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Why we like them: This online degree at TJC is a degree completion program, and the cheapest on our list. You'll also partake in a practicum experience. The program, accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), requires the completion of an AAS degree and an active RDH license.

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Why we like them: This degree completion program requires a total of 32 credit hours and can be finished in as little as 15 months, with a maximum period of six years for part-time learners. Unique aspects include the ability to earn up to 28 hours of credit for previous coursework and receiving in-state tuition regardless of residency. Additionally, WSU provides a dual-enrollment opportunity for concurrent acquisition of a bachelor’s and an associate degree in dental hygiene.

"Wichita State has shown me what it means to develop the whole student. We receive a lot of support, through advising and opportunities outside of the stated curriculum. Since it is a smaller school, every professor excels in learning your name and making a connection with you from the start."

Skylar Johnson, Graduated 2019

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Why we like them: UVU’s curriculum explores cultural and economic factors that impact patient care and dental delivery systems. This program also includes a learning and developmental theory component, training students not only as practitioners but also as educators. This allows graduates to effectively teach patients and the broader community, which is not always a core focus in similar degree completion programs.

"UVU did a great job of helping me to think beyond college and into my future."

Kaylyn, Graduated 2014

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Why we like them: This online degree completion program is tailored for those who have an Associate in Applied Science or Associate in Science Degree in Dental Hygiene. It offers a capstone practicum course, allowing you to partner with corporations, public health programs, or educational institutions based on your interests. Active participation in the Student American Dental Hygienists' Association is required.

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Why we like them: SIU provides an online degree completion option specifically for credentialed dental hygiene professionals holding associate degrees. Students partake in internships or research projects, while they delve into healthcare management concepts. Additionally, the program encourages engagement through initiatives like the "Give Kids a Smile Day," fostering community service. Students also benefit from participation in the American Dental Hygienists' Association's professional development opportunities.

"The support systems are in place for success...The professors are wonderful and seem truly vested in the success of their students..."

Ashley Lindsley, Graduated 2019

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Why we like them: Oregon Tech provides an RDH to BSDH degree completion program tailored for licensed dental hygienists. The earnings potential with this degree is impressive, with a median earning of $65,298 that places it in the top 19% for earnings comparisons nationally. The program, accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, allows you to harness credits from previous education and the dental hygiene national board examination. Notably, it grants 86 credits for completing the national exam, streamlining your path to achieving a bachelor's degree.

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Why we like them: Unlike many degree completion programs that require an associate degree and licensure first, MNSU allows students currently enrolled in a two-year dental hygiene program to begin their bachelor’s coursework early. This flexibility accelerates degree completion. Also, MNSU explicitly promotes alternative career opportunities, such as sales representatives, health education specialists, and medical/health service managers.

"Minnesota State University, Mankato has professors that are involved, rigorous, and caring about all of their students. The professors take the time to get to know all of their students and address them by name. They have a genuine interest whether you're learning the material or struggling with a topic... I have never been around more considerate professors and individuals."

Shauntel Thiele, Graduated 2019

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Why we like them: This online dental hygiene program highlights that all graduates from Vermont State’s dental hygiene programs have a perfect pass rate on key licensure exams. We believe this demonstrates strong faculty support and curriculum effectiveness.

"The professors were caring, knowledgeable, approachable, and truly invested in the students... I gained a lot of confidence and thoroughly enjoyed my classes."

Julia S., Graduated 2019

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Why we like them: SPC offers the first and only fully online bachelor's in dental hygiene in Florida, making it the only in-state option for licensed dental hygienists seeking career advancement without relocating or attending in-person classes. This online program is also recognized as one of the largest in the country. Plus, SPC allows students to be concurrently enrolled in an accredited A.S. dental hygiene program.

"I am an older person who decided to go back to school later in life... I researched online schools and decided on SPC and have never regretted my decision. I found everyone at this school to be very responsive... My advisor met with me multiple times to make sure I understood my classes, choices, and career path."

Joann White, Graduated 2022

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Why we like them: NAU's program is designed for licensed dental hygienists holding an associate degree or certificate to advance their education entirely online. Recognized by the ADA, it specifically prepares you for diverse health settings with a focus on underserved communities. Graduates make a median salary of $61,482 four years after graduating.

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Why we like them: GHC includes an internship course that must be completed in the student’s local community. GHC offers both 8-week and 16-week course formats, allowing students to complete their degree more quickly if desired. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals who want to advance their education on a faster timeline.

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Why we like them: ODU’s BSDH program requires no additional clinicals, making it ideal for working professionals who already have licensure and experience. The program highlights unique career opportunities in global health, modeling and simulation, marketing, and administration, expanding professional options beyond traditional dental roles. Also, ODU supports students with a Healthcare Heroes Scholarship, offering $3,000 for the first semester to equip them for success.

"Old Dominion University is a great university to attend. It is a very diverse university that offers numerous opportunities... Old Dominion University is a great choice to choose in following your future dreams."

Stacy Arellano, Graduated 2015

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Why we like them: We especially appreciate that FSU allows students in their final semester of an accredited A.S. in Dental Hygiene program to apply, expediting their educational pathway.

"The pro's of the program are that the staff wants the students to succeed...very strong community and very strong program."

Greg Fedirko, Graduated 2017

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Why we like them: This online degree in dental hygiene includes community and rural health program design, periodontal therapy, and soft tissue management for underserved populations, differentiating it from programs that focus solely on traditional clinical practice. And ETSU highlights that its online BSDH program is among the first established and most successful in the field, indicating a long-standing reputation for quality education and student outcomes.

"I had some fairly difficult coursework, but it was all doable. I am extremely happy with my experience there."

Nicolas Day, Graduated 2019

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Why we like them: This online bachelor's program includes real-world outreach initiatives, such as “Sealant Saturday,” where students provide free dental services to children, reinforcing public health education and hands-on learning. We also want to mention that Penn College offers a single tuition rate regardless of residency, making it more cost-effective than many schools that charge higher rates for out-of-state students.

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Why we like them: TWU allows full-time students to complete their CODA-accredited degree in as little as one year, making it one of the fastest degree completion options available. TWU is one of only a few public universities in Texas offering this fully online pathway, making it a rare in-state option for Texas residents looking to advance their education affordably.

"I loved Texas Woman's University while I was there and I am very proud to say that I earned my degree from this school."

Cara, Graduated 2017

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Why we like them: Unlike some entry-level dental hygiene programs, EWU requires applicants to complete observation hours before admission, ensuring that students understand the demands of the profession before committing. EWU provides transfer guides for over 20 colleges and universities, including community colleges in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Montana, making it one of the most accessible entry-level dental hygiene programs for students from multiple states.

"EWU offers a fantastic online degree completion program for dental hygienists who already have an associate degree but want to pursue further education... I am a better clinical dental hygienist because of EWU."

Lisa, Graduated 2016

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Why we like them: The Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene at MCPHS is the longest continuously running dental hygiene program in the country, giving it a historical reputation and institutional expertise unmatched by many newer programs. The strong support for students here is evident, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, the best on our entire list. It also has the highest graduation rate on our list of 72%.

"During my time here, I have learned about friendship, teamwork, dedication, and persistence. MCPHS has helped me determine my career path, making it a valuable experience."

Frances Nixon-Simon, Graduated 2020