Key Takeaways
- Aurora, Colorado offers access to CODA-accredited dental hygiene programs through nearby community colleges and private institutions.
- Most programs require 2 years to complete and award an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.
- Tuition ranges from approximately $8,000 to $45,000 depending on residency status and school type.
- Colorado dental hygienists earn an average salary of $89,000 to $105,000 per year depending on experience and location.
- Graduating from a CODA-accredited program and passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination are required for Colorado licensure.
Why Choose a Dental Hygiene Program Near Aurora, Colorado?
Aurora is part of the Denver metro area, one of Colorado’s fastest-growing healthcare markets. With expanding dental practices, specialty clinics, and public health organizations, the demand for licensed dental hygienists remains strong.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygiene is projected to grow steadily through 2032. In Colorado, wages consistently exceed the national average, making Aurora an attractive location for students seeking strong return on investment.
Choosing a program near Aurora allows access to clinical rotations in high-volume practices while benefiting from Colorado’s competitive healthcare job market.
Accreditation Matters: What to Look For
Before reviewing specific programs, confirm accreditation. In Colorado, you must graduate from a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) to qualify for licensure.
Licensure Requirements in Colorado
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program
- Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
- Pass a regional or state clinical examination
- Apply for licensure through the Colorado Dental Board
Programs that align curriculum closely with these exam requirements often report higher board pass rates, an important quality indicator.
Best Dental Hygiene Programs Near Aurora, Colorado
School Degree Duration Approx. Tuition Accreditation Community College of Denver (CCD) AAS in Dental Hygiene 2 Years $8,000–$18,000 (in-state) CODA Accredited Concorde Career College Aurora AAS in Dental Hygiene Approx. 20 Months $40,000+ CODA Accredited Pima Medical Institute Denver AAS in Dental Hygiene Approximately 21 Months $45,000+ CODA Accredited
1. Community College of Denver (CCD)
Best for affordability and strong public reputation.
Located within commuting distance of Aurora, CCD offers one of the most cost-effective and competitive dental hygiene programs in the region. The Associate of Applied Science degree prepares students for direct entry into clinical practice.
Highlights:
- Affordable in-state tuition
- Comprehensive on-campus dental clinic experience
- Strong emphasis on preventive care and community health
- High board exam preparation focus
Admission is competitive and requires prerequisite coursework in anatomy, microbiology, and chemistry. Applicants are evaluated on GPA, entrance exams, and clinical readiness.
2. Concorde Career College – Aurora Campus
Best for accelerated, career-focused training.
Concorde offers a streamlined Associate degree program designed for students ready to enter the workforce quickly. The curriculum integrates classroom instruction, simulation labs, and patient care.
Key Features:
- Accelerated timeline
- Modern training facilities
- Emphasis on licensing exam readiness
- Structured clinical rotations
While tuition is significantly higher than community colleges, Concorde may appeal to students seeking smaller class sizes and structured scheduling.
3. Pima Medical Institute – Denver Area
Best for hands-on clinical emphasis.
Pima Medical Institute offers a CODA-accredited AAS program near Aurora. The program focuses heavily on real-world patient care, including periodontal therapy and radiography.
Program Strengths:
- Extensive clinical hours
- Career services support
- Licensure exam preparation
- Flexible student resources
Tuition is on the higher end, but students often cite strong clinical confidence upon graduation.
Admission Requirements and Prerequisites
Although each institution varies slightly, most programs require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of prerequisite science courses with a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0
- Dental observation hours
- Entrance exam such as HESI or TEAS
- Immunization records and background check
Pro tip: Apply early. Many Colorado dental hygiene programs admit only 20 to 30 students per cohort.
Tuition and Financial Aid Options
Costs vary widely depending on residency and institution type.
Estimated Total Program Costs
- Community colleges: $8,000 to $20,000
- Private career colleges: $40,000 to $50,000
Additional expenses include instruments, uniforms, textbooks, exam fees, and licensure costs.
Financial aid options include:
- FAFSA federal grants and loans
- Colorado Opportunity Fund stipends
- Health profession scholarships
- Work-study positions
Students planning long-term may prioritize lower tuition programs to maximize return on investment.
Clinical Training and Hands-On Experience
Clinical education is the backbone of dental hygiene training. Programs in the Aurora area typically include:
- On-campus dental clinics serving local patients
- Rotations in private dental offices
- Community outreach programs
- Exposure to pediatric, periodontal, and geriatric patients
When comparing schools, ask about total clinical hours and patient diversity. More exposure often leads to stronger employment readiness.
Career Outcomes for Dental Hygienists in Aurora, CO
Average Salary
Dental hygienists in Colorado earn between $89,000 and $105,000 annually, depending on experience and setting. Metropolitan areas like Aurora and Denver often pay above state averages.
Employment Settings
- Private dental practices
- Specialty clinics such as periodontics or orthodontics
- Public health agencies
- Mobile dental clinics
- Education and research institutions
Many graduates secure employment within months of licensure, especially when completing local clinical rotations.
How to Choose the Right Program
Use this checklist when evaluating options:
- Is the program CODA accredited?
- What is the board exam pass rate?
- How much total debt will you incur?
- How many clinical hours are included?
- What is the graduation and job placement rate?
Prospective students should attend information sessions, tour facilities, and speak with current students before making a decision. A strong support system, updated equipment, and transparent outcome data are indicators of program quality.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Hygiene Programs Near Aurora, Colorado
How long does it take to become a dental hygienist near Aurora, Colorado?
Most dental hygiene programs near Aurora take about 2 years to complete. Community colleges and private schools in the area usually offer an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Dental Hygiene that can be finished in 20–24 months of full-time study.
What are the basic admission requirements for these dental hygiene programs?
You typically need a high school diploma or GED, prerequisite science courses with at least a 2.5–3.0 GPA, an entrance exam such as HESI or TEAS, proof of immunizations, and a background check. Many programs also ask for dental observation or shadowing hours.
How much does a dental hygiene program near Aurora cost?
Community college programs usually cost about $8,000 to $20,000 for in-state students. Private career colleges in the Aurora and Denver area often range from $40,000 to $50,000. You should also budget for instruments, uniforms, textbooks, and exam and licensure fees.
Do I need a CODA-accredited program to get licensed in Colorado?
Yes. To become licensed in Colorado, you must graduate from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) approved dental hygiene program, pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, pass a clinical exam, and then apply to the Colorado Dental Board.
What salary can you expect as a dental hygienist in Aurora, Colorado?
Dental hygienists in Colorado generally earn about $89,000 to $105,000 per year, depending on your experience, work hours, and setting. In metro areas such as Aurora and Denver, pay often runs higher than the state average, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
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