Dental hygienists are licensed oral health professionals who focus on preventing and treating oral diseases in order to preserve healthy teeth and gums as they relate to the patient’s overall health.
We will guide you through the practical skills and proficient hands-on training that transfer directly into the workplace. The AAS degree in dental hygiene can jumpstart your dental healthcare career.
Our Dental Hygiene facility is part of the Robert M. Rogers Nursing & Health Sciences Center, which opened in 2015. Our state-of-the-art facilities, highly-trained faculty, small class sizes and community health offerings go above and beyond the best learning experience.
Credential: Associate of Applied Science Academic Division: Public Safety, Allied Health and Human Services Aspiring dental hygienists serving patients. Virginia Peninsula’s Dental Hygiene program gives students the experience they
need to serve area patients as they learn. Students enrolled in the associate degree program benefit from small class sizes and hands-on experience in Virginia Peninsula’s state-of-the-art facility at the Historic Triangle campus in Williamsburg. The facility isn’t just for students. Under the supervision of expert faculty, students provide affordable dental services for members of the community. Services include routine examination of teeth and soft tissue, scaling and polishing,
diagnostic radiographs, oral cancer screening and sealants. I have had a great experience with Virginia Peninsula’s Dental Hygiene program. I have been able to learn the skills and knowledge needed to fulfill my dream of becoming a Registered Dental Hygienist. Choosing to enroll in Virginia Peninsula’s Dental Hygiene program has allowed me to gain a high-quality education while being financially smart.
Possibilities
Virginia Peninsula’s Dental Hygiene program prepares students for the National Board and Southern Regional Board Examinations. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment of dental hygienists is expected to grow 36 percent through 2018 with favorable job prospects in most areas. The demand for dental services will steadily increase because of population growth, the trend for senior citizens to retain more teeth and a growing emphasis on preventative dental care.
Admission to the Dental Hygiene Program
Learn more about the steps to be admitted to the Virginia Peninsula Dental Hygiene Program including pre-requisites and additional requirements.
Scholarship Opportunities
Related Students
Some of my best experiences are the instructors’ willingness to assist throughout my educational endeavors.
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 doctorate 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. 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.
#1
Idaho State University
| Location | Pocatello, Idaho |
| Graduation Rate | 36% |
| Accreditation | Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 52% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#2
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
| Location | Kirkland, Washington |
| Graduation Rate | 28% |
| Accreditation | Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#3
University of Maine at Augusta
| Location | Augusta, Maine |
| Graduation Rate | 13% |
| Accreditation | Yes New England Commission on Higher Education |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#4
College of Southern Nevada
| Location | Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Graduation Rate | 12% |
| Accreditation | Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#5
University of Southern Indiana
| Location | Evansville, Indiana |
| Admission Rate | 93% |
| Graduation Rate | 50% |
| Accreditation | Yes Higher Learning Commission |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#6
West Liberty University
| Location | West Liberty, West Virginia |
| Admission Rate | 71% |
| Graduation Rate | 45% |
| Accreditation | Yes Higher Learning Commission |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 40% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#7
University of Bridgeport
| Location | Bridgeport, Connecticut |
| Admission Rate | 55% |
| Graduation Rate | 45% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes New England Commission on Higher Education |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#8
University of Alaska Anchorage
| Location | Anchorage, Alaska |
| Admission Rate | 83% |
| Graduation Rate | 29% |
| Accreditation | Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 57% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#9
University of Wyoming
| Location | Laramie, Wyoming |
| Admission Rate | 96% |
| Graduation Rate | 60% |
| Accreditation | Yes Higher Learning Commission |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#10
Missouri Southern State University
| Location | Joplin, Missouri |
| Admission Rate | 94% |
| Graduation Rate | 32% |
| Accreditation | Yes Higher Learning Commission |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#11
Weber State University
| Location | Ogden, Utah |
| Graduation Rate | 34% |
| Accreditation | Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#12
Utah Valley University
| Location | Orem, Utah |
| Graduation Rate | 32% |
| Accreditation | Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 32% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#13
St. Petersburg College
| Location | Clearwater, Florida |
| Graduation Rate | 33% |
| Accreditation | Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#14
University of New England
| Location | Biddeford, Maine |
| Admission Rate | 84% |
| Graduation Rate | 68% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes New England Commission on Higher Education |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#15
University of Detroit Mercy
| Location | Detroit, Michigan |
| Admission Rate | 77% |
| Graduation Rate | 67% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes Higher Learning Commission |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 20% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#16
West Virginia University
| Location | Morgantown, West Virginia |
| Admission Rate | 84% |
| Graduation Rate | 61% |
| Accreditation | Yes Higher Learning Commission |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 34% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#17
Ferris State University
| Location | Big Rapids, Michigan |
| Admission Rate | 87% |
| Graduation Rate | 47% |
| Accreditation | Yes Higher Learning Commission |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#18
University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
| Location | Fort Smith, Arkansas |
| Graduation Rate | 35% |
| Accreditation | Yes Higher Learning Commission |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 55% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#19
University of South Dakota
| Location | Vermillion, South Dakota |
| Admission Rate | 86% |
| Graduation Rate | 59% |
| Accreditation | Yes Higher Learning Commission |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
#20
University of New Haven
| Location | West Haven, Connecticut |
| Admission Rate | 83% |
| Graduation Rate | 62% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation | Yes New England Commission on Higher Education |
| Percent Online Enrollment | 28% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online. |
Visit Site
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.
Visit Site
Dental Hygiene Learning Center
Dental Hygiene Financial Aid & Scholarships
Thinking about how to pay for dental hygiene school? This list of scholarship, financial aid and loan repayment opportunities pinpoints programs for dental hygiene students specifically
Resources for Dental Hygiene Students
From student wellness to networking, this collection of resources can help students stand out and get ahead while still in dental hygiene school.
Career Advancement in Dental Hygiene
Whether coming from another field or getting your first degree, learn how and what dental hygienists are doing to advance their careers.