Key Takeaways
- Eagan does not have a standalone dental hygiene school, but several top accredited programs are within a 15 to 45 minute commute.
- All recommended programs are accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), which is required for licensure in Minnesota.
- Most students pursue an Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene, which qualifies them to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.
- Median dental hygienist salary in Minnesota exceeds $93,000 annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Clinical hours, board exam pass rates, tuition costs, and schedule flexibility should guide your decision.
Why Eagan Is a Strong Place to Start a Dental Hygiene Career
Eagan, Minnesota sits in Dakota County, just south of the Twin Cities. With convenient access to Minneapolis, St. Paul, and major healthcare employers, it offers excellent commuting access to some of the state’s top dental hygiene programs.
Minnesota consistently ranks among the highest paying states for dental hygienists. According to the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, demand for licensed dental professionals continues to grow due to preventive care awareness and an aging population. For Eagan residents, this translates to strong job placement potential at private practices, community clinics, public health agencies, and specialty offices across Dakota County.
Top Dental Hygiene Programs Near Eagan, Minnesota
Below is a curated list of the best CODA-accredited dental hygiene programs accessible from Eagan. Each stands out for accreditation, clinical training quality, graduate outcomes, and regional reputation.
1. Metropolitan State University – St. Paul
Commute from Eagan: Approximately 20 minutes
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
Accreditation: CODA
Metropolitan State University offers one of the most advanced dental hygiene pathways near Eagan. Unlike many entry-level associate programs, Metro State provides a bachelor’s degree completion option for licensed hygienists seeking career advancement in public health, research, or education.
Highlights:
- Strong focus on community-based clinical education
- Preparation for leadership and public health roles
- Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Learn more at metrostate.edu.
2. Normandale Community College – Bloomington
Commute from Eagan: 25 to 30 minutes
Degree Offered: Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene
Accreditation: CODA
Normandale is one of the most competitive and respected associate dental hygiene programs in the Twin Cities area. It provides rigorous clinical preparation and strong board exam outcomes.
Program strengths:
- Extensive hands-on clinical hours
- Modern simulation labs
- High first-time board exam pass rates
- Seamless transfer pathways into bachelor’s completion programs
Details available at normandale.edu.
3. Century College – White Bear Lake
Commute from Eagan: 35 to 40 minutes
Degree Offered: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Dental Hygiene
Accreditation: CODA
Century College is well known statewide for its healthcare programs. Its dental hygiene curriculum integrates classroom science instruction with robust patient care experiences in an on-campus dental clinic.
- Structured two-year professional sequence after prerequisites
- Comprehensive patient care experience
- Focus on evidence-based dental practice
Visit century.edu for admissions information.
4. Herzing University – Minneapolis
Commute from Eagan: 20 to 25 minutes
Degree Offered: Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene
Accreditation: CODA
Herzing University offers a private institution option with structured scheduling and smaller class sizes. Students benefit from modern dental labs and intensive clinical training.
- Year-round learning format
- Career-focused curriculum
- Financial aid support services
Program details: herzing.edu.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Programs
School Degree Type Approx. Duration Commute from Eagan Best For Metropolitan State Bachelor’s 2 years (completion) 20 mins Career advancement Normandale CC Associate 2 years 30 mins Strong clinical focus Century College AAS 2 years 40 mins Comprehensive patient care Herzing University Associate 2 to 3 years 25 mins Private structured learning
Admission Requirements for Eagan Area Programs
While each college has unique criteria, most Minnesota dental hygiene programs require:
- Completion of prerequisite science courses such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry
- Minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0
- TEAS or other placement testing
- CPR certification prior to clinical placement
- Background check and immunization documentation
Admission is competitive. Many programs accept 20 to 30 students annually. Completing prerequisites with strong grades significantly improves acceptance chances.
Clinical Training and Local Externship Opportunities
Hands-on experience is the backbone of dental hygiene education. Students in the Eagan area complete hundreds of supervised clinical hours, treating patients under licensed dentist supervision.
Nearby clinical and employment settings include:
- Private dental practices in Eagan and Apple Valley
- Community clinics in Dakota County
- Public health initiatives coordinated through Dakota County Health Department
Many students receive job offers from clinics where they complete clinical rotations.
Licensing Requirements in Minnesota
To practice as a dental hygienist in Minnesota, graduates must:
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited program
- Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination
- Pass a clinical board examination
- Apply through the Minnesota Board of Dentistry
All programs listed above are designed to prepare students for these examinations.
Tuition and Financial Aid Considerations
Tuition varies significantly:
- Community colleges: Generally lower in-state tuition rates
- Public universities: Moderately higher, especially for bachelor’s degrees
- Private institutions: Highest tuition but potentially faster pacing
Students should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Minnesota residents may also qualify for state grants.
How to Choose the Right Program
When evaluating dental hygiene programs near Eagan, prioritize:
1. Accreditation
Always confirm CODA accreditation.
2. Board Exam Pass Rates
High first-time pass rates often reflect strong academic preparation.
3. Clinical Hours
More patient contact typically increases job readiness.
4. Schedule Flexibility
If you are balancing work or family, consider structured or hybrid-compatible formats.
5. Career Goals
Choose an associate degree for faster workforce entry or a bachelor’s for long-term advancement.
Career Outlook for Dental Hygienists in Eagan
Dental hygienists in Minnesota earn a median annual wage above $93,000, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Twin Cities metropolitan area offers abundant employment options in general dentistry, pediatric care, periodontics, and orthodontics.
Growth is driven by preventive healthcare awareness, expanded access initiatives, and increasing demand for cosmetic procedures. For Eagan residents, proximity to multiple healthcare systems and dense suburban populations supports consistent hiring demand.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Hygiene Programs near Eagan
Does Eagan have its own dental hygiene school?
No. Eagan does not have a standalone dental hygiene program. You can commute 15 to 45 minutes to nearby CODA-accredited programs such as Normandale Community College, Metropolitan State University, Century College, and Herzing University in the Twin Cities area.
What type of degree do I need to become a dental hygienist in Minnesota?
Most students earn an Associate of Science or Associate in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program, which lets you sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. Some students later complete a bachelor’s degree, like the program at Metropolitan State University, for roles in public health, research, or education.
How much do dental hygienists earn in Minnesota?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, dental hygienists in Minnesota have a median annual wage above $93,000. The Twin Cities region, including Eagan, offers many jobs in general and specialty practices, supported by steady demand for preventive care.
What are the basic admission requirements for nearby dental hygiene programs?
Most programs near Eagan expect you to complete prerequisite science courses (such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry), meet a minimum GPA around 2.5–3.0, take a placement test like the TEAS, and provide a background check, immunization records, and current CPR certification. Class sizes are limited, so strong grades in your prerequisites help your chances.
How do I get licensed as a dental hygienist in Minnesota?
You must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program, pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination, pass an approved clinical board exam, and apply for licensure through the Minnesota Board of Dentistry. The programs near Eagan are designed to prepare you for these exams and requirements.
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