Best Online Dental Assistant to Dental Hygienist Bridge Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

An online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program is designed to build on your existing knowledge and experience as a dental assistant. These programs typically lead to an associate degree in dental hygiene and prepare students for state licensure exams.

Coursework includes subjects such as oral anatomy, periodontology, radiography, pharmacology, and patient care. Students also complete hands-on clinical training at approved local sites, even when enrolled in online programs. This hybrid format balances convenience with essential hands-on experience.

In addition to clinical skills, programs focus on communication, ethics, and preventive care strategies. You’ll learn how to educate patients, conduct cleanings, and identify oral health issues. These skills are vital for independent patient care roles.

Expect flexible scheduling, online lectures, and digital resources, allowing you to study while continuing to work. Some programs offer part-time options, making them ideal for working professionals seeking career advancement without stepping away from their current jobs.

Where can I work with an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

Graduates of an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program typically find employment in a variety of healthcare settings. Most commonly, they work in private dental practices, providing preventive care and assisting dentists with patient treatment and education. They may also be employed in:

• Public health clinics
• School-based dental health programs
• Hospitals and long-term care facilities

These professionals can also pursue roles in specialized areas like periodontics or pediatric dentistry, where their advanced training and clinical skills are highly valued. Some dental hygienists work in research, sales, or education, particularly if they continue their education.

Opportunities may include:

• Dental product companies
• Community health outreach programs
• Colleges and vocational schools teaching dental hygiene courses

How much can I make with an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

Graduates of a dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program can significantly increase their earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for dental hygienists was $94,260 as of May 2023, with the top 10% earning over $107,000. In contrast, dental assistants earned a median wage of about $47,300, showing the financial benefit of advancing into a hygienist role.

Earnings can vary based on location, experience, and workplace setting. For example:

• Dental hygienists in physicians’ offices earn an average of $84,720 annually.
• Those working in dentists’ offices typically make around $94,750 per year.
• Hygienists employed in educational services or public health may earn slightly less but often receive additional benefits.

Completing a bridge program not only expands your career options but also puts you in a higher salary bracket with long-term earning growth potential.

List of the Best Online Dental Assistant to Dental Hygienist Bridge Programs for 2025

1. Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers a flexible online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (Post-Licensure) program designed for licensed dental hygienists who have completed an associate degree or certificate from an accredited program. The curriculum prepares students for expanded career paths in public health, education, research, and healthcare leadership.

Students can complete the program entirely online or in a hybrid format, with options for full-time or part-time study. Qualified students may also pursue a linked bachelor’s-to-master’s pathway to accelerate graduate education.

• Program Length: 1 to 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Post-licensure (for licensed dental hygienists); optional bachelor’s-to-master’s linked program
• Estimated Total Cost: $16,080 (Virginia residents); $26,640 (non-Virginia residents/online students)
• Required Credits to Graduate: Approximately 60 upper-division credits
• Accreditation: Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA); institutionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) offers the only online Dental Hygiene Bridge (AS to MS) program in the nation. Designed for working dental hygienists with an associate degree, this program allows students to advance directly into a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene without first earning a bachelor’s degree.

The curriculum focuses on public health, education, and research, with options to specialize in education or public health. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in healthcare, policy, and academia.

• Program Length: 2 to 2.5 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: Education Concentration; Public Health Concentration
• Estimated Total Cost: $65,340
• Required Credits to Graduate: 54 total credits
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

3. Ferris State University

Ferris State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene Completion Program designed for licensed dental hygienists who already hold an associate degree. The program enhances students' skills in research, critical thinking, leadership, and evidence-based practice.

With a flexible online format, it prepares graduates for advanced roles in education, public health, administration, and advocacy. The curriculum supports professional growth and aligns with the evolving needs of the dental hygiene field.

• Program Length: 1 to 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: No specific tracks or concentrations. This is a general completion program.
• Estimated Total Cost: $33,780
• Required Credits to Graduate: 121 to 122 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)

4. Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University’s online Dental Hygiene Degree Completion Program is designed for licensed dental hygienists, students currently enrolled in dental hygiene school, or those on a waitlist. This flexible, fully online program allows students to complete their bachelor’s degree without campus visits or clinical requirements.

Students can transfer up to 90 credits and may qualify for up to 26 nontraditional credits based on state licensure. The program typically takes about two years to complete and is ideal for working professionals seeking career advancement.

• Program Length: About 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: No specific tracks or concentrations. This is a general completion program designed to advance licensed dental hygienists with an associate degree to a full B.S. in Dental Hygiene.
• Estimated Total Cost: Approximately $11,688
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 credits
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)

5. Texas Woman’s University (TWU)

Texas Woman’s University offers a fully online RDH-to-BSDH degree completion program designed for registered dental hygienists with an associate degree from a CODA-accredited program. This flexible pathway allows practicing professionals or students in the final year of their associate program to earn a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene entirely online.

TWU also offers a dual-enrollment option, enabling students to complete both an associate and bachelor’s degree simultaneously through a community college partnership. The program is ideal for those seeking to advance their careers while balancing work, education, and personal responsibilities.

• Program Length: 1 to 2 years
• Tracks/Concentrations: No formal concentrations; general RDH-to-BSDH degree completion.
• Estimated Total Cost: Approximately $11,000 to $13,000
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120 total credits
• Accreditation: CODA and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

How long does it take to complete an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

An online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program typically takes 15 to 24 months to complete, depending on the program structure and the student's course load. Some students may finish sooner if they transfer eligible credits or enroll full time, while part-time learners may take up to three years.

These bridge programs are designed for working professionals, so many offer flexible scheduling and asynchronous coursework to accommodate clinical hours or employment. Some schools also allow dual enrollment or accelerated tracks, which can shorten completion time for those considering becoming a dental assistant vs dental hygienist.

How does an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge compare to an on-campus program?

An online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program offers more flexibility than a traditional on-campus program, making it ideal for working professionals. Online students can often complete lectures and assignments on their own schedule, and many programs are designed to accommodate part-time or full-time work. This flexibility is similar to other short-term healthcare training options, such as a 4-week online medical assistant certification, which also appeals to students balancing education with job responsibilities.

However, clinical training is still required and typically must be completed in person, either at an affiliated site or a local partner facility. While on-campus programs provide more direct access to faculty, labs, and hands-on practice, online bridge programs offer comparable academic content and the same pathway to licensure—just with greater convenience and accessibility.

What is the average cost of an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

The average cost of an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program typically ranges from $10,000 to $35,000 in total tuition. This cost varies depending on factors such as whether the school is public or private, in-state or out-of-state tuition rates, and whether fees for clinical components are included.

Just as with a cyber security bootcamp online, where tuition reflects both instruction and practical training, these bridge programs combine academic coursework with required clinical experience that influences overall cost.

Some programs charge by credit hour, with rates between $275 and $500 per credit, and most programs require 30 to 36 credits to graduate. Students may also need to budget separately for textbooks, lab fees, background checks, and licensure exam costs.

While these programs represent a financial investment, they are significantly more affordable than traditional dental education. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average dental school debt for dentists is nearly $300,000—a much higher figure than what students typically incur in dental hygiene bridge programs.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

Students enrolling in an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program have several financial aid options to help cover tuition and related costs. Just as learners in a jewelry design and repair online school may explore scholarships, grants, or flexible payment plans, dental hygiene students can access multiple funding pathways to make education more affordable:

• Federal Financial Aid: Eligible students can apply for grants, loans, and work-study programs by submitting the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
• State Grants and Scholarships: Many states offer grants and need-based scholarships to residents attending accredited programs, including online ones.
• Institutional Aid: Colleges may provide their own scholarships, tuition discounts, or payment plans specifically for dental hygiene students or adult learners.
• Professional and Association Scholarships: Organizations like the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) and state dental hygiene associations offer scholarships and grants for those pursuing further education in the field.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Dental assistants currently employed may receive tuition reimbursement or sponsorship from their employer to advance their credentials.
• Military and Veteran Benefits: Active-duty service members, veterans, and eligible family members may use GI Bill® benefits or military tuition assistance.

Students should also explore resources similar to those available through medical assistant online schools financial aid programs, which often include a wide range of federal and institutional support for healthcare-related training. It’s important to check with the school’s financial aid office for the most accurate and comprehensive aid opportunities.

According to the chart below, the most common ways students finance their dental education include federal student loans (66%) and support from family and friends (19%). Understanding these options can help prospective students plan ahead and take advantage of available resources when enrolling in a program.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

Prerequisites for enrolling in an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program typically include a combination of education, certification, and healthcare-related experience. Much like applicants pursuing an MSN forensic nursing online degree must meet specialized entry criteria, dental hygiene bridge students are expected to show prior training and readiness for advanced study. While exact requirements may vary by school, most programs expect applicants to meet the following criteria:

• Current Dental Assisting Experience or Credentials: Most programs require applicants to be Certified Dental Assistants (CDA) or Registered Dental Assistants (RDA), often with 1 to 2 years of documented work experience in the field.
• Accredited Associate Degree or Certificate: Applicants must have completed a CODA-accredited dental assisting program or hold an associate degree in dental assisting.
• General Education Coursework: Completion of certain college-level prerequisites is often required, including anatomy and physiology, English composition, as well as psychology,
• Minimum GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA, usually 2.5 to 3.0, may be required for consideration.
• CPR Certification: Proof of current Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR certification is often needed.
• Immunizations and Background Check: Students may need to provide up-to-date immunization records, undergo a background check, and meet health screening requirements before clinical placement.

Much like the fastest online medical billing and coding certificate programs, which streamline entry into healthcare support roles, bridge programs aim to build on existing experience while offering accelerated and flexible pathways to career advancement. Be sure to review each school’s specific admissions criteria, as requirements may differ by institution.

What courses are typically in an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

An online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program typically blends general education courses with advanced dental hygiene coursework and clinical components. Much like online gunsmith courses, which combine technical theory with hands-on application, these bridge programs are structured to balance academic learning with practical skills. While course titles may vary by institution, most programs include the following:

Core Dental Hygiene Courses

• Dental Radiology
• Periodontology
• Oral Pathology
• Dental Materials
• Pharmacology for the Dental Hygienist
• Pain Control and Local Anesthesia
• Head and Neck Anatomy
• Clinical Dental Hygiene I, II, and III

General Education and Science Prerequisites

• Anatomy and Physiology I and II
• Microbiology
• General or Organic Chemistry
• Nutrition
• Psychology or Sociology
• English Composition
• Public Speaking or Communication

Public Health and Research

• Community Dental Health
• Dental Hygiene Theory
• Ethics and Law in Dental Hygiene
• Evidence-Based Practice or Dental Hygiene Research

Capstone or Practicum

• Senior Capstone Project
• Clinical Internship or Externship (may require in-person participation)

Bridge programs are designed to build on prior dental assisting knowledge and prepare students for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and licensure.

This progression is a typical path in the field. According to Zippia, 85% of dental hygienists majored in dental assisting.

What types of specializations are available in online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge programs?

While most online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge programs focus on general dental hygiene practice, some offer electives or tracks that allow students to develop specialized knowledge in particular areas of the field. Common specializations or focus areas include:

• Public or Community Health Dentistry: Focuses on promoting oral health in underserved communities through prevention, outreach, and education.
• Education and Teaching: Prepares students to teach dental hygiene in academic or clinical training settings, including curriculum design and instructional methods.
• Pediatric Dentistry: Emphasizes dental care for children and adolescents, covering behavioral management and age-specific treatment strategies.
• Geriatric or Special Needs Care: Trains students to treat elderly or medically complex patients with sensitivity to physical and cognitive limitations.
• Periodontics: Provides advanced training in the prevention and treatment of gum disease, including periodontal therapy and maintenance.
• Dental Hygiene Administration or Business: Offers skills for managing or operating dental practices, including leadership, finance, and healthcare regulations.

Not all programs offer formal “tracks,” but students can often tailor their experience through elective courses, research projects, or clinical placements in their area of interest.

For those comparing career options, it’s also important to understand the difference between dental assistant and medical assistant, as the bridge program is specifically designed for those seeking advancement in dental care.

Dental assistants support dentists with clinical and administrative tasks, while medical assistants work in broader healthcare settings, often assisting with patient exams, medications, and office procedures. The bridge program focuses solely on transitioning from dental assisting to the licensed role of dental hygienist.

How to choose the best online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

When choosing the best online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program, consider the following key factors to ensure the program aligns with your educational goals, schedule, and budget:

• Accreditation: Make sure the program is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This ensures the program meets professional standards and qualifies you for licensure.
• Program Format: Look for flexible online formats, especially if you are working. Some programs are 100% online with local clinical placements, while others may require limited on-campus labs.
• Admission Requirements: Check whether your existing credentials (e.g., Dental Assisting National Board certification or CODA-accredited associate degree) meet the prerequisites.
• Clinical Experience Options: Ensure the program provides or helps arrange clinical experiences in your area to fulfill hands-on training requirements.
• Length and Credit Transfer: Compare program lengths (typically 18–36 months) and see if previously earned credits or work experience can be transferred to shorten the timeline.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Weigh total tuition and fees against your budget. While affordability is important, balance it with quality. For reference, some students search for the cheapest online medical assistant program as a starting point when exploring affordable healthcare education pathways.
• Reputation and Outcomes: Research graduation rates, licensure exam pass rates, and job placement support. Programs with strong outcomes may offer better long-term value.
• Support Services: Consider the availability of academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling to support your success during and after the program.

What career paths are available for graduates of online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge programs?

Graduates of online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge programs can pursue a variety of roles in clinical, educational, public health, and administrative settings. Common career paths include:

• Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH): Provide preventive oral care, patient education, and support for dentists in private practices, clinics, and community health centers.
• Public Health Dental Hygienist: Work in schools, public clinics, or nonprofit organizations to promote oral health, conduct screenings, and provide care to underserved populations.
• Dental Hygiene Educator: Teach in dental hygiene or dental assisting programs at community colleges or universities (often requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree).
• Clinical Dental Hygiene Specialist: Focus on advanced clinical roles in periodontal therapy, pediatric hygiene, or geriatric care.
• Dental Office Manager or Administrator: Use both clinical and administrative experience to manage operations in dental practices or group settings.
• Sales or Product Representative: Represent dental product companies by educating providers and promoting oral health equipment and supplies.
• Research Assistant or Coordinator: Assist in clinical studies related to oral health, often within academic institutions or public health settings.
• Continuing Education and Advanced Degrees: Many RDHs pursue master’s degrees in dental hygiene, public health, education, or health studies, leading to roles in leadership, advocacy, or academia.

Most dental hygienists work in the private sector, as illustrated in the chart below:

What is the job market for graduates with an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program?

The job market for graduates of an online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge program is strong and growing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of dental hygienists is projected to grow 7% from 2022 to 2032—faster than the average for all occupations.

This demand is fueled by increased awareness of oral health, expanded access to dental care, and a growing population of older adults in need of preventive services.

Graduates can find job opportunities in:

• Private dental offices: The most common workplace, offering full- or part-time roles.
• Community health clinics: Often serve underserved populations and offer steady employment.
• Schools or public health programs: Focused on education and preventative outreach.
• Group practices and dental chains: Larger networks with potential for advancement and benefits.

With an online bridge program, working dental assistants can upskill without leaving their current job. They enter a field with solid job stability and a median annual wage of $94,260 (BLS, 2025).

Are these bridge programs accredited and state-approved?

Accreditation plays a pivotal role in ensuring that online dental assistant to dental hygienist bridge programs meet rigorous educational and clinical standards. Prospective students should verify that the program is recognized by relevant dental and higher education authorities, as this guarantees that both coursework and clinical training components comply with state licensure requirements. Confirming accreditation also supports a smoother transition into professional practice by ensuring that program curricula adhere to industry standards and evolving healthcare regulations. Additionally, comparing similar advanced online programs, such as PharmD degree online, can offer further insights into quality assurance measures and comprehensive support for career advancement in healthcare.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Dental Assistant to Dental Hygienist Bridge Programs

Other Things You Need to Know About Online Dental Assistant to Dental Hygienist Bridge Programs

What is the fastest you can become a dental hygienist?

The fastest way to become a dental hygienist is by completing an accelerated associate degree program, which typically takes 18 to 24 months. These programs are often offered by community colleges or technical schools and prepare students to take the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and obtain state licensure.

To speed up the process, students often:

• Enroll full-time and take summer classes
• Transfer prior coursework or apply healthcare experience (such as dental assisting)
• Choose schools that offer year-round or fast-track options

While bachelor’s degrees provide more opportunities for advancement, an associate degree is the quickest route to entering the field.

What is the highest-paying dental assistant job?

The highest-paying dental assistant role per recent U.S. data is that of a Dental Officer, with an average annual salary of approximately $88,980 and an hourly wage of around $42.78, which is significantly higher than the national dental assistant average of roughly $37,730 per year.

Specialization, certification (such as CDA or EFDA), geographic location, and expanded skill sets are key factors that boost earning potential in dental assisting. Working in high-demand metropolitan areas or federal clinics can also lead to higher compensation.

From personal accounts on Reddit, some specialized assistants report wages around $30–$36 or more per hour in fields like orthodontics or oral surgery, particularly in states where expanded-function certification is permitted.

What can a hygienist do that a dental assistant can't?

A dental hygienist has a broader scope of practice than a dental assistant, particularly in preventive care and patient education. Hygienists play a more clinical and autonomous role focused on patient care and prevention, while dental assistants typically support the dentist during procedures and handle administrative or preparatory tasks.

Do you need to be licensed to work as a dental hygienist after completing a bridge program?

Yes, you need a license to work as a dental hygienist after a bridge program. This includes graduating from a CODA-accredited program, passing the national and clinical board exams, and meeting your state’s specific licensure requirements.