By becoming a dental hygienist, you choose a career that offers independence, security, and challenge, with an emphasis on prevention of disease and increased care for the demands of an aging population.

Did you know there are cases in which an untreated toothache has led to death? Dental Hygienists perform preventative and therapeutic services, but do you understand how vital oral health is to the holistic wellness of the body? We know we need to brush, floss and see a dental hygienist regularly. But did you know the projected increase in demand for dental hygienists is projected to grow an astonishing 33% in the next several years?

It takes the typical student two years to complete the pre-requisite courses necessary for admission to professional school. Professional school typically takes two more years resulting in a bachelor’s degree issued by the professional school.

Sample plan of study

Year 1

Year 2

ELECTIVES** 12-hour series/electives 12 hrs
*CHEM 121: Introductory Chemistry is required for students who did not take chemistry in high school; students with ACT scores less than 21 in math are recommended to take MATH 142: College Algebra prior to taking CHEM 131/131L
**Students aiming for admission to UNMC Dental Hygiene must elect a 12-hour series in one specific area of study, i.e. Psychology, Family Consumer Science, History or English. All courses in the 12-hour series must have the same prefix. For example: PSYC 131, PSYC 243, PSYC 251 and PSYC 254 or FCS 247, FCS 139, FCS 233 and FCS 320

PLEASE NOTE: This is for informational purposes only. For class schedules & for courses required for admission into specific dental hygiene programs, please see an advisor and your prospective professional school website.

2022-2023 Catalog