Prepare for a Career in Dental Hygiene with an Associate Degree
- CheckmarkFlexible class formats
- CheckmarkReal patient care in our on-campus Dental Hygiene Clinic
- CheckmarkPrepare for licensure and career success
Train in a real dental hygiene clinic
Build your skills through supervised clinical rotations and provide care to real patients in our on-campus Dental Hygiene Clinic.
Learn from experienced dental professionals
Our faculty bring real-world experience into the classroom to support you as you prepare for your career.
Flexible scheduling options
Day and evening classes available in on-campus and hybrid formats. Complete your degree in as few as 24 months part time.1
1 Additional time is required to complete prerequisite courses
Hands-on training in our Dental Hygiene Clinic
Gain real-world experience by working directly with patients in our on-campus Dental Hygiene Clinic — helping improve oral health one visit at a time.
Under the supervision of licensed faculty, you’ll:
- Perform cleanings and preventative treatments
- Provide oral health education
- Support community members with accessible dental care
- Take X-rays and conduct screenings
You’ll also participate in community rotations across the Greater Hartford area, working in settings like health centers, schools, and senior care facilities.
“I enjoy teaching older adults about their oral health and watching their eyes light up when they learn something interesting.”
High-demand careers in dental hygiene
Dental hygienists are in strong demand, with competitive salaries and steady job growth. As the need for preventative oral care continues to rise, trained professionals are needed to support patients and communities.
Projected annual job openings for dental hygienists nationwide over the next decade.2
Average annual salary for dental hygienists in CT — higher than the national average.3
2 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025
3 CT Department of Labor, 2023
A curriculum designed to prepare you for licensure and real-world practice
At Goodwin, you won’t just learn the science of dental hygiene — you’ll practice it. Our program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training, helping you build the confidence and skills needed to succeed in the field. You’ll also be prepared to sit for the National Board exams and pursue dental hygienist licensure.
Goodwin Dental Hygiene graduates achieved a 91% licensure pass rate in 2024, according to our 2025-2026 Institutional Profile
Coursework includes:
| Course code | Course name |
|---|---|
| DHP 102 | Periodontology |
| DHP 104 | Head and Neck Anatomy and Embryology |
| DHP 106 | Pharmacology and Pain Management |
Invest in yourself
We believe a quality education should be within reach. Our financial aid team works one-on-one with every student to help make it happen. Goodwin University was ranked the #3 most affordable university in Connecticut for associate degrees.4
Financial aid options include:
- Grants and scholarships
- Federal and state student loans
- Work-study opportunities
- Dedicated advisors who build a plan around your budget
4 Affordable Degree Guide, 2025
“The Dental Hygiene program has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life. Goodwin has provided me with the necessary tools to pursue a rewarding career in dental hygiene.”
Named #1 college for women in CT
Goodwin University was named the #1 college for women in Connecticut by Newsweek, recognizing our commitment to access, support, and career-focused education.
Accredited Dental Hygiene program
The Dental Hygiene program at Goodwin University is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), ensuring a high standard of education and preparation for licensure.
Ready to get started?
We’re ready when you are.
With flexible scheduling, hands-on training in our on-campus clinic, and a clear path to licensure, you’ll be ready to start a career helping patients maintain healthy, confident smiles.
Or call us at 800-889-3282
