Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Dental Hygiene
Build on clinical excellence and prepare for leadership, education, and expanded opportunities in today’s evolving oral healthcare landscape.
Expand Your Impact
in Oral Health
The Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree completion prepares graduates for professional practice today and career advancement tomorrow. This program combines strong clinical preparation through the Associate of Science Degree curriculum with additional coursework in general studies, research, education, and practice management —equipping graduates to move beyond entry-level roles and into positions of greater responsibility, influence, and impact within the evolving healthcare landscape.
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
Total Credits: 120
Outcome: Eligibility for Dental Hygiene Licensure
Format: On-campus with hands-on clinical experience
Program
Overview
Oral healthcare is expanding beyond the traditional dental chair. Employers increasingly seek dental hygienists with bachelor’s-level preparation who can lead teams, educate patients and communities, support population health initiatives, and adapt to changing care models.
The B.S. in Dental Hygiene is designed for students who want both clinical excellence and long-term career flexibility. Graduates are prepared to practice confidently upon licensure while remaining competitive for leadership roles, graduate study, and emerging opportunities in healthcare.
Who This
Program Is For
Future Leaders
Students interested in leadership, education, or public health roles within oral health.
Aspiring Clinicians & Researchers
Those planning to pursue graduate study in dental hygiene or related health fields.
Career Expanders
Individuals looking to broaden their opportunities beyond chairside clinical practice.
Undecided Students
Those unsure whether the associate or bachelor’s pathway is right for them—academic advisors can provide guidance to align degree choice with long-term goals.
What
You’ll Learn
Graduates of the B.S. in Dental Hygiene gain the clinical skills, professional judgment, and communication abilities needed for licensure and to advance in a dynamic oral health career.
CLINICAL SKILLS
- Perform comprehensive oral health assessments and preventive services
- Deliver safe, ethical, and patient-centered dental hygiene care
Professional & Communication Skills
- Communicate effectively with patients and healthcare teams
- Demonstrate professionalism, ethical decision-making, and accountability
Critical Thinking & Growth
- Apply evidence-based research to clinical decision-making
- Promote oral health and wellness across diverse populations
- Engage in lifelong learning and professional development
Curriculum
Overview
The curriculum balances foundational science, general education, and the Associate of Science clinical dental hygiene coursework, with additional content in research, education, and practice management.
Program Structure
- General Education & Prerequisites: 57 credits
- Clinical Dental Hygiene Coursework: 63 credits
- Completed during junior and senior years
- Includes additional coursework in research, education, and practice management
Required Prerequisites Include:
- English Composition I & II
- Psychology and Sociology
- Oral Communications
- Anatomy & Physiology with lab
- Chemistry with lab
- Microbiology
- Nutrition
A minimum grade of C in prerequisite courses and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 are required for admission into the professional phase of the program.
Career &
Outcomes
This degree provides the academic preparation and professional foundation employers seek for advanced and emerging roles within oral healthcare—while maintaining full eligibility for clinical practice and licensure.
Graduates of the B.S. in Dental Hygiene are prepared for a wide range of professional pathways, including:
- Clinical dental hygiene practice
- Lead or supervisory roles within dental practices and healthcare organizations
- Community and public health settings
- Patient education, outreach, and advocacy programs
- Graduate study in dental hygiene, public health, education, or related disciplines
Admission
Requirements
Admission to the Dental Hygiene program is competitive and selective, ensuring students are academically prepared for the rigor of clinical training. Students must meet the general admission requirements for West Liberty University and complete the Dental Hygiene program application.
Admission Requirements:
- Admission to West Liberty University
- Completion of the Dental Hygiene program application
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- Completion (or in progress) of required prerequisite coursework
Application Deadline: January 15
Qualified applicants are reviewed and ranked by the Dental Hygiene Admissions Committee, with selection based on academic performance and readiness for the clinical program.
Advisors are available to help students plan prerequisites and prepare strong applications.
Cost, Aid
& Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Already
Licensed?
Licensed dental hygienists with an Associate of Science Dental Hygiene degree from another institution may pursue the B.S. in Dental Hygiene Degree Completion Program. Flexible formats support working professionals balancing career and education. This option is available in full-time or part-time formats, allowing students to advance their education while maintaining professional and personal commitments.
Steps to
Enrollment
Step 1: Apply to West Liberty University
Step 2: Submit your Dental Hygiene program application
Step 3: Review the advising guide and prepare for enrollment
Admissions counselors and program advisors are here to support you at every step.
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.