West's dental hygiene program is among the most respected in the country. 100% of our dental hygiene graduates successfully pass the State licensing exam. We currently offer a 2-year, full-time Associates Degree in Dental Hygiene. Dental Hygienists provide primary care to patients to maintain their oral health and prevent oral disease. Dental Hygienists enjoy excellent job prospects for the foreseeable future, with an average of 1,230 job openings per year expected in California through 2016 (Source EDD/LMID, Occupational Employment Survey 2008). Dental Hygienists work in general and specialty dental offices that offer many different types of preventative services including radiology, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, orthodontics, and oral surgery. Other career options include education, sales, administration, and consulting. Dental Hygienists earn an excellent income, with median, full-time wages reaching almost $80,000 per year often with medical benefits, paid vacation and sick leave.