Professionals everywhere are looking for the most affordable bachelor’s degrees in dental hygienist and dental assistant studies. This includes both pre-service and in-service dental hygienists. This is because more schools are providing access to the four-year program, enabling professionals to complete their education in this field, earn licensure and move into their career with ease. It’s becoming even easier with affordable and flexible options.
Most schools in this field offer students a variety of options, including:
- full four-year programs
- bridge programs
- completion programs
This is important for students who already have licensure and an associate’s degree from an accredited college or university. It gives them a chance to complete their bachelor’s degree by using the credits from their previous program. In addition, many programs offer online, part-time and evening programs. All professionals, regardless of their schedule, can complete their degree. This ranking features the most affordable options for professionals, giving them a good starting point when looking for a degree program.
Methodology
Finding the perfect program, one that has a high graduation rate with affordable tuition that offers small class sizes, can be difficult to find. This ranking has been created to reflect these concerns. By using data that was found through the National Center for Education Statistics and program websites, each school was ranked on these very aspects. Here’s a look at how the points system works for this list:
Annual Tuition
The annual tuition is calculated as the average of both in-state and out-of-state tuition.
Under $10,000: 3 points
$10,001 – $19,999: 2 points
$20,000 and above: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
For this ranking, the above factors and data determined the outcome of the list by assigning a point grade to every program. The original pool of 45 schools was found by searching for most affordable bachelor’s degrees in dental hygienist and dental assistant studies through the National Center for Education Statistics website and College Navigator database. The final 15 schools were chosen based on ranking all 45 schools based on the points system. The resulting list is below.
Ranking Most Affordable Bachelor’s Degrees in Dental Hygienist and Dental Assistant Studies
15. The University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Points: 5
Website
The University of New Mexico is home to one of the most affordable BS degrees in dental hygienist and dental assistant studies. Offered by the School of Medicine, it enables students to work alongside other professionals in health services. The department offers a BS in Dental Hygiene with options for students to continue their studies at the graduate and postgraduate level. Students have access to the school’s fully functioning public dental clinics. This enables them to combine their classroom education with practical experience. This inexpensive program requires students to complete:
- a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework
- a practicum or internship
- a set of qualifying exams
Sample courses include:
- Dental Anatomy
- Introduction to Dental Hygiene
- Special Care Dental Hygiene.
Average Annual Tuition: $14,520
In-State: $7,322
Out-of-State: $22,966
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio:16:1
14. The University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
Points: 5
Website
Students interested in a low-cost Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene will want to check out the offerings from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Students have access to small class sizes, professional-professors, and a fully functioning state-of-the-art laboratory to gain practical experience. This degree can be completed on-campus. There is also a degree program that is completed online with some residency requirements. The school is accredited by the American Dental Association and Commission on Dental Accreditation.It is approved by:
- the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry
- the American Dental Association
- the Commission on Dental Competency Assessment
This affordable BS program requires a minimum of:
- 120 credit hours of coursework
- an internship
- a set of qualifying exams.
Average Annual Tuition: $14,520
In-State: $8,470
Out-of-State: $20,570
Graduation Rate: 41 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 19:1
13. Weber State University
Ogden, Utah
Points: 5
Website
Weber State University is one of the most affordable bachelor’s degree programs in dental hygienist and dental assistant studies in the country. It’s offered by the school’s Dumke College of Health Professions. It’s the only program available in Utah that offers students the chance to complete a bachelor’s degree with the help of an associate’s degree. This program is accredited by the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation. Students will have access to smaller class sizes, a faculty that has experience in the field, and more. This low cost program requires:
- a total of 120 credit hours of coursework, half of which come from the associate’s degree
- a practicum
- a set of qualifying exams
Students are reminded that this school only offers a completion program. It is not possible to earn a full bachelor’s degree in the field here.
Average Annual Tuition: $13,669
In-State: $5,850
Out-of-State: $15,637
Graduation Rate: 33 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 21:1
12. Indiana University at South Bend
South Bend, Indiana
Points: 5
Website
Students seeking a low-cost bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene will be happy with the program at Indiana University at South Bend. It’s offered by the Vera Z. Dwyer College of Science. All programs are accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation. This affordable public school offers small class sizes and a dental hygiene clinic that operates during the academic year. Students are required to work in the clinic to graduate. Having the clinic on campus makes it easier for students to transition from the classroom into practical experience. Students are able to earn a full bachelor’s degree or complete their bachelor’s degree at this school. With part-time and evening options, this is a great fit for busy students. This degree requires a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework, clinical hours, and a set of qualifying exams. Sample courses include:
- Radiology
- Preventive Dentistry
- Head and Neck Anatomy.
Average Annual Tuition: $13,372
In-State: $7,344
Out-of-State: $19,400
Graduation Rate: 29 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 13:1
11. Clayton State University
Morrow, Georgia
Points: 5 points
Website
Clayton State University offers one of the most affordable BSDH degrees in dental hygienist and dental assistant studies in the country. Students at this school complete the program in the school’s College of Health. Unlike other affordable programs on this list, it is also possible to double major in health care management. This provides students with the chance to become managers and supervisors straight out of the program. This degree is offered in sequential format, enabling students to move from rudimentary to advanced courses in a fashion that makes sense for them. Please note that this school does not offer a completion program. This degree requires:
- a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework
- clinical hours,
- a set of qualifying exams
Sample courses include:
- Community Dental Health
- Dental Materials
- Clinical Pharmacology.
Average Annual Tuition: $12,948
In-State: $6,410
Out-of-State: $19,486
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 18:1
10. Wichita State University
Wichita, Kansas
Points: 5
Website
The affordable BSDH and Dental Assistant program available at Wichita State University is a great choice for students interested in a four-year undergraduate degree. Students have access to small class sizes, a fully functioning dental hygiene clinic on site, and a faculty that is committed to their success. This low cost program is also the only entry-level dental hygiene program available in Kansas, making it a great choice for professionals in the state. This program will lead to licensure in the state. Students will need to complete:
- a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework
- clinical hours
- a set of qualifying exams
More information on this degree can be found by contacting the department directly.
Average Annual Tuition: $12,862
In-State: $8,271
Out-of-State: $17,452
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 20:1
9. Youngstown State University
Youngstown, Ohio
Points: 5
Website
Youngstown State University offers one of the most affordable BSDH degrees and dental assistant studies in the country. The program has the option to obtain certifications in nitrous oxide, local anesthesia, and more. This program is in the Bitonte College of Health and Human Services, a college that prides itself on an intimate atmosphere filled with focused and dedicated faculty. The low cost program itself is fully accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation. Students are required to complete:
- a minimum of 124 credit hours of coursework
- clinical hours
- community service projects
- a set of qualifying exams
Sample courses include:
- Dental Hygiene
- Local Anesthesia and Pain Control for Dental Hygienists
- Microbiology for Health Care.
Average Annual Tuition: $12,079
In-State: $9,259
Out-of-State: $14,899
Graduation Rate: 34 percent:
Student: Faculty Ratio: 17:1
8. Utah Valley University
Orem, Utah
Points: 5
Website
The BSDH and Dental Assistant Studies at Utah Valley University was developed for students who are ready to complete their undergraduate education in this field. This degree program is only offered to students who have already earned an accredited associate’s degree in the field. This affordable program is unique. It is for working students. There is no clinical component and most classes are delivered online. Students will still have access to small class sizes, office hours and more that will be required to ensure that they complete the program. This low cost degree requires a total of 120 credit hours, half of which are from the associate’s degree, and a set of qualifying exams. Sample courses include:
- Microbiology for Health Professions
- Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office
- Oral Anatomy.
Average Annual Tuition: $11,011
In-State: $5,726
Out-of-State: $16,296
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 25:1
7. Dixie State University
St. George, Utah
Points: 5
Website
One of the best things about Dixie State University is has one of the most affordable BSDH degrees and dental assistant studies in the country. Students in this program are advised that they must complete an associate’s degree with the school before applying for this program. This is a completion degree and therefore is closed to pre-service professionals. The inexpensive program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. This school offers small class sizes and on-hands instruction from faculty as well as a functioning dental hygiene clinic. This makes it easier for students to complete their clinical hours on campus. Students will need to complete a total of 120 credit hours of coursework, including their coursework from their associate’s degree, as well as clinical hours and a set of qualifying exams.
Average Annual Tuition: $10,549
In-State: $6,048
Out-of-State: $15,051
Graduation Rate: 34 percent
Student to Faculty Ratio: 22:1
6. Midwestern State University
Wichita Falls, Texas
Points: 5
Website
Earning a BSDH degree and dental assistant studies from Midwestern State University has never been easier. This school offers a bachelor’s degree in the subject, which can be earned through the school’s College of Health Sciences and Human Services. It has one of the smallest student: faculty ratios on this list. It’s a great place to get individualized attention from the school’s renown faculty and staff. This school has its own dental hygiene clinic on the campus, which is perfect for students who need practical experience. The affordable degree program is accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation and will lead to licensure. Students need to complete:
- a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework
- clinical hours
- a set of qualifying exams
Sample courses include:
- Oral Radiology
- Periodontology
- Dental Materials.
Average Annual Tuition: $10,208
In-State: $9,233
Out-of-State: $11,183
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
Student: Faculty Ratio: 18:1
5. West Virginia University
Morgantown, West Virginia
Points: 6
Website
West Virginia University offers one of the most affordable BSDH degrees and dental assistant studies. The low cost program is offered by the university’s School of Dentistry. It features:
- small class sizes
- incredible internship opportunities
- state-of-the-art facilities so students can practice what they learn in a classroom
This degree is perfect for pre-service professionals, enabling them to move straight into their career after graduation. The program requires:
- a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework
- professional field experiences
- a set of qualifying exams
Sample courses include:
- Introduction to Pathology
- Clinical Dental Hygiene
- Technical Expression in Dental Literature.
Average Annual Tuition: $16,903
In-State: $8,856
Out-of-State: $24,950
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
Student : Faculty Ratio: 20:1
4. Eastern Washington University
Cheney, Washington
Points: 6
Website
One of the most affordable BSDH degrees and dental assistant studies is at Eastern Washington University. This inexpensive school is a great place for students interested in supervised education. The small class sizes make this possible along with a dedicated staff with years of experience in the field. Students can opt for an entry-level bachelor’s degree or complete their degree with the aid of an associate’s degree. A master’s degree in the field is also available. All students in the BSDH program must complete:
- a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework
- a set of qualifying exams
- a supervised practicum and clinical hours f
Sample courses include:
- Restorative Hygiene
- Special Populations
- Pain Management.
Average Annual Tuition: $15,894
In-State: $7,333
Out-of-State: $24,455
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
Student : Faculty Ratio: 21:1
3. Rhode Island College
Providence, Rhode Island
Points: 6
Website
Rhode Island College offers a great low-cost BSDH. This degree is offered as an interdisciplinary program in conjunction with the school’s major departments. Students at this affordable school have one of the lowest student: faculty ratios on this list. They have the ability to complete clinical hours on campus. They also have the option to concentrate in Dental Hygiene and another concentration, such as Human Services or Medical Laboratory Sciences. This inexpensive degree program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Please note that this a degree completion program only. An accredited associate’s degree is required for entry. The program requires:
- a total of 120 credit hours of coursework
- clinical hours
- a set of qualifying exams
Sample courses include:
- Personal Health
- Dental Anatomy
- Current Topics in Dental Hygiene.
Average Annual Tuition: $15,311
In-State: $8,929
Out-of-State: $21,692
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
Student : Faculty Ratio: 14:1
2. Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, Illinois
Points: 6
Website
One of the most affordable BSDH degrees and dental hygiene studies can be found at Southern Illinois University. This is the only degree of its kind in the state of Illinois. It is fully accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Students have the option to complete the full program on campus. If they are already working in the field, they can opt to complete their cost bachelor’s degree online. Students will have access to clinical facilities on campus and small class sizes. All students will need to complete:
- a minimum of 120 credit hours
- clinical hours
- a set of qualifying exams
More information on this degree can be found by contacting the school’s admission office.
Average Annual Tuition: $14,704
In-State: $14,704
Out-of-State: $14,704
Graduation Rate: 40 percent
Student : Faculty Ratio: 14:1
1. Farmingdale State College
Farmingdale, New York
Points: 6
Website
Farmingdale State College offers our most affordable BSDH degrees and dental assistant studies. It is also considered to be among the top 10 best dental hygiene programs in the country. Students complete this degree program through the department of health services. The degree is fully accredited by the Commission on Dental Hygiene. This program is supported by:
- a faculty of experienced professionals
- small class sizes
- clinical facilities
- access to student associations dedicated to dental hygiene
This inexpensive degree requires:
- a minimum of 120 credit hours of coursework
- clinical hours
- a capstone project
- a set of qualifying exams
More information on this degree and sample course offerings can be found by contacting the school’s admissions office.
Average Annual Tuition: $13,196
In-State: $8,306
Out-of-State: $18,086
Graduation Rate: 40 percent
Student : Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for a Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene and Dental Assistant Studies?
- Licensed Dental Hygienist
- Talent Acquisition Specialist for Dental Practices
- Dental Practice Manager
- Dental Office Manager
- Health Services Professor at a College or University
- Claims Audit and Appeal Specialist
- Medical/Dental Writer
- Health Services Journalist
- Certified Medical Coder
- Corporate Educator
- Educational Researcher
- State Dental Public Health Officer
- Dental Insurance Officer
- Dental Hygiene Program Director
How Much Can You Earn in This Field?
The current average salary for a dental hygienist is $89,650. Starting salaries can be as low as $65,000 a year for professionals with no previous experience in the field. Experienced dental hygienists can make upwards of $100,000, especially if they are in private practice. Salaries are determined by:
- the size of the dental office
- whether it is in private or public practice
- cost of living for the region
- years of experience
- additional endorsements
These salaries do not reflect any additional forms of compensation.
One of the most important things for a professional to remember about becoming a dental hygienist is that most dental offices will only hire them for part-time jobs. This means that some dental hygienists have two jobs working for different clinics. Salaries can vary from office to office but working two jobs will give professionals a range of experiences that they can use when they are ready to move up into a manager role.
Something to keep in mind about a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene and dental assistant studies is that it is a job that can see a professional become a dental office manager or work in other supervisory roles. This can lead to higher salaries and more responsibility, enabling them to reach the heights of their career goals.
What are the Various Disciplines of Dental Hygiene and Dental Assistant Studies?
Dental hygiene and dental assistant studies is a field focused on the discipline of dental medicine. Professionals in the field will spend most of their time in an education program learning about medicine, dental medicine, pharmacology, and more. They also are informed by the public health, law and ethics code.
However, dental hygienists are interdisciplinary professionals, meaning that alongside their medical understanding of their field, they are also trained to impart preventative health and health services knowledge to their patients. They are trained in computer software, such as electronic health records, to help them keep track of their patients. Other disciplines that they use include writing, communication, and history.
There are no set specializations for dental hygienists. However, some professionals can be licensed to:
- administer anesthesia
- perform dental radiography
- screen for oral cancer
- discuss oral cancer prevention tips
While not a highlighted specialization, hygienists can also work for:
- insurance companies
- private businesses
- the government in specialized training roles.
Are Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene and Dental Assistant Studies Accredited?
It is possible for a bachelor’s degree in dental hygienist and dental assistant studies to be accredited. However, not all are. Accreditation is a rigorous process that can take a year or two to be completed and not all programs will meet the requirements. Those that have met the requirements proudly state this on the program’s website.
Accreditation can come from a few places. One of the most well-known accrediting bodies is the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Another is the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Both will pave the way for a professional to become licensed as a dental hygienist or a dental assistant.
Accreditation is necessary for any professional who wants to become a licensed or registered dental hygienist, which is the highest level available for this field. Licensure will enable professionals to work for the government or in public dental offices. This provides them with more employment opportunities and the chance to earn a higher salary. All 50 states in the U.S. require dental hygienists to be accredited in order to work.
Both associate’s and bachelor’s degrees can be accredited and lead to licensure. However, bachelor’s degrees provide the best pathway forward to ensure that students pass the licensing exam. The schools in this ranking all provide a pathway for this career goal.
Is Licensure Required to be a Dental Hygienist or Dental Assistant?
Licensure is not required in some states for a dental assistant. This is a formal designation that improves a professional’s employment chances. However, licensure does exist for dental assistants. Licensure is a great choice for assistants who wish to make more money in their career. Licensed jobs nearly always pay more than non-licensed jobs.
Dental hygienists are required by law to be licensed before practicing in any capacity. There are no exceptions to this rule. Because this is a regulated field, most schools will offer a pathway to licensure, as it is the biggest draw for completing the program.
Earning licensure for either position will require a minimum of an associate’s degree from an accredited college or university. Please note that most employers are now looking for a bachelor’s degree in the field. Students will then need to complete a clinical experience, which is most commonly completed during their time at a college. After that, students will need to contact their state’s board that controls licensing and find out about the national or state clinical exam. Additionally, all professionals will need to be CPR-certified. They will also need to successfully complete a background check. Continuing education is a requirement to keep licensure.
What is the Importance of Earning a Bachelor’s Degree in the Field if it’s Possible to Work with Just an Associate’s Degree?
The importance of degree designation lies within a professional’s career goals. If a professional wishes to always work as a dental hygienist and can earn licensure through a two-year degree, then an associate’s degree may be all that they require. Since there are significantly more associate’s degree programs in this field than bachelor’s degree, it can be a great option for working students who are not interested in a four-year degree.
However, for those who are interested in reaching managerial or supervisory roles in the field, a bachelor’s degree is needed. This is because many dental offices will offer office manager roles to professionals who have earned an accredited bachelor’s degree. Many government dental offices are also looking for professionals with a bachelor’s degree. A four-year degree will offer students more employment options.
There are other advantages to earning a BSDH degree in dental hygiene and dental assistant studies. Professionals will have the chance to work as researchers, curriculum instructors, and professors. A bachelor’s degree offers the chance to study leadership skills and put them into practice far before graduation. These graduates are in a good position to serve in other high-level health services positions.
Another advantage is the salary difference. Dental hygienists are in high demand, with a 19 percent job outlook through 2024. Dentists all over the country are looking for qualified candidates. Earning a bachelor’s degree means that instead of a median starting salary of $50,000, professionals will enjoy a median starting salary of $75,000 and up, depending on their previous work experience.
But perhaps the biggest draw for completing a bachelor’s degree is that professionals will be able to pursue higher education, such as a Master’s in Public Health or a related field. With an undergraduate degree under their belt, professionals will find the move into a related career in health services much easier than a professional with just an associate’s degree.
With so many affordable bachelor’s programs available for dental hygienists, it makes more sense to enroll in a four-year program, even if it is a completion or bridge program. Most schools offer students the chance to utilize their associate’s degree while completing their bachelor’s degree, cutting down the time they spend in the program. With online and part-time options available, every dental hygienist should apply for a bachelor’s program.
Dental hygiene is a fast-growing field, one that requires qualified professionals to do the job well. While it is possible to earn an associate’s degree and become a dental hygienist, a bachelor’s degree will expand a professional’s career opportunities.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the Top 15 Most Affordable Bachelor’s Degrees in Dental Hygienist and Dental Assistant Studies.
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