San Diego Dental Hygiene School Options
Aspiring dental hygienists will want to look for a school with an accredited program that meets state licensing standards. In the San Diego area, there is only one not-for-profit institution that offers this training, and it is just a 12-minute drive from downtown. The school offers an associate's degree, which is the most common level of training for dental hygienists. This article gives a little information on the school and also includes a table that allows individuals to access important information at a glance.
- Southwestern College offers an associate's degree program in dental hygiene that's accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. This school is about 11 miles from downtown.
School Statistics
The following table contains important facts that prospective students will need to know about Southwestern College, including information on size and costs. Individuals can use this knowledge to help them in comparing their education options.
| Southwestern College | |
|---|---|
| School Type | 2-year, public |
| Total Enrollment (2021) | 15,985* |
| Campus Setting | Large suburb |
| Tuition & Fees (2022-2023) | $1,342 in-state $9,490 out-of-state* |
| % of First-Year Students Receiving Some Form of Financial Aid (2020-2021) | 85%* |
| Acceptance Rate (2021) | N/A - Open admissions |
| Retention Rate (2020-2021) | 70% for full-time students 41% for part-time students* |
| Graduation Rate (for those who began their studies in 2018) | 32% (10% transfer-out rate)* |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
Southwestern College
Southwestern College offers a variety of associate's degree programs, as well as certificates in academic and vocational fields. A number of continuing education and non-credit courses for working adults are available as well. The school's 2-year dental hygiene program is offered at its Higher Education Center in National City.
Associate in Science in Dental Hygiene
Prospective applicants to Southwestern's dental hygiene program must complete 35 credits of prerequisite coursework, including classes in human anatomy, microbiology and nutrition. They must also demonstrate reading and math proficiency through assessment testing or relevant coursework. After gaining admission to the program, students need to earn CPR certification; immunizations and a physical exam are required as well.
Students in this program learn about preventative dental care, oral wellness, oral health assessments, dental health education and more. Practical courses cover basic dental procedures, such as taking X-rays, removing stains and deposits from teeth and promoting oral health. Southwestern College has a dental hygiene clinic where students can practice in a clinical setting under the supervision of licensed dentists. Upon completing the program, students can pursue a dental hygienist license; they may also transfer to a 4-year university to continue their studies.
