Dental Assistant to Dental Hygienist
Your credential ladder
Use your chairside experience to enter a dental hygiene program and double your earning power.
The payoff
That's a potential +$42,000 a year after 2 years. Figures are national medians — your state and employer will vary.
How this pathway works
- 1
Map what your DA already counts for
Add your certifications, courses, and experience once — we show you exactly which admission requirements you already meet.
- 2
Compare programs that fit
See RDH programs side by side — prerequisites, entrance exams, tuition, and timelines — instead of digging through school websites.
- 3
Track your admission checklist
Every remaining requirement (TEAS, prerequisite courses, references, applications) becomes a checklist item you can finish one by one.
- 4
Apply and get accepted
When your checklist is green, you apply with everything schools ask for — no surprises, no missed requirements.
Schools where you can finish this pathway
Common questions
How long does the DA to RDH pathway take?
Most students complete this pathway in about 2 years, depending on prerequisites already met and whether you study full- or part-time.
Do I need my DA credential first?
Yes — this route is built for people who already hold a DA credential (or are finishing one). Your experience and coursework count toward admission requirements.
How much more can I earn after finishing?
Nationally, the median jump is from about $45,000 to $87,000 a year. Pay varies by state, employer, and shift.
Which schools offer this pathway?
Dozens of accredited institutions across the US offer the destination program, including Albany State University, Allegany College of Maryland, All-State Career School.
Is TransitionU free to use?
Yes — mapping your credentials, comparing programs, and tracking your admission checklist are free for students.