Program type
Dental hygiene programs
Associate degree (most common), then written and clinical exams
Typical length
Usually 3 years“Programs usually take 3 years to complete.” BLS OOH: Dental Hygienists
Who approves it
In most states, licensure requires a degree from an accredited dental hygiene program.
Accreditation
CODA accredits dental hygiene programs.
CODA: Commission on Dental Accreditation
Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit dental and allied dental programs.
Find accredited programsWhat to check before you enroll
- CODA accreditation
- Board exam pass rates
- Prerequisites
- Clinic hours
Where it leads
Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Program finder
Searching approved programs by state and city is coming soon. Until then, use the accreditor directories above, your state board's approved list and the Department of Education's College Scorecard.
Sources
- BLS OOH: Dental Hygienists
- Commission on Dental Accreditation: find an accredited program
- Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (U.S. Department of Education)
Checked against these sources on Oct 1, 2026.