Dental Hygiene Program Director Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving world of oral health, the need for competent Dental Hygiene Program Directors has never been greater.

As dental health awareness rises, so too does the demand for skilled leaders capable of shaping, advancing, and safeguarding our dental hygiene education framework.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Dental Hygiene Program Director?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the inner dynamics of dental hygiene education management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Dental Hygiene Program Director job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Dental Hygiene Program Director Duties and Responsibilities

The Dental Hygiene Program Director plays a key role in the education of future dental hygienists.

They oversee the daily operations of the program, design the curriculum, and ensure the program’s compliance with regional and national standards.

The specific duties and responsibilities of a Dental Hygiene Program Director include:

• Developing and implementing dental hygiene curriculum in line with industry standards and regulatory requirements
• Coordinating and overseeing the delivery of course content
• Supervising, mentoring, and evaluating faculty members
• Recruiting, interviewing, and hiring qualified faculty and staff
• Ensuring adherence to the institution’s policies, as well as local, state, and federal regulations
• Planning and managing the program budget to ensure financial stability
• Conducting regular assessments of program objectives and outcomes
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with community healthcare providers for student clinical experiences
• Advising and counselling students on academic and career matters
• Ensuring program readiness for accreditation reviews and audits
• Keeping abreast of current trends and developments in dental hygiene through continuous learning and professional development

 

Dental Hygiene Program Director Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for an experienced Dental Hygiene Program Director to oversee the operation of our dental hygiene program.

The successful candidate will be responsible for curriculum development, faculty recruitment and development, program evaluation, and student admissions.

As the Dental Hygiene Program Director, you are expected to stay updated with the latest trends in dental hygiene education and practice and ensure the program meets the standards of regional and professional accrediting bodies.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the dental hygiene program
• Develop curriculum in line with accreditation standards
• Recruit, mentor, and evaluate faculty members
• Monitor student progress and provide academic advising
• Prepare and manage the program budget
• Maintain relationships with community partners for student internships and job placements
• Ensure program meets the standards of regional and professional accrediting bodies
• Stay updated with the latest trends in dental hygiene education and practice
• Represent the program at university, community, and professional events

 

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Dental Hygiene or related field
• Current licensure as a Dental Hygienist
• Experience in academic administration or teaching in higher education
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Knowledge of dental hygiene accreditation standards
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong computer skills, particularly with education management systems

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Dental Hygiene Program Director
• Work Environment: This role is primarily based in an office setting within an educational institution. Occasional travel may be required for professional events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Dean of Health Sciences.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Dental Hygiene Program Director Do?

Dental Hygiene Program Directors are typically found in educational institutions where they oversee the dental hygiene programs.

Their primary responsibility is to develop and implement curriculum for dental hygiene students.

This includes designing coursework, lecturing, overseeing clinical practice, and evaluating students’ progress.

They also work closely with other faculty members to ensure the program is aligned with the latest industry standards and advancements in dental hygiene practices.

Dental Hygiene Program Directors often oversee admissions to the program, ensuring applicants meet the necessary prerequisites.

They also play a role in student advisement and mentoring.

Additionally, they are responsible for ensuring the program maintains its accreditation by meeting the necessary standards and requirements set by regulatory bodies.

They may also engage in research or community service activities related to dental hygiene, and often represent their institution at professional conferences or meetings.

 

Dental Hygiene Program Director Qualifications and Skills

A Dental Hygiene Program Director must possess a range of skills and qualifications that are essential to successfully manage the program and provide a high level of education to students, such as:

• Comprehensive knowledge of dental hygiene theory, principles, practices, and standards to effectively create and manage curriculum
• Strong leadership abilities to guide and direct faculty and staff
• Superior communication skills for interacting with students, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders
• Experience with course and curriculum development, evaluation, and assessment in dental hygiene education
• Strategic planning skills to develop and implement plans for the program’s future
• Ability to adhere to all regulations, guidelines, and standards in dental hygiene education
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues that may arise within the program
• Strong organizational skills to manage administrative tasks such as budgeting, reporting, and scheduling
• A high degree of professionalism and ethical standards to serve as a role model for students and faculty

 

Dental Hygiene Program Director Experience Requirements

Dental Hygiene Program Directors generally have a comprehensive background in the field of dental hygiene.

This includes a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene or a related field, but most often a master’s degree or higher is required.

A registered dental hygienist license is typically a prerequisite.

This is obtained by first graduating from an accredited dental hygiene program and then passing a national written exam and a state or regional clinical exam.

Directors often have significant clinical experience as dental hygienists, often requiring a minimum of 5 to 7 years.

This provides a solid foundation of practical knowledge and hands-on skills in the field.

Additionally, Dental Hygiene Program Directors often have previous teaching or academic experience, usually of at least 2-3 years.

This demonstrates their ability to effectively communicate and transfer knowledge to students.

For those who aspire to be in a leadership role, experience in program development, curriculum design, or administration is often preferred.

This can be achieved through roles such as department head or lead instructor in dental hygiene education.

Ultimately, the role of a Dental Hygiene Program Director demands a mix of clinical, academic, and leadership experience, ensuring they have the expertise and skills to guide and oversee the dental hygiene program.

 

Dental Hygiene Program Director Education and Training Requirements

A Dental Hygiene Program Director typically requires a master’s degree in dental hygiene, education, public health, or a related field.

They should have a strong background in dental hygiene practices and an understanding of education management.

Most positions require these professionals to have a valid dental hygiene license and previous experience as a dental hygienist.

Apart from this, a Dental Hygiene Program Director should have some years of experience in an educational setting, teaching or designing dental hygiene curriculum.

Some institutions might require them to hold a doctoral degree, especially for positions that involve significant amounts of research or high-level administrative responsibilities.

There are also certain certifications like Certified Dental Educator (CDE) that can add value to a candidate’s profile and indicate their commitment to excellence in dental education.

Having a doctoral degree and/or certification could also demonstrate a candidate’s leadership capabilities and dedication to continuous learning in the field of dental hygiene education.

 

Dental Hygiene Program Director Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Dental Hygiene Program Director is approximately $91,000 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the size and prestige of the educational institution they are employed at.

 

Dental Hygiene Program Director Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Dental Hygiene Program Director need?

A Dental Hygiene Program Director typically needs a minimum of a master’s degree in Dental Hygiene or a related field.

They also require a valid dental hygiene license and a significant number of years of clinical and teaching experience.

Advanced management or leadership training can be beneficial.

 

What skills are necessary for a Dental Hygiene Program Director?

A Dental Hygiene Program Director should have strong leadership and management skills to oversee the program and staff effectively.

They should also possess excellent communication skills for interacting with students, faculty, and other stakeholders.

A deep knowledge of dental hygiene practices, curricula development, and accreditation standards is also crucial.

 

What are the responsibilities of a Dental Hygiene Program Director?

A Dental Hygiene Program Director is responsible for planning, developing, and overseeing the program curriculum in line with accreditation standards.

They manage faculty recruitment, training, and evaluation processes.

Other duties include preparing and managing the program budget, maintaining program accreditation, and ensuring the program meets educational objectives and outcomes.

 

What should you look for in a Dental Hygiene Program Director resume?

Firstly, look for the necessary educational qualifications and a valid dental hygiene license.

Verify their experience in dental hygiene education, clinical practice, and leadership roles.

Additional training in curriculum development, program management, or leadership would be a plus.

Also, consider the candidate’s involvement in professional associations and any contributions to dental hygiene education research or publications.

 

What qualities make a good Dental Hygiene Program Director?

A good Dental Hygiene Program Director is a strong leader who can manage a diverse team and foster a supportive learning environment.

They should be dedicated to the continuous improvement of the program and committed to excellence in dental hygiene education.

Being detail-oriented and organized helps them manage the program effectively.

Good interpersonal skills are also important for effective communication with students, faculty, and other stakeholders.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve explored the intricate and essential role of a Dental Hygiene Program Director.

And guess what?

It’s not just about cleaning teeth.

It’s about shaping the future of dental health, one program at a time.

With our comprehensive Dental Hygiene Program Director job description template and real-world examples, you’re well equipped to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Plunge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to meticulously-crafted job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every program contributes to the broader vision.

Let’s create that future. Together.

How to Become a Dental Hygiene Program Director (Complete Guide)

The Surprising Truth: Jobs With the Lowest Pay – Is Yours One of Them?

Adrenaline Junkies Apply Here: Careers That Are Not for the Faint of Heart

Tech Alert: Careers That AI Will Outperform Humans In

Jobs That Redefine ‘Stressful’: A Look at the Extreme!