Explore the Best Accredited Dental Hygiene Programs in the U.S.
If you're passionate about promoting healthy smiles, a career in dental hygiene might be the perfect path. As a licensed dental hygienist, you'll work with patients to prevent oral diseases and maintain good dental habits. But first, you need a quality education. Choosing the right dental hygiene school is the first step toward a fulfilling healthcare career.
To help you get started, we've compiled a list of top U.S. dental hygiene programs based on academic reputation, clinical training, and graduate success. These schools offer accredited dental hygiene degrees that prepare you for national licensing exams and real-world practice.
What to Look for in a Top Dental Hygiene Program
Not all dental hygiene schools are created equal. You’ll want a program that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and provides strong clinical experiences and job placement support.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- CODA-accredited programs
- Hands-on clinical training with modern facilities
- High National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) pass rates
- Experienced faculty with modern dental practices
- Support for career development and job placement
- Opportunities for further specialization or bachelor’s degree completion
Top U.S. Dental Hygiene Schools With Strong Career Outcomes
These dental hygiene schools consistently rank among the top for academic quality, clinical instruction, and successful graduate outcomes in the oral health care field.
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, MI
The University of Michigan School of Dentistry offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. This program combines evidence-based instruction with hands-on training. Students gain experience through on-campus clinics and community outreach.
- Offers bachelor's and entry-level hygiene programs
- Dedicated clinical faculty focused on patient-centered care
- Graduates have high board exam pass rates
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The Adams School of Dentistry at UNC Chapel Hill provides one of the oldest and most prestigious dental hygiene programs in the U.S. Students benefit from advanced technology, faculty mentoring, and research opportunities.
- Offers both BS and MS in Dental Hygiene
- Includes clinical rotations across healthcare settings
- Focus on public health and access to care
Texas A&M University School of Dentistry – Dallas, TX
The Dental Hygiene program at Texas A&M offers a Bachelor of Science degree. The program emphasizes preventive oral health and prepares students for leadership roles in education and clinical settings.
- High student satisfaction and excellent faculty support
- Access to diverse patient populations
- Strong connections with local dental professionals for job placements
Ohio State University – Columbus, OH
Ohio State’s College of Dentistry provides a comprehensive dental hygiene curriculum with both associate and bachelor’s degree options. Their rigorous academics and strong clinical instruction prepare students well for licensing exams.
- Includes community-based clinical experiences
- Outstanding facilities with modern dental equipment
- Pathway to advanced degrees in dental education or public health
University of Southern California – Los Angeles, CA
The Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene designed for students who want to work in private practice or specialize in public health.
- Located in a global healthcare hub
- Offers interprofessional training with other healthcare students
- Multiple externship opportunities in diverse healthcare settings
Fast-Growing Dental Hygiene Programs with Career Opportunities
If you’re looking for programs with strong growth or online flexibility, consider these good options:
- University of New Mexico – Native American outreach and public health emphasis
- Oregon Institute of Technology – Bachelor of Science with rural clinical rotations
- Penn College of Technology – Strong hands-on learning and workforce connections
- Utah Valley University – Prepares students for entry-level clinical practice in just 2–3 years
Benefits of Pursuing a Dental Hygiene Degree
A dental hygienist’s role is both rewarding and in-demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for dental hygienists was $81,400 in 2023. Job outlook is expected to grow faster than average as more people invest in oral health.
Benefits of a dental hygiene career include:
- Flexible work schedules and part-time roles
- Opportunities to work in private practices, schools, and public health clinics
- High patient interaction and community impact
- Job security and geographic mobility
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Hygiene Schools
What degree do you need to become a dental hygienist?
In most states, you need an associate or bachelor's degree in dental hygiene from a CODA-accredited program. To practice, you must also pass written and clinical licensing exams.
How long does it take to become a dental hygienist?
Most dental hygiene programs take about two to four years to complete, depending on the degree level. Associate degrees typically take two years, while bachelor's programs take around four.
What is the average salary of a dental hygienist?
As of 2023, the median salary for dental hygienists in the U.S. is $81,400 per year. Salaries can be higher based on location, experience, and education level.
Are there online dental hygiene programs?
Some schools offer online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene programs, especially for licensed hygienists seeking degree completion. Basic clinical training must be done in person at an accredited facility.
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Starting your journey in dental hygiene now gives you the opportunity to build a rewarding career in health care. With the right education and dedication, you're on the path to making a real impact in people's lives—one smile at a time.
