We designed this plan to provide an extensive study of the theory and practice of dental hygiene. It is the only Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene Program (BSDH) in Arizona. Oral health is an important part of total health and there is increased demand for dental hygiene services in public and private health settings. The program provides many opportunities for students to develop expertise in oral health education and clinical care for underserved populations in northern Arizona.
This plan is nationally recognized by the American Dental Association.
This program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
More Information
Professional dental hygienists with good people skills can make patients feel more comfortable and confident that they're getting the best care. If you like working closely with others and are interested in science, then a career in dental hygiene may be for you.
The Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene is a four-year program that includes two years of prerequisite course work and two years of professional education. Practice in our 18-chair dental hygiene clinic and five-chair radiographic facility. Our program is fully accredited by the American Dental Association. You will graduate fully prepared to take regional and national board examinations.
Note: If you want to major in Dental Hygiene, you must apply and be accepted to the Department of Dental Hygiene's program in addition to being admitted to the university.
To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the liberal studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 123 |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 114 |
| Additional Admission Requirements | Required |
| Fieldwork Experience/Internship | Required |
| Additional Fees/Program Fees | Required |
| University Honors Program | Optional |
| Some online/blended coursework | Required |
| AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A | Recommended |
| Progression Plan Link | View Progression Plan |
Purpose Statement
We designed this plan to provide an extensive study of the theory and practice of dental hygiene. It is the only Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene Program (BSDH) in Arizona. Oral health is an important part of total health and there is increased demand for dental hygiene services in public and private health settings. The program provides many opportunities for students to develop expertise ... in oral health education and clinical care for underserved populations in northern Arizona.
This plan is nationally recognized by the American Dental Association.
Student Learning Outcomes
Outcomes align with Standards from the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation
Individual program admission requirements over and above admission to NAU are required.
Take the following 71 units:
Dental Science courses
Additional coursework is required, if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 123 units of credit.
Be aware that some courses may have prerequisites that you must also successfully complete. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.
Program fees are established by the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR). A program fee of $1600 ($400 per semester in students' Junior and Senior years) has been approved for this program.