Department of Dental Hygiene
Preparing skilled clinicians and leaders in oral health through rigorous academics, hands-on clinical training, and a tradition of excellence spanning more than 85 years.
Educating Leaders
in Oral Health
The Sarah Whitaker Glass School of Dental Hygiene at West Liberty University has been advancing oral health education for more than 85 years. Established in 1938, the department combines rigorous academics, immersive clinical training, and a strong commitment to community service—preparing graduates to succeed as skilled clinicians, leaders, educators, and advocates for lifelong oral health.
Degrees Offered
- Associate of Science (A.S.) in Dental Hygiene
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Dental Hygiene
Degree
Pathways
West Liberty University offers various dental hygiene pathways designed to support students at every stage of their academic and professional journey—from first-time college students to experienced clinicians pursuing advanced roles.
Best for: Students seeking the most direct path to clinical practice
The A.S. program prepares students for immediate entry into professional practice through an intensive, hands-on clinical curriculum. Graduates are eligible for licensure and well prepared for chairside care in a variety of oral healthcare settings.
Ideal if you want to:
- Enter the workforce as a dental hygienist as quickly as possible
- Focus on clinical skills and patient care
- Begin a professional healthcare career without pursuing a four-year degree initially
Best for: Students seeking career mobility, leadership, and expanded opportunities
The B.S. degree completion includes the associate degree curriculum with additional coursework in general studies, research, education, and practice management—opening doors beyond traditional clinical roles.
Ideal if you want to:
- Earn a four-year undergraduate degree
- Expand career options beyond entry-level practice
- Prepare for leadership, education, or public health roles
- Strengthen competitiveness in a changing healthcare field
Licensed dental hygienists with an Associate of Science Dental Hygiene degree from another institution may pursue a bachelor’s completion pathway. Flexible formats support working professionals balancing career and education.
Clinical Training
Facilities
The Dental Hygiene Department is housed in Campbell Hall, featuring modern instructional and clinical facilities designed to mirror today’s dental practice environments.
Facilities & Technology Include:
- 24 dental operatories with ADEC dental units
- Radiography suite with nine treatment rooms and digital X-ray imaging
- Simulation and skills laboratories
- Ascend Academic software
- Technology-enhanced classrooms
Students gain extensive real-world experience delivering patient care in a supervised clinical environment while serving the community.
Careers in
Dental Hygiene
Career Paths
Dental hygienists educated at West Liberty University are prepared for diverse career paths, including:
- Private dental practices
- Public health and school-based programs
- Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities
- Education and clinical research
- Military and federal health services
- Sales, industry, and health promotion roles
Graduates support patient wellness, disease prevention, and lifelong oral health across communities.
Licensure
& Practice
Dental hygienists practice under varying levels of supervision depending on state regulations. West Liberty University prepares graduates to meet national and regional licensure requirements.
Licensure Resources:
- West Virginia Dental Board
- Ohio State Dental Board
- Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry
Graduate
Competencies
Graduates demonstrate competence in:
- Ethical and legal practice
- Evidence-based decision making
- Community and population health
- Clinical assessment and care planning
- Quality improvement and patient safety
- Professional leadership and growth
Student Resources
& Engagement
Students and alumni benefit from a wide range of departmental resources and engagement opportunities, including:
- Dental Hygiene scholarships
- Continuing education programs
- Student American Dental Hygienists’ Association (SADHA)
- Community clinics and outreach initiatives
- Dental Hygiene job board
Mission, Vision
& Values
The Dental Hygiene Department fosters the development of competent, ethical oral health professionals who think critically, solve problems, and deliver compassionate, evidence-based care.
Core Values:
Opportunity · Caring · Professionalism · Excellence · Civic Engagement
The curriculum emphasizes patient-centered care, community engagement, ethical practice, and lifelong professional growth.
Contact the
Department
Have questions about programs, admissions, or career pathways? Our faculty and advisors are here to help you take the next step.
Stephanie Meredith
Department Chair, Sarah Whitaker Glass School of Dental Hygiene
West Liberty University
Phone: 304-336-8633
Email: smeredith@westliberty.edu
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.