Program Director, Dental Hygiene – Sample Job Description
Excelon Associates is seeking an accomplished and student-centered Program Director for a Dental Hygiene Program at a well-established academic institution committed to excellence in allied health education. The Program Director serves as the academic and administrative leader responsible for ensuring program quality, student success, and accreditation compliance while fostering a culture of professionalism and clinical excellence.
This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of dental hygiene education by leading faculty, refining curriculum, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring alignment with industry standards. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in dental hygiene education, experience with CODA accreditation, and a passion for developing the next generation of oral health professionals through innovative, evidence-based instruction.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Administration
Oversee all aspects of program operations, including curriculum management, faculty supervision, assessment, scheduling, and resource allocation to ensure high-quality instruction and continuous improvement.
Accreditation & Compliance
Maintain full compliance with the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards and state board regulations; lead self-studies, site visits, and ongoing quality assurance initiatives.
Faculty Development & Mentorship
Recruit, train, and mentor faculty to ensure consistency in instructional delivery, student evaluation, and adherence to best practices in clinical education.
Student Success & Support
Foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment focused on academic achievement, clinical competence, and professional growth for all students.
Community & Industry Engagement
Build partnerships with dental practices, clinics, and community health organizations to enhance externship opportunities, graduate placement, and workforce readiness.
Strategic Growth & Innovation
Collaborate with institutional leadership to identify opportunities for program expansion, technology integration, and alignment with evolving oral healthcare trends.
Qualifications
- Current dental hygiene license or DDS/DMD degree required; master’s degree preferred.
- Minimum of 3–5 years of teaching experience in an accredited dental hygiene program.
- Demonstrated understanding of CODA standards and accreditation processes.
- Proven leadership skills with experience in faculty management and program development.
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal abilities.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in health sciences education.
Why This Role Matters
Dental hygiene education plays a pivotal role in improving community health outcomes and advancing access to preventive care. As Program Director, you’ll guide a team of dedicated educators, shape curriculum innovation, and ensure that students graduate with the clinical expertise and ethical foundation to thrive in today’s dynamic healthcare landscape.
