DENTAL HYGIENE

Dental Hygiene

Associate Degree

Application Window: October 5, 2026 through January 15, 2027
Program Start: Summer A 2027 (May)

This two-year program requires 20 semester hours of general education and 68 semester hours and major field required courses for a total of 88 semester hours. Students will be enrolled in 16-18 credits per semester, attend class 30 hours per week and have 20-30 hours of homework each week.

Indian River State College offers a number of different degrees and certificates leading to professional licensure in the state of Florida. Some professions require both a degree and the successful completion of additional criteria such as licensure exams, field placements, or clinical hours. Student eligibility to apply to sit for the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam (NBDHE) in the State of Florida is defined in F.S., 466.023 and also includes possession of a valid form of identification. Please visit the Florida Department of Health website to ensure your eligibility.

Completion of the dental hygiene program requirements makes you eligible to apply to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Exam (NBDHE) in Florida.

If you are a student who may choose to reside outside of Florida, Indian River State College cannot confirm whether this degree program meets educational requirements for professional licensure/certification in your state. Some states have requirements in addition to the program’s curriculum.  If you wish to take the National Board Dental Hygiene (NBDHE) exam in another state, contact the Board of Dentistry in the state to determine whether this degree will meet their licensure requirements.

Professional Licensure and Certification Disclosure Table for Dental Hygiene

Accreditation
The Indian River State College Dental Hygiene program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at (800) 232-6108 or at 401 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 3300, Chicago IL. 60611. The Commissions web address is https://coda.ada.org/.

Preference for admission will be given to residents that live in the four county service area of Indian River State College: Martin, St. Lucie, Okeechobee, and Indian River counties.

Indian River State College Dental Clinic and Services
The Dental Hygiene program at Indian River State College offer dental services for individuals seeking dental care. Services are available to patients of all ages and are by appointment only. Indian River State College Dental Hygiene students are in training under the direction of experienced and licensed faculty which may result in longer appointment times. Services are offered at reduced prices. For more information or to make an appointment, please contact the Indian River State College Dental Clinic 772-462-7524.

Ready to make a real difference in people’s lives—one smile at a time? Our Associate in Science in Dental Hygiene offers hands-on, career-focused training that will prepare you to become a skilled, confident dental hygienist.

You’ll learn in modern facilities, work directly with patients, and build the expertise to pass your national and state licensure exams with confidence.

Dental hygiene is a healthcare profession focused on prevention—helping patients maintain healthy smiles and improve overall wellness. Through our program, you’ll be qualified to provide oral health services in a wide variety of settings, including private dental practices, public health facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, group homes and the military.

Graduates also find opportunities beyond direct patient care, working as dental clinic managers, public health educators or supervisors within healthcare agencies.

Whether you’re passionate about health, love working with people, or want a meaningful career in a growing field, earning your Dental Hygiene A.S. degree can help you build a bright, rewarding future.

Additional Program Information:

• Click here to register for a mandatory in-person info session
• Dental Hygiene Program Expenses
• Dental Hygiene Program Graduate Outcomes
• Dental Hygiene Program Student Handbook
• Occupational Risks
• Health Science Physical Examination and Immunization Form
• Background Check and Drug Screening Requirements
• Health Sciences Division Handbook
• Post Exposure Protocol
• CPR Training
• Report Accident (Incident) Form
• AG Student Accident Claim Form
• Liability/Accident Insurance Coverage
• Insurance Procedures
• Allied Health Program Overview