If you are interested in pursuing a career in dentistry and you are looking for the best affordable online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene degree to help you reach your professional goals, you have come to the right place. Although some positions can be obtained with an associate degree, a four-year program allows aspiring hygienists to advance their education, earn licensure, and enjoy more employment prospects. Some schools offer traditional four-year bachelor’s degrees, while others offer completion programs or bridge options. Programs are offered on-campus, online, or a combination of the two. Below, we take a look at several different types of affordable online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene degrees for students seeking maximum flexibility via distance learning.
Methodology
Below, we outline the top 25 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene degrees. To develop our initial list of colleges and universities offering this program, we searched for dental hygiene bachelor’s degrees using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We narrowed down the initial pool of 30 schools into the top 25 programs by awarding points based on the average cost of attendance, student-to-faculty ratios, and graduation rates.
Average Cost of Attendance
First, we analyzed each school’s average cost of attendance from NCES. Although we understand the temptation to want to attend the cheapest school possible, keep in mind that you are investing in your education — one of the biggest purchases you will make in your lifetime. As such, it is important to make sure that the college or university you choose is not only affordable but also checks off most of the items on your “must-have” list, whether that be a certain major, an extracurricular or student club, or opportunities for hands-on learning. For this article, we awarded points based on the cost of one year of academic study for an in-state student. Although we did not use out-of-state rates to award points, we included this information for your review.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Next, we looked at student-to-faculty ratios to get a better idea of class size and the overall learning environment. While some students prefer to learn in a smaller setting that provides greater accountability, others thrive in the hustle-and-bustle of a larger environment. By the same token, some may enjoy the chance to develop relationships with other students and faculty members, while others prefer to blend into the background of a larger class. Think about your own academic background, learning style, and personal priorities when considering these numbers. Although every student is different and there are benefits and drawbacks to both, we awarded the most points to colleges and universities with the lowest student-to-faculty ratio, according to NCES.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Finally, to gauge student satisfaction and success, we awarded points based on each school’s graduation rate. Although this figure might not be the first thing you look for in a program, it is undoubtedly one of the most important. After all, the goal is to graduate with your degree, and what better number to represent that than the graduation rate? Colleges and universities with high graduation rates are doing something right to keep their students enrolled. This could be anything from offering plenty of academic support, employing experienced faculty, or offering affordable programs. Students are satisfied with their academic studies, so they continue through the program to ultimately graduate. Therefore, we awarded the most points to schools with the highest graduation rates, as reported by NCES.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 25 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene Degrees
25. University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, Connecticut
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1927, the University of Bridgeport is a private post-secondary institution and one of the most affordable universities for an online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene degree. Students who hold an associate degree and licensure can pursue UB’s low-cost, online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and graduate within two years. Offered through the Fones School of Dental Hygiene, the first dental hygiene school in the world, the economical online degree program consists of 121 credits of study, including 60 to 90 approved transfer credits. Students complete 22 credits of core dental hygiene courses in areas like statistical reasoning, advanced clinical concepts, instructional strategies for the health professional, and dental hygiene practice management. Undergraduates also complete dental hygiene research and an internship before graduating from the program.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene B.S. Online
In-State Tuition: $33,055
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,055
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 42 percent
24. Vermont Technical College
Randolph Center, Vermont
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1866, Vermont Technical College is a public technical school. VTC’s School of Nursing and Health Professions offers a low-cost 120-credit online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. This economical online degree-completion program is designed for hygienists who have already completed an associate degree. Areas of study at the bachelor’s level include dental hygiene methodology and leadership, advanced periodontics, advanced community oral health, dental hygiene research methods, and practice management. All courses are completed online with no required campus visits. Students can earn their degree in as few as two years. Graduates are prepared for careers in dental hygiene research, education, public health, and sales.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene (+2 BS)
In-State Tuition: $15,108
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,780
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 51 percent
23. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Worcester, Massachusetts
Points: 6
Program Website
Students looking for an affordable online dental hygiene degree may consider attending the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Established in 1823, MCPHS offers a high-value, online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. This economical, part-time degree-completion program is offered entirely online for working hygienists. However, all new students are required to attend an in-person orientation at the Boston campus. Topics covered include public health and policy, healthcare management, health promotion, oral health in special care populations, and teaching in the clinical setting. Undergraduates also learn about evidence-based dental hygiene practice and oral health research methods. Students must complete 122 credits to earn the B.S. degree.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene – Degree Completion
In-State Tuition: $33,600
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,600
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 71 percent
22. University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Points: 6
Program Website
Recognized as one of the most affordable universities for an online dental hygiene degree, the University of Michigan is a public research university and the oldest institution of higher education in the state. UMich offers an inexpensive, online dental hygiene degree-completion program that is designed for students with an associate degree. Students complete the remaining 36 credits needed for their bachelor’s degree in areas like health promotion and risk reduction, research and evidence-based practice, prevention and management of oral diseases, and both leadership and professional development. A practicum course and capstone project are required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene Degree Completion
In-State Tuition: $15,262
Out-of-State Tuition: $49,350
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 92 percent
21. Ferris State University
Big Rapids, Michigan
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded as Big Rapids Industrial School in 1884, Ferris State University is a public research university and the ninth-largest university by enrollment in the state. Undergraduates looking for a low-cost online dental hygiene degree can pursue FSU’s degree-completion program and earn their bachelor’s degree in just two years. Students must already hold an associate degree in dental hygiene or be enrolled in the final year of an associate degree program to be eligible for the bachelor’s program. The curriculum allows students to engage with the latest research, develop experience in enhanced technologies, and build their critical thinking and leadership skills.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene Program
In-State Tuition: $11,788
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,788
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
20. East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, Tennessee
Points: 6
Program Website
East Tennessee State University is a public university and a member of the State University and Community College System of Tennessee. Established in 1911, ETSU offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree-completion program designed for students who have earned an associate degree in dental hygiene. Students must complete a total of 120 credits of study, including core classes in community and rural dental health, geriatric dental hygiene, anesthesia and pain control, and supportive periodontal therapy. A dental hygiene clinical seminar is also required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene B.S. Completion Degree
In-State Tuition: $8,935
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,199
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
19. Augusta University
Augusta, Georgia
Points: 6
Program Website
Undergraduates seeking a cost-effective online dental hygiene degree may consider attending Augusta University. Established in 1828, Augusta University is a public institution of higher education as well as an academic medical center. A member of the University System of Georgia, Augusta offers an inexpensive, online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene designed for graduates of accredited associate dental hygiene programs. The curriculum is available entirely online and features coursework in periodontics, dental sciences, public health and workforce issues, dental informatics, and dental hygiene case management. Students must complete a total of 120 hours to earn the B.S. degree.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene – Degree Completion Track
In-State Tuition: $8,604
Out-of-State Tuition: $23,156
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 31 percent
18. University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1931, the University of Louisiana at Monroe is a public university and a member of the University of Louisiana System. ULM offers an economical online dental hygiene degree in the form of a cheap Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree-completion program. The top-value online degree program is limited to undergraduates who hold an associate degree in dental hygiene. Areas of study include patient management, clinical dental hygiene, general and oral pathology, oral radiology, and dental anatomy. A dental hygiene practicum experience and a community and preventive dentistry field experience are also required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science Degree Completion in Dental Hygiene (AAS to BS)
In-State Tuition: $8,554
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,654
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
17. Farmingdale State College
Farmingdale, New York
Points: 6
Program Website
The State University of New York (SUNY) at Farmingdale, also known as Farmingdale State College, is a public technology college and a member of the SUNY System. Established in 1912, FSC offers a high-value online dental hygiene degree in the form of a budget-friendly Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. This two-year, low-cost, online degree-completion program features fully online courses, small class sizes, and an expert, dedicated team of faculty. Required coursework covers gerontology, oral epidemiology in public health, practice management, and teaching strategies for healthcare educators. Students also gain hands-on experience through an applied learning capstone practicum. A total of 64 credits beyond the associate degree are required for the online B.S. in Dental Hygiene.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
In-State Tuition: $8,306
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,086
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
16. Wichita State University
Wichita, Kansas
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1895, Wichita State University is a public research university and recognized as one of the most affordable universities for an online dental hygiene degree. WSU’s cheap online dental hygiene degree-completion program builds on what students learned during their associate-level studies. Coursework covers population health management, research and evidence-based practice, leadership, and curriculum design, evaluation, and management in dental hygiene. Undergraduates complete the 32-credit-hour program entirely online and can graduate in as few as 15 months. Graduates are prepared for careers in educational settings, community health settings, evidence-based practice, and leadership in clinical practice.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene Degree Completion
In-State Tuition: $8,270
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,452
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
15. Minnesota State University – Mankato
Mankato, Minnesota
Points: 6
Program Website
Minnesota State University-Mankato, known simply as Minnesota State, is a public university that was established in 1858 as the Second State Normal School. The second-oldest member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System, MSU offers a best-value online dental hygiene degree in the form of a cheap Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. This fully online, low-priced degree program is designed for current and licensed dental hygienists. The curriculum is comprised of 11 courses for a total of 32 credits beyond the associate degree. Areas of study include educational practice and methods, oral health promotion practice, research methods in dental hygiene, technology in oral health, and decision-making in periodontology. Students can choose from a standard or accelerated track to earn their online bachelor’s in just one to two years.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene Bachelor Degree Completion Program
In-State Tuition: $8,184
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,235
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
14. Texas Woman’s University
Denton, Texas
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1901, Texas Woman’s University is a public coeducational university and the largest state-support university primarily for women in the country. TWU offers a top-value online dental hygiene degree-completion program for students who have already graduated from a CODA-accredited associate program. To earn the inexpensive, online 120-hour bachelor’s degree, students must complete a minimum of 30 hours at TWU, including 12 hours of core or electives and 18 hours of dental hygiene classes. Areas of study include applied evidence-based research, oral health worldview, and alternative dental hygiene practice. Undergraduates also explore dental hygiene clinical case study development and professional development for the registered dental hygienist. Courses are offered entirely online and are non-clinical. Students can graduate within one year.
Degree Options:
RDH-to-BSDH – Online
In-State Tuition: $7,796
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,756
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 43 percent
13. University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Points: 6
Program Website
The University of New Mexico is a public research university that offers an affordable online dental hygiene degree. Established in 1889, UNM provides a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) to a cheap, online, Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) degree-completion program through its School of Medicine. Designed for students who already hold dental hygiene licensure as well as an associate degree, the curriculum expands on basic dental hygiene skills and knowledge. Areas of study include advanced training, public health, research, management, and education. Courses are offered entirely online in an eight-week format that allows students to enroll on a part- or full-time basis. Students must complete a minimum of 30 credit hours at UNM. Graduates are prepared to work in research, public health, insurance, education, business, and medical settings.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene (RDH-BSDH)
In-State Tuition: $7,633
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,586
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
12. Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, Illinois
Points: 7
Program Website
Founded in 1869, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale is a public research university and the oldest campus of the Southern Illinois University System. SIUC is also an affordable university for an online dental hygiene degree. Undergraduates pursuing the cheap, online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree have the opportunity to complete an education and management option. This affordable, online degree track focuses on educational techniques, styles, philosophies, and theories as well as management concepts as they relate to healthcare. Undergraduates following the traditional track take classes in oral anatomy, patient assessment techniques, preventative oral care, periodontics, and dental pharmacology. Students must complete a total of 120 credit hours to earn the B.S. degree.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science (BS) Dental Hygiene
In-State Tuition: $14,704
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,160
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 41 percent
11. Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, Arizona
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1899, Northern Arizona University is a public research university and one of the most affordable universities for an online dental hygiene degree. NAU offers an inexpensive online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree-completion program that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Intended for licensed dental hygienists with a certificate or associate degree, the program is available entirely online. Students must complete a total of 120 units of credit, 30 of which must be taken through NAU. Areas of study include community health assessment and planning, community health program implementation, oral health research, dental hygiene leadership, and oral health outcomes. Graduates are prepared for careers in research, dental hygiene education, and public health as well as graduate study.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene – Degree Completion Program, Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
In-State Tuition: $11,564
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,828
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
10. The Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1870, the Ohio State University is a public research university and the third-largest institution of higher education by enrollment in the U.S. OSU provides an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program that can be completed within one to five years. The low-cost, online degree program is designed for licensed dental hygienists who hold an associate degree from a CODA-accredited program. The B.S. curriculum includes general education coursework, advanced dental hygiene courses, and a specialization area. Topics of study include research methods and interpretation, oral health behavior management, practice management, and periodontal therapy. Students also gain experience via a dental hygiene practicum course.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene
In-State Tuition: $10,726
Out-of-State Tuition: $30,742
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 84 percent
9. Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia
Points: 7
Program Website
Old Dominion University is a public research university that began as the Norfolk Division of the College of William & Mary in 1930. Today, ODU is also recognized as one of the most affordable universities for an online dental hygiene degree program. ODU’s School of Dental Hygiene offers an inexpensive, online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene that is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Students are required to complete at least 30 credit hours at ODU for a total of 120 credit hours of study. The curriculum includes topics like telehealthcare technology, administrative leadership, research methods in health sciences, and perspectives on dental hygiene practice. An accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s program is also available.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
In-State Tuition: $10,560
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,460
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
8. University of South Dakota
Vermillion, South Dakota
Points: 7
Program Website
Students looking for a top-value online dental hygiene degree might consider the University of South Dakota. Established in 1862, USD is the oldest public university in South Dakota as well as the state’s flagship school. USD’s affordable, online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program is designed for students who have earned an associate degree in dental hygiene or who are currently enrolled in a CODA-accredited program. The curriculum allows students to develop their knowledge of current trends in dentistry, inclusive patient care, collaborative dental hygiene practice, inter-professional practice, and leadership. Graduates are prepared for careers in clinical practice, government, public health, sales, research, and education.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene Program
In-State Tuition: $9,061
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,425
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
7. University of Mississippi Medical Center
Jackson, Mississippi
Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Mississippi Medical Center is the only academic health science center in the state. Established in 1903, UMMC operates seven health science schools and enrolls more than 3,000 students each year. UMMC offers two affordable dental hygiene degree programs: a traditional on-campus bachelor’s degree that prepares students for licensure and an online degree-completion program designed for those who are already licensed. Students who choose the online option can complete the program within five semesters. Graduates are prepared for careers in research, education, public health, and clinical practice.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene
In-State Tuition: $8,660
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,614
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
6. University of Missouri-Kansas City
Kansas City, Missouri
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1933, the University of Missouri-Kansas City is a public research university and one of four campuses that make up the University of Missouri System. It is also home to the only public dental school in Missouri or Kansas. UMKC offers an affordable online dental hygiene degree in the form of a Registered Dental Hygiene (RDH) to Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice in the clinical, behavioral, and biomedical sciences. Coursework is available online except for three required campus visits, and students can attend part-time while fulfilling family obligations or working. UMKC also offers a vast network of employers, extensive oral health libraries, advanced laboratories, and access to nationally recognized researchers.
Degree Options:
RDH to BSDH Degree Completion
In-State Tuition: $8,178
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,207
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
5. Oregon Institute of Technology
Klamath Falls, Oregon
Points: 8
Program Website
The Oregon Institute of Technology is a public polytechnic university that was established in 1947. Oregon Tech is also a top choice among undergraduates seeking an affordable online dental hygiene degree. The school offers a low-cost, online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene designed for students who have already completed an associate degree in dental hygiene. The inexpensive, online bachelor’s degree program integrates management, education, public health, and dental hygiene courses with a general education core. Electives are offered in management, psychology, business, public health, and teaching. Classes are available entirely online with no campus visits required.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
In-State Tuition: $10,118
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,668
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
4. Eastern Washington University
Cheney, Washington
Points: 8
Program Website
Founded in 1882 as Eastern Washington State College, Eastern Washington University is a public university that offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree-completion program. Designed for licensed dental hygienists who hold a two-year degree from a community college, the low-priced degree program is available entirely online with no campus visits. Areas of study include oral healthcare management, clinical education, leadership and professional development, and oral health promotion. Students also investigate the principles of dental health as well as contemporary issues in clinical dental hygiene. The 40-credit program culminates with a dental hygiene capstone course and an education/health promotion practicum experience.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene Degree Completion
In-State Tuition: $7,323
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,444
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
3. The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
San Antonio, Texas
Points: 8
Program Website
Established in 1959, the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio is a public academic health science center and a member of the University of Texas System. UT Health San Antonio is also the largest health science-focused university in South Texas. The school provides an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree-completion program for licensed dental hygienists looking to advance their education. The curriculum focuses on dental and dental hygiene sciences, the principles of hygiene therapy, and the theoretical aspects of patient care. Opportunities for graduates include research, sales, marketing, teaching, and dental management.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene Bachelor of Science Degree Completion
In-State Tuition: $5,704
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,772
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
2. Clayton State University
Morrow, Georgia
Points: 8
Program Website
Taking the number two spot on our list of the most affordable universities for an online dental hygiene degree is Clayton State University. Established in 1969, CSU is a public university and a member of the University System of Georgia. CSU offers an affordable online Registered Dental Hygiene (RDH) to Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH). The economical, online degree program is designed for licensed hygienists who hold an associate degree from a Commission on Dental Hygiene-accredited school. Areas of study include management and marketing in the dental environment, community dental health, clinical dental hygiene, and transitional dental hygiene. A double major in healthcare management is also available.
Degree Options:
RDH-BSDH Completion Program
In-State Tuition: $5,419
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,880
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 30 percent
1. St. Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, Florida
Points: 8
Program Website
Topping our list of the most affordable universities for an online dental hygiene degree is St. Petersburg College, a public institution of higher education and a member of the Florida College System. SPC’s cheap, online Bachelor of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene is the first and only bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene in Florida that is available entirely online. Students have the option of either enrolling concurrently with an associate in dental hygiene program or pursuing the SPC’s B.A.S. program after becoming a registered dental hygienist. Major core courses examine community health and epidemiology, leadership, practice management, dental hygiene research, and educational concepts. A dental hygiene capstone is also required for graduation. Graduates are prepared for career opportunities in sales, education, and practice management.
Degree Options:
Dental Hygiene B.A.S. Degree
In-State Tuition: $2,682
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,286
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 24:1
Graduation Rate: 32 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene Degree?
The typical entry-level education for the field of dental hygiene is an associate degree. However, undergraduates who pursue an online bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene are better equipped for positions in the field. Dental hygienists do more than simply clean teeth; they are responsible for examining a patient’s mouth and teeth for injuries, signs of decay, or cavities. They also educate patients on proper oral hygiene, assist dentists with oral procedures, and take X-rays. The most common career option for someone who has earned an online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene is, of course, that of the dental hygienist. However, there are many other positions to consider such as:
- Medical/Dental Writer
- Claims Audit and Appeal Specialist
- Health Services Professor
- Dental Supervisor or Manager
- Talent Acquisition Specialist for Dental Practices
- Dental Insurance Officer
- State Dental Public Health Officer
- Educational Researcher
- Corporate Educator
- Certified Medical Coder
- Health Services Journalist
After earning an online bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene, graduates are prepared to work in many different locations. These can include dental clinics, nursing homes, and hospitals. By the same token, graduates who earn an online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene are not limited to a single track. Rather, they can be found in correctional facilities, insurance agencies, research institutes, and pharmaceutical sales. They can also work in research, corporate offices, and public health. With enough experience and the appropriate credentials, they can also become a dental office manager or explore teaching opportunities.
What is the Salary Potential for an Online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene Degree?
Several factors can affect salary potential for dental hygienists. These include the level of education, location in which one practices, level of experience in the field, additional endorsements, and the size and type of employer, whether it be a public or private practice. To learn more about average earnings, we turned to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. According to the BLS, dental hygienists earned an average salary of $74,820 per year, or $35.97 per hour, as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent earned more than $101,820, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $51,930. In May 2018, the median annual wages for dental hygienists were highest in the following industries:
- Dentists’ offices: $75,090
- Physicians’ offices: $71,630
- Government: $60,630
Also, the BLS indicates that employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 11 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations. Why? As more links are made between general health and oral health, the need for experienced dental hygienists is also increasing. More people are understanding the need for preventative services and thus strive to schedule regular cleanings every six months. Since dental hygienists can perform routine dental maintenance, dentists are free to focus on more complex procedures.
It is also important to keep in mind that most dental hygienists are only hired on a part-time basis. This means that some dental hygienists make work for two different employers at two different clinics. While salaries might not be the same at each location, working two jobs will give dental hygienists greater exposure and experience in the field when it comes time to advance into a managerial role. Holding a supervisory position means greater responsibilities and, ultimately, higher salaries.
What Will You Learn About in an Online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene Degree Program?
As you begin to research prospective schools, you will come to find two types of dental hygiene degrees: two-year completion programs and four-year entry-level programs. Most online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene degree programs are designed as two-year completion programs aimed at students who have already earned an associate degree in dental hygiene. These students are generally looking to develop more skills to advance their careers. This could include higher positions within the field such as management roles. Most online degree-completion programs can be finished in two years if students transfer in the credits earned during their associate program.
On the other hand, four-year programs consist of two years of prerequisite coursework and two years of major courses. These programs can be provided on-campus, online, or a combination of the two delivery methods. Adult learners and those looking for flexibility may veer toward an online program that allows them to complete coursework on their own time, at their own pace. Curriculum requirements will vary depending on the school, but most colleges and universities offer coursework in:
- Geriatric dental hygiene
- Rural and community dental health
- Pain management
- Dental hygiene educational concepts
- Epidemiology and community health
- Contemporary issues in dental hygiene
Keep in mind that a bachelor’s degree is only part of the process; a dental hygienist must also be licensed to practice. Licensure requirements vary by state. Therefore, the online undergraduate dental hygiene program you choose must be nationally or regionally accredited. To take it one step further, the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) is the accrediting body responsible for dental training programs. By pursuing a CODA-accredited degree, you can rest assured that you are receiving a high-quality, rigorous education that will best prepare you for a career in this field.
Dental hygiene is an exciting, lucrative, and fast-growing field. While it is possible to apply for a position with an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree increases job prospects and salary earnings. We hope that our list of the 25 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene degree programs provides students with a starting point for their education, something that both they and the public can benefit from down the road.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 25 best affordable online bachelor’s in dental hygiene degree programs.
Other Articles of Interest:
- 5 Characteristics of a Dental Hygienist
- 5 Differences Between a Dental Hygienist and a Dental Assistant
- 15 Best Affordable Dental Hygienist and Dental Assistant Studies Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- 25 of the Oldest American Colleges and Universities
- 25 Most Affordable Large, Private, Nonprofit Bachelor’s Colleges
- 30 Most Inviting Yet Affordable College Dorms in America
- 25 Largest HBCU Bachelor’s Colleges by Enrollment
- The 30 Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s-Granting Historically Black Colleges/ Universities
- These 30 Colleges are Reversing the Rise in Tuition
- 25 Most Exclusive Public Bachelor’s Colleges by Admission Rate
- 50 Most Entrepreneurial Schools in America
The Best Colleges
The Lowest Costs
The Highest Returns