So many teeth, so little time. Sure, a hygienist cleans them – but there’s so much more. Play a vital role in patient health.
dental student working on a patient

Ready to Learn More?

If you’d like to learn more about the Dental Hygienist program, we’d love to talk with you.

We’re here to answer any questions and guide you through our application process step-by-step.

Send us your contact information, and we’ll help you get started right away!

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Dental Hygienist
Program Number: 105081
Your Degree: Associate Degree
Estimated Time to Complete: 70 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years
Delivery Method: Some Online/Some In Person
Area of Study: Health Sciences
Estimated Program Cost: $16,381.38
Use our Net Price Calculator to estimate your tuition costs.
financial aid icon Financial Aid Available
  • Program Overview

    The two-year Dental Hygienist associate degree program at Madison College prepares you to work side by side with dentists.

    The dental hygienist inspects the mouth, administers local anesthesia and chemotherapeutic agents, removes stains and deposits from teeth, applies preventive agents, prepares clinical and diagnostic tests, completes dental x-rays and performs many other services related to mouth care. Dental hygienists also counsel patients about preventive measures such as nutrition, oral hygiene, and dental care.

    Top Career Training

    The Dental Hygienist Program is widely respected by leading dentists throughout Madison, Wisconsin. Students develop top skills from their hands-on experience at our on-campus dental clinic, which serves real patients from the area. Dental hygiene graduates work for many top dental organizations.

    Strong Job Opportunities

    In addition to dental technician positions, Madison College graduates work as dental hygienist instructors, dental lab technicians, public school hygienists and more.

    Dental Hygienist graduates are required to successfully complete comprehensive written and clinical examinations given under the direction of the State of Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board, the American Dental Association's Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations, and Central Regional Dental Testing Services, Inc.

    Please note: Upon admission to the Dental Hygienist program, you will be required to complete a background check and multiple immunization requirements, and provide documentation of current Health Care Provider CPR certification.

    Program Details

    Wisconsin law requires background checks for persons who provide care for others or have access to people who receive care. This law applies to students in many School of Health Sciences programs. Please review the Caregiver Background Check information on the School of Health Sciences Forms and Policies.

    Students in the Dental Hygienist program must attend full time. 

    Classes are offered Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 3:20 pm.

    Dental Hygienist classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.

    YOUR ADVANTAGES AT MADISON COLLEGE

    • Study with award-winning Madison College faculty and receive personalized attention and real-world training.
    • Get vital hands-on experience, working with patients in our on-campus dental clinic located in Madison College’s state-of-the-art Health Education Center at the Truax campus.
    • Our graduates have an exceptionally high first-time pass rate on the required Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS), a state requirement to practice dental hygiene.

    Careers

    Graduates of the Dental Hygienist program are able to find employment as the following:

    • Dental Hygienist

    With additional education and/or work experience, dental hygiene graduates also may find employment as:

    • Dental Hygiene Instructor
    • Public Health Hygienist
    • Dental Laboratory Technician
    • Dental Sales Representative
    • Member of Dental Examining Board
    • Public School Hygienist
    • Dental Hygiene Administrator in hospital setting

    Accreditation

    The Madison College Dental Hygienist program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). 

    The Dental Hygiene Program is seeking comments from the public such as faculty, students, program administrators, dental-related organizations, patients, and consumers as part of its preparation for the periodic accreditation review by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).

    The CODA site visit is scheduled for September 30 - October 1, 2025. It will involve a detailed review of the program to ensure continued compliance with accreditation standards. In accordance with the guidelines, all comments must be submitted to CODA no later than 60 days in advance of the scheduled visit; consequently, the deadline for submission is August 1, 2025. Please see the CODA posting form (PDF) for third-party comments.

    High Demand Program

    The current trend is 3 years between acceptance and the start of core program classes.

    Hoping to start college sooner?

    Check out our other health programs or get in touch with recruitment for individualized help. 

  • Program Courses

    Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester. 

    Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.

    Pre-Dental Hygienist Courses
    10-806-177
    Gen Anatomy & Physiology
    This course examines basic concepts of human anatomy and physiology as they relate to health sciences. Using a body systems approach, the course emphasizes the interrelationships between structure and function at the gross and microscopic levels of organization, of the entire human body. It is intended to prepare health care professionals who need to apply basic concepts of whole body anatomy and physiology to informed decision-making and professional communication with colleagues and patients.
    4 credits
    10-806-186
    Intro to Biochemistry
    Provides students with skills and knowledge of organic and biological chemistry. Emphasis is placed on recognizing the structure, physical properties and chemical reactions of organic molecules, body fluids, and solutions. Additional emphasis is placed on biological functions and reactions, and their relationships to enzymes, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and DNA.
    4 credits
    10-806-197
    Microbiology-University Medical
    Examines microbial structure, metabolism, genetics, growth and the relationship between humans and microbes. Addresses disease production, epidemiology, host defense mechanisms and the medical impact of microbes. Presents the role of microbes in the environment, industry, and biotechnology. Includes laboratory practices and procedures.
    4 credits
    Summer Semester
    The following must be taken prior to fall/first semester:
    10-508-101
    Dental Health Safety
    Prepares dental auxiliary students to respond proactively to dental emergencies, control infection, prevent disease, adhere to OSHA Standards, and safely manage hazardous materials. Students also take patient vital signs and collect patient medica/dental histories. CPR certification is prerequisite: students will be required to show proof of certification before beginning the course.
    1 credit
    First Semester
    10-508-102
    Oral Anatomy, Embry, Histology
    Prepares Dental Hygienist students to apply detailed knowledge about oral anatomy to planning, implementation, assessment, and evaluation of patient care. Students identify distinguishing characteristics of normal and abnormal dental, head, and neck anatomy and its relationship to tooth development, eruption, and health.
    4 credits
    10-508-103
    Dental Radiography
    Prepares dental auxiliary students to operate x-ray units and expose bitewing, periapical, extra oral, and occlusal radiographs. Emphasis is placed on protection against x-ray hazards. Students also process, mount, and evaluate radiographs for diagnostic value. In this course students demonstrate competency on a mannequin. Additionally, students expose bitewing radiographs on a peer, role-play patient. Students gain further experience in exposing radiographs on patients in the clinical portion of their program. This course also provides the background in radiographic theory required for students to make informed decisions and adjustments.
    2 credits
    10-508-105
    Dental Hygiene Process 1
    Introduces Dental Hygiene students to the basic technical/clinical skills required of practicing Dental Hygienists include the use of basic dental equipment, examination of patients, and procedures within the dental unit. Under the direct supervision of an instructors, students integrate hands-on skills with entry-level critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The course also reinforces the application of Dental Health Safety skills.
    4 credits
    Second Semester
    10-508-106
    Dental Hygiene Process 2
    Clinical course builds on and expands technical/clinical skills student dental hygienists began developing in Dental Hygiene Process 1. Under direct supervision of an instructor, students apply patient care assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation skills to provide comprehensive care for calculus case type 1 and 2 patients and perio case patients. Introduces application of fluoride and desensitizing agents, whole mouth assessments, comprehensive periodontal exams, application of sealants, and patient classification. Begin performing removal of supragingival stain, dental plaque, calcified accretions, and deposits. Gain further experience in exposing radiographs on patients.
    4 credits
    10-508-108
    Periodontology
    This course prepares student dental hygienists to assess the periodontal health of patients, plan prevention and treatment of periodontal disease, and to evaluate the effectiveness of periodontal treatment plans. Emphasis is placed on the recognition of the signs and causes of periodontal disease and on selection of treatment modalities that minimize risk and restore periodontal health.
    3 credits
    10-508-109
    Cariology
    This course focuses on the characteristics and contributing factors of dental decay. Dental Hygiene students help patients minimize caries risk by developing treatment plans, communicating methods to patients, and evaluating treatment results. Prerequisites: satisfactory completion of all first semester, second year Dental Hygiene courses and concurrent enrollment in 10-508-124.
    1 credit
    10-508-110
    Nutrition and Dental Health
    Prepares student dental hygienists to counsel patients about diet and its impact on oral health. Students learn to distinguish between balanced and unbalanced diets and to construct diets that meet the needs of patients with compromised dental/oral health Students also learn to counsel patients about the effect of eating disorders on dental health.
    2 credits
    10-508-113
    Dental Materials
    Prepares dental auxiliary students to handle and prepare dental materials such as liners, bases, cements, amalgam, resin restorative materials, gypsum products, and impression materials. They also learn to take alginate impressions on manikins and clean removable applicances. This course is aligned to serve accepted students of Dental Hygiene and Dental Assistant programs.
    2 credits
    10-809-198
    Introduction to Psychology
    This science of psychology course is a survey of multiple aspects of behavior and mental processes. It provides an overview of topics such as research methods, theoretical perspectives, learning, cognitive processes, motivation, personality, psychological disorders and treatment approaches, physiological factors, social influences, and development.
    3 credits
    10-999-999
    Elective
    1 credit
    Third Semester
    10-508-111
    General and Oral Pathology
    This course prepares the student dental hygienist to determine when to consult, treat or refer clients with various disease, infection or physiological conditions. Students learn to recognize the signs, causes, and implications of common pathological conditions including inflammatory responses, immune disorders, genetic disorders, developmental disorders of tissues and cysts, oral tissue trauma, and neoplasm of the oral cavity.
    3 credits
    10-508-112
    Dental Hygiene Process 3
    This clinical course builds on and expands the technical/clinical skill student dental hygienists developed in Dental Hygiene Process 2. In consultation with the instructor, students apply independent problem-solving skills in the course of providing comprehensive care for calculus case type 1, 2, and 3 patients and perio case type 0, I, II, and III patients. This also introduces root detoxification using hand and ultra-sonic instruments, a selection of dental implant prophylaxis treatment options, and administration of chemotherapeutic agents. Students also adapt care plans in order to accommodate patients with special needs.
    5 credits
    10-508-114
    Dental Pharmacology
    Prepares student dental hygienists to select safe and effective patient premedication and within the scope of dental hygiene practice. Students will also learn to recognize potential pharmacological contraindications for specific patients and to take measures to avoid negative impact or alert other members of the dental team to possible negative impact.
    2 credits
    10-508-118
    Dental Anxiety and Pain Management
    This course prepares the student dental hygienist to work within the scope of dental hygiene practice to manage anxiety and pain for dental patients. Students learn to prepare and administer local anesthesia and nitrous oxide safely. The course also addresses the recommendation of alternative pain control measures.
    2 credits
    10-809-196
    Introduction to Sociology
    Introduces students to the fundamental sociological concepts, including sociological perspectives, research methods, the significance of culture in society, and the socialization process. Other topics include deviance, the impact of groups on behavior, societal inequities, global changes, the role of social institutions, and social stratification.
    3 credits
    Fourth Semester
    10-508-107
    Dental Hygiene Ethics & Profes
    Helps student dental hygienists develop and apply high professional and ethical standards. Students apply the laws that govern the practice of dental hygiene to their work with patients, other members of a dental team and the community. Emphasis is placed on maintaining confidentiality and obtaining informed consent. Students enhance their ability to present a professional appearance.
    1 credit
    10-508-115
    Community Dental Health
    This course prepares the Dental Hygienist student to play a proactive role in improving the dental health of community members of all ages. Students perform and interpret dental health research to determine community dental health needs.
    2 credits
    10-508-117
    Dental Hygiene Process 4
    This clinical course builds on and expands the technical/clinical skills student dental hygienists developed in Dental Hygiene Process 3. With feedback from the instructor, students manage all aspects of cases in the course of providing comprehensive care for calculus case type 0, 1, 2, and 3 patients and for perio case type 0, I, II, and III patients. Emphasizes maximization of clinical efficiency and effectiveness. Prepares student dental hygienists to demonstrate their clinical skills in a formal examination situation.
    4 credits
    10-801-195
    Written Communication
    Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.
    3 credits
    10-801-196
    Oral/Interpersonal Communication
    Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.
    3 credits
    10-809-188
    Developmental Psychology
    Developmental Psychology is the study of human development throughout the lifespan. This course explores developmental theory and research with an emphasis on the interactive nature of the biological, cognitive, and psychosocial changes that affect the individual from conception to death. Application activities and critical thinking skills will enable students to gain an increased knowledge and understanding of themselves and others.
    3 credits
  • How to Apply

    Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!

    If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.

    Apply Now - Limited Seats Available!

    This program has limited capacity and may reach maximum enrollment quickly. Applying to the Pre-Dental Hygienist program early gives you the best chance of securing a spot. 

    To enroll in program courses, students must first meet academic preparedness requirements and complete the declaration process.

    • Program capacity: 44 spots each Fall
    • Estimated Wait Time: Up to 2 year wait time between when students are core ready and when they become eligible to enroll in program classes. This timeline may vary depending on how many students complete the declaration process each semester. 

    Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available. If the program reaches capacity, a waiting list will be used to manage additional qualified applicants.

    Before applying, be sure to: 

    • Review the admission requirements for deadlines, materials, and requirements
    • Review the After You Apply section on this page
    • Make sure you can meet the program’s essential functions safely, reliably and efficiently within the scope of practice. If you need accommodations, contact our Disability Resource Services office.  

    Application Dates

    Fall 2027

    • Application available on October 15, 2026
    • Application completion deadline is December 15, 2026

    Admission Requirements

    1. Admission Application

    The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.

    2. Education Completion

    Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:

    • High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
    • GED/HSED completion
    • College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
      • Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
      • At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
        • The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
        • Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
        • Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript

    All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.

    3. Residency Requirement

    Due to program demand and TCS 10 guidelines, this program is limited to district and non-district state residents.

    Additional Notes 

    Students are required to meet the current admission requirements, academic preparedness requirements, and complete the declaration process. Requirements are subject to change based on updates to accreditation requirements or Madison College program assessment data. 

    Questions?

    Contact Enrollment Services at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.

    apply for admission

    Get Started!

    Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Dental Hygienist career.

    It's Free to Apply

  • After You Apply

    Academic Preparedness Requirements

    This program has academic preparedness requirements that must be completed before beginning core classes. Requirements for this program are listed below and are subject to change. Run a personalized report in your student account to confirm which requirements are complete, which are still outstanding, and how requirements may be satisfied.

    When you’ve completed all academic preparedness requirements, you will submit the declaration form to confirm that you are ready to enter core program classes. These steps are part of the declaration process.

    Student Report

    • Pre-core students admitted prior to Fall 2027: Run your Degree Progress Report in your Student Center in PeopleSoft.
    • Pre-core students admitted for Fall 2027 and later: Academic preparedness requirements will be available in your Academic Progress Report in Workday. Access will be available beginning March 2027.

    Prerequisites

    Algebra (testing, college coursework or bachelor’s degree in a related biological science)

    Testing
    • ACT Math 20+
    • Accuplacer NexGen (Quantitative Reasoning) 241+
    College courses
    • College Mathematics
    • Elementary Algebra with Apps
    • Mathematical Reasoning
    • Applied Math for Chemistry

    Geometry (testing, high school or college coursework)

    Testing
    • Accuplacer NexGen (Advanced Algebra) 250+
    High school course
    • 1 year Geometry
    College course
    • Principles of Geometry

    Chemistry (high school or college coursework)

    High school course
    • 1 year Chemistry with lab
    College course
    • General Chemistry

    Biology (high school or college coursework)

    High school course
    • 1 year Biology with lab
    College course
    • General Anatomy and Physiology

    English and Reading (testing, college coursework or bachelor's degree)

    Testing
    • ACT Reading 19+
    • Accuplacer NexGen (Reading) 261+
    • ACT English 15+
    • Accuplacer NexGen (English) 245+
    College courses
    • English 1
    • Written Communication
    • English 2
    • Intro Reading & Study Skills AND Intro to College Writing

    Course Requirements

    • General Anatomy and Physiology
    • General, Organic and Biological Chemistry
    • Microbiology

    Testing Requirement

    Students must be able to demonstrate academic readiness with one of the following composite test scores. Test score must be within four years (2027-2028 applicants = September 1, 2023 to present). 

    • TEAS-V: Composite score of 58.65+

      OR

    • ACT: Composite score of 20+

    Questions?

    Contact Enrollment Services at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.

  • Transfer Opportunities

    UW System Schools

    The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
    This program-to-program articulation agreement between UW-W and WTCS assures the acceptance of an applied associate degree in an allied health clinical and diagnostic field (see APPENDIX A, 60 to 71 credits) from any WTCS institution, into the UW-W Bachelor of Science-Health and Leadership Studies (HeALS) program (minimum 120 credits). Students transferring under the guidelines of this articulation agreement must: have earned an applied associate degree in an allied health program through WTCS with a grade point average of 2.0 or better (on a 4.0 scale) including coursework from other institutions (if appropriate), and according to UW-W repeat policy.Have applied to and are successfully admitted into UW-W (all UW-W application deadlines apply) beginning fall 2025 and any subsequent terms.

    Wisconsin Private Schools

    Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.
    Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.

    Out-of-State Schools

    Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree.
  • Career Outcomes

    After completing the Dental Hygienist program at Madison Area Technical College, you will be able to:

    • Model dental hygiene professional code of ethics
    • Counsel clients/patients to reduce health risks
    • Provide community oral health services in a variety of settings
    • Manage infection and hazard control
    • Assess data on all aspects of patient/client health using methods consistent with dental hygienist scope of practice and legal principles
    • Formulate a comprehensive dental hygiene care plan in collaboration with the client and other health professionals
    • Provide preventive and therapeutic services that promote oral health according to the needs of the patient/client
    • Evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented client/patient dental hygiene care plan
    • Graduate Summary

      Graduate Report Summary Overview

      202320242025
      Number of Program Graduates354039
      Number of Surveys Sent354039
      Number of Surveys Returned132524
      Percent of Surveys Returned
      Available for Employment132524
      Percent Available for Employment100.0%100.0%100.0%
      Not in Labor Market
      Percent Not in Labor Market0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Available for Employment

      202320242025
      Graduates Employed122524
      Percent of Graduates Employed92.3%100.0%100.0%
      Employed in Related Occupation122424
      Percent Employed in Related Occupation100.0%96.0%100.0%
      Employed in Unrelated Occupation000
      Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Employed - No Response010
      Percent Employed - No Response0.0%4.0%0.0%
      Seeking Employment100
      Percent Seeking Employment7.7%0.0%0.0%
      Reaction To Training at Madison College

      202320242025
      Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4)3.83.63.4
      Number of Satisfaction Responses132524
      Very Satisfied (4)10169
      Percent Very Satisfied76.9%64.0%37.5%
      Satisfied (3)3915
      Percent Satisfied23.1%36.0%62.5%
      Unsatisfied (2)000
      Percent Unsatisfied0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Very Unsatisfied (1)
      Percent Very Unsatisfied0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Primary Reason for Attending Madison College

      202320242025
      Number of Primary Reason Responses132524
      Preparation for Getting a Job91915
      Percent Preparation for Getting a Job69.2%76.0%62.5%
      Career Change445
      Percent Career Change30.8%16.0%20.8%
      Improvement of Existing Skills002
      Percent Improvement of Existing Skills0.0%0.0%8.3%
      Preparation for Further Education012
      Percent Preparation for Further Education0.0%4.0%8.3%
      Personal Interest000
      Percent Personal Interest0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Other010
      Percent Other0.0%4.0%0.0%
      When Employment was Obtained

      202320242025
      Number of When Employment Obtained Responses122424
      Before Enrollment134
      Percent Before Enrollment8.3%12.5%16.7%
      While Attending the College474
      Percent While Attending the College33.3%29.2%16.7%
      After Training at the College71416
      Percent After Training at the College58.3%58.3%66.7%
      Location of Employment (related and unrelated)

      202320242025
      Number of Employment Location Responses122524
      In College District101922
      Percent In College District83.3%76.0%91.7%
      In Wisconsin, Not in District251
      Percent of In Wisconsin16.7%20.0%4.2%
      Outside of Wisconsin000
      Percent Outside Wisconsin0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Employer Location Unknown011
      Percent Location Unknown0.0%4.0%4.2%
      Salary Trend
      Salary Trend202320242025
      Full Time Employment (Related Job)Full Time Salary Count101714
      Average Monthly Wage$6,355$6,786$7,259
      Average Hourly Wage$36.95$39.45$42.20
      Average Work Hours per Week35.736.837.3
      Part Time Employment (Related Job)Part Time Salary Count168
      Average Hourly Wage$50.00$41.00$45.38
      Average Work Hours per Week31.532.031.0
    • Graduate Employers

      Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025
      Employer(s)Job TitleCity*State**Positions
      Access DentalDental HygienistSun Prairie
      Children's Dental CenterDental Hygienist
      Dane DentalDental HygienistMcFarland
      Dentistry For MadisonDental Hygienist
      FCDIRegistered Dental Hygienist
      First Choice Dental GroupDental HygienistVerona
      First Choice Dental GroupDental HygienistSun Prairie
      First Choice Dental GroupDental HygienistStoughton
      First Choice Dental GroupDental Hygienist
      Four Lakes Family DentalDental Hygienist2
      Govani DentalRegistered Dental HygienistOshkosh
      Madison Family Dental AssociatesDental HygienistDeForest
      Mercy Dental MissionsDental Hygienist2
      Midwest DentalRegistered Dental HygienistWisconsin Dells
      Midwest DentalRegistered Dental HygienistPortage
      Nakoma DentalRegistered Dental Hygienist
      River Place DentalDental HygienistMonona
      Scinico Family DentalDental Hygienist
      Smile BrandsRegistered Dental HygienistMiddleton
      Whole Health Family DentistryDental HygienistPewaukee
      Wojtowicz DentalDental HygienistElroy

      * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.

      ** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.

      *** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu

Ready to get started?
Your first step is to apply to Madison College. It's easy and free to apply, so get started today!