These costs should cover the required purchase of dental instruments and supplies, uniforms, lab fees, and transportation to field experience sites. Costs are subject to change without notice. Students should begin planning early for financial aid to meet their educational goals. Employment Trends Excellent and varied career opportunities exist for dental hygiene graduates. The demand for licensed dental hygienists continues to increase in Oregon and throughout much of the United States.
Dental hygienists can elect to practice full time or on a part-time basis.
Earnings of dental hygienists are affected by the type of employer, education and experience of the individual hygienist, as well as on the geographic location. Bilingual graduates with multicultural experience have growing opportunities in the Northwest. The Family and Health Careers Division includes several cooperative education coordinators in the areas of Early Childhood Education, Dental Assisting, Dental Hygiene, Medical Office Assistant and Health Records, Nursing, and Respiratory Care. Prior admission to and enrollment in some programs, including Nursing, may be required. Contact the Cooperative Education Department or the Family and Health Careers Division for additional information.