarizes them with their field of interest. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. They can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the program.

To defray the costs of education, students can apply for scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities. To date, 74% of all enrolled students receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,122
  • Out-of-state$15,872
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,513
  • Out-of-state$25,391
  • Retention Rate65%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled41,728
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment32%
  • AccreditationYes
#13 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

St. Petersburg College

  • Location-markerClearwater, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

From its main campus in Clearwater, St. Petersburg College supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. The college supports 22 bachelor's programs, with 12 enabling fully remote study. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment and personalized interactions with faculty and staff.

While enrolled, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, gaining skills and knowledge relevant to their subject field. Degree-seekers can modify their classes, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout the duration of their degree programs.

Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities and explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. Of all enrollees, 73% receive financial aid awards.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$1,943
  • Out-of-state$7,774
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled28,853
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment59%
  • AccreditationYes
#14 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of New England

  • Location-markerBiddeford, ME
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of New England supports a variety of undergraduate-level degree options. The Biddeford-based school offers hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. The college campus and online learning environment enable students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff during their studies.

As part of the program curriculum, students complete coursework and attend industry-relevant lectures. These classes equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to advance in their future career.

Learners can customize their studies to suit their personal and professional goals. A leader in students success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.

Funding opportunities can help defray educational costs. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$37,390
  • Out-of-state$37,390
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$23,498
  • Out-of-state$23,498
  • Retention Rate81%
  • Acceptance Rate84%
  • Students Enrolled7,483
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment47%
  • AccreditationYes
#15 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of Detroit Mercy

  • Location-markerDetroit, MI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Detroit Mercy supports a variety of undergraduate-level degree options. Undergraduate students can choose from in-person and remote degree programs. According to the college, undergraduates can access 48 bachelor's degree programs on campus.

After enrolling, students complete foundational and advanced coursework, with the option to pursue internships and other experiential learning opportunities. Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree program. They can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout their education.

The college connects students with scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities to be applied to educational expenses. The institution reports that 100% of all degree-seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$28,840
  • Out-of-state$28,840
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$29,268
  • Out-of-state$29,268
  • Retention Rate82%
  • Acceptance Rate77%
  • Students Enrolled5,080
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment20%
  • AccreditationYes
#16 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

West Virginia University

  • Location-markerMorgantown, WV
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

West Virginia University provides flexible study for students seeking bachelor's-level study. The Morgantown-based school supports hybrid learning opportunities, with in-person and online programs. Regardless of location, students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff through a supportive learning community.

The college provides students with a competitive education through intensive study. Learners can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities.

In consultation with an academic advisor, students can modify their coursework, choose electives, and pursue degree concentrations and minors to suit their career goals. While enrolled, learners can connect with institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising, to receive further guidance.

Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. The institution reports that 94% of all degree seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$8,976
  • Out-of-state$25,320
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,134
  • Out-of-state$26,154
  • Retention Rate79%
  • Acceptance Rate84%
  • Students Enrolled26,839
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment34%
  • AccreditationYes
#17 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

Ferris State University

  • Location-markerBig Rapids, MI
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Looking for a premier education to jumpstart your career? Consider one of the 98 bachelor’s degrees from Ferris State University. Enrollees can choose from one of 98 bachelor's degree programs or opt for remote study across 10 degree programs. Enrollees gain access to a supportive learning environment during their studies.

Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future careers. In consultation with an academic advisor, students can customize their coursework, select electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations. Students can access institutional resources, such as career srevices and academic advising, throughout the course of their studies.

Based on their eligibility, students can receive scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid awards. The college reports an average financial aid award package of $9,769.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$12,376
  • Out-of-state$12,376
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,608
  • Out-of-state$7,608
  • Retention Rate76%
  • Acceptance Rate87%
  • Students Enrolled12,472
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment29%
  • AccreditationYes
#18 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of Arkansas-Fort Smith

  • Location-markerFort Smith, AR
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith provides flexible study for students seeking a bachelor's-level education. Learners can study from the comfort of their homes or on the college's Fort Smith-based campus. To date, the school offers 35 bachelor’s programs, with four online degree options.

Once enrolled, students connect with colleagues, faculty, and staff in a supportive learning community. Throughout their studies, students in the dental hygienist program complete coursework as part of the program curriculum. Learners engage foundational and advanced concepts throughout interactive study and gain practical knowledge.

Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree program. A leader in student success, the college connects enrollees with career services, academic advising, and other supportive resources.

Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to explore funding opportunties. The average enrollee receives $6,280 in financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,104
  • Out-of-state$11,376
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,092
  • Out-of-state$11,394
  • Retention Rate65%
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students Enrolled6,265
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment55%
  • AccreditationYes
#19 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of South Dakota

  • Location-markerVermillion, SD
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

From its main campus in Vermillion, the University of South Dakota supports numerous hybrid degree options for undergraduate students. Students can choose from 63 in-person bachelor's degree programs and six remote programs. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.

Degree-seekers gain skills and knowledge through classes, lectures, and experiential learning opportunities. Students have the option to modify their classes, choose electives, and customize their studies. While enrolled, students can access institutional resources, including career services and academic advising.

The college connects students with numerous funding opportunities, from scholarships to federal financial aid. The college notes that 94% of all enrollees receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$7,697
  • Out-of-state$11,172
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,062
  • Out-of-state$11,656
  • Retention Rate78%
  • Acceptance Rate86%
  • Students Enrolled9,920
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment50%
  • AccreditationYes
#20 Dental Hygiene Schools and Programs

University of New Haven

  • Location-markerWest Haven, CT
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online

Students seeking a flexible bachelor's degree program should consider the University of New Haven. Learners can choose from in-person or online bachelor's degree programs, allowing them to connect with peers, faculty, and staff, either through campus learning environments, or virtual classrooms.

Enrollees take foundational and advanced classes, learning the ins and outs of their field. Depending on their career goals, students can declare a double major, minor, or degree concentration, and select elective courses. Enrollees can receive further guidance through academic advising, career services, and other resources.

Depending on eligibility, students can apply scholarships, fellowships, and other funding towards their educational expenses. The institution reports that 99% of all degree seekers receive some form of financial aid.

Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$39,000
  • Out-of-state$39,000
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$16,920
  • Out-of-state$16,920
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate83%
  • Students Enrolled6,793
  • Institution TypePrivate
  • Percent Online Enrollment28%
  • AccreditationYes
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Dental Hygiene Learning Center

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