University of New England

Degree Programs in Dental Hygiene

The University of New England offers both associate and bachelor degrees in dental hygiene on the Westbrook College Campus. In their clinical coursework students work under the close supervision of experienced faculty in the on-site dental hygiene clinic providing direct dental health care to diverse patients.

Associate Degree
The associate degree fully prepares students to take the licensure exams to become a registered dental hygienist. It also prepares students for the bachelor of science program. Community affiliations and additional clinical experiences are gained in area schools, nursing homes, community agencies, and in private practices to enrich learning.  Dental hygiene students observe dentists in preventive, periodontic, and other specialty areas of dentistry while in the program. Curriculum for Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene.

Bachelor of Science
The Bachelor of Science program is intended for students already holding the Dental Hygiene-Associate Degree. 

In their clinical coursework students continue to work under the close supervision of experienced faculty in the on-site dental hygiene clinic providing direct dental health care to diverse patients. The bachelor of science program advances education in dental hygiene skills and prepares students for a broader range of careers in dental hygiene, community health, administration, research, or teaching.  Internships and additional clinical experiences are gained in area schools, nursing homes, community agencies, and in private practices.

The bachelor of science degree program builds upon the knowledge obtained at the associate level with core curriculum courses in the arts and sciences and upper division courses in dental hygiene, management, health care, science or psychology. In addition, students have the opportunity to engage in the College of Health Professions' innovative Integrated, Interdisciplinary Health and Healing Initiative. This program is designed to prepare students to meet the challenge of the changing health care delivery system and to establish a foundation for graduate study.  Curriculum for Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene.