Dental Hygiene

Admission into this program is limited.
Visit the Allied Health Admissions page for details on the process and criteria to apply for this program.
Allied Health Admissions

• Individuals desiring a career in dental hygiene should, if possible, take biology, mathematics, English, humanities, and psychology courses prior to entering the program.
• Applicants must present evidence of good physical and mental health.

• Dental Hygiene Degree

Graduates must pass the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and the clinical ADEX Dental Hygiene exam sponsored by the American Board of Dental Examiners to be licensed to practice Dental Hygiene in North Carolina. Background checks will be conducted before licensure by the N.C. State Board of Dental Examiners (NCSBDE).

Professional Licensure and Certification Disclosure
In accordance with the U.S. Department of Education’s rules regarding Professional Licensure Programs effective July 1, 2020, disclosure is provided for all states indicating whether this program meets licensure requirements, does not meet licensure requirements, or has not been determined for each state.

Dental Hygiene Licensure Disclosure

Students must earn a grade of C or better in all curriculum courses in order to progress in the program.

In addition to tuition and textbooks, costs of this program include a laboratory fee, uniforms, shoes, instruments, physical and dental examinations, immunizations, health insurance, cost of licensure exams and miscellaneous other fees.

Employment
Almost all dental hygienists work in private or public dentists’ offices. A small number of hygienists work in other settings, including offices of physicians, outpatient clinics, dental supply companies, and schools. Dental hygienists work closely with dentists. 

Salary
The median salary for the state of North Carolina is $78,470 based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

General Disclosure
Beginning July 1, 2020, the U.S. Department of Education regulations require disclosures for all programs leading to a license or certification. The following document indicates whether this program’s curriculum meets state educational requirements for licensure or certification, does not meet state educational requirements for licensure or certification, or a determination has not been made.

Licensure Disclosure for Dental Hygiene

The program(s) in Dental Hygiene is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation status of Approval (without reporting requirements). The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at (800) 232-6108 or at 401 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 3300, Chicago, IL 60611-4250. The Commission’s web address is: http://coda.ada.org.

Individuals can file a complaint with CODA if they feel the program is in violation of any accreditation standards.

• Associate Degree Nursing
• Dental Assisting
• Medical Assisting
• Medical Laboratory
• Practical Nursing