Dental Hygiene/Hygienist

CIP 51.0602 Associate Certificate

Program Availability

Schools Offering

198

221 total including inactive

States

42

Across 42 states

Graduates (2024)

4,341

Total completions

Dental Hygiene/Hygienist is offered as a associate and certificate program at schools across 42 states, making it a solid trade program. The most popular states are California, Texas and North Carolina.

Career & Cost Overview

Median Salary

$94,260

Dental Hygienists

Job Growth

+7%

10-year projected growth

Median Tuition

$4,386

In-state annual rate

Graduates typically pursue careers as Dental Hygienists. In-state tuition ranges from $576 to $15,228, and the work is primarily indoor with heavy physical demands — suited for hands-on learners who enjoy practical work.

Graduate Demographics

Gender Distribution

Male: 265 (6.1%)
Female: 4,076 (93.9%)

Degree Level Distribution

Associate: 4,179 (96.3%)
Certificate: 162 (3.7%)

Is This Career Right for You?

Is This Career Right for You?

Interest Profile (Holland Codes)

S
Social
I
Investigative
R
Realistic

helping and working with people; research, analysis, and problem-solving; hands-on, practical work with tools and equipment

What does this mean? ▼

This career is best suited for people who enjoy:

  • Helping others
  • Teaching
  • Conducting research
  • Solving complex problems
  • Building things
  • Working with hands

Ideal Candidate Profile

👤 Personality Traits

Empathetic
Patient
Analytical
Curious
Practical
Hands-on

💡 Interests

Helping others
Teaching
Conducting research
Solving complex problems
Building things
Working with hands

Work Values

Active Listening
Speaking
Instructing
Helping others
Knowledge
Independence

Ask Yourself These Questions

1

Do you enjoy helping and working with people; research, analysis, and problem-solving; hands-on, practical work with tools and equipment?

2

Do you value active listening?

3

Are you willing to develop the technical skills required for this field?

This Career May Be Great For You If:

  • Hands-on learners who enjoy practical work
  • Analytical thinkers who enjoy problem-solving
  • People-oriented individuals who enjoy helping others

Consider These Challenges:

  • Those who prefer desk-based, theoretical work
  • Those who prefer routine tasks
  • Those who prefer working independently
💭

Note: This assessment is based on typical requirements and characteristics for careers in this field. Individual experiences may vary. Consider your own interests, values, and goals when making career decisions.

Where Can You Study Dental Hygiene/Hygienist?

Click on any state to view schools offering this program.

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