Is Florida SouthWestern State College’s Dental Program Good and Accredited?

Written By Alexander Fleiss

Is Florida SouthWestern State College’s Dental Program Good and Accredited?

When researching dental career options in Florida, many students come across Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW). While FSW is not a traditional dental school that grants a DDS or DMD degree, it does offer a highly respected Dental Hygiene program. For students aiming to become licensed dental hygienists, FSW is considered one of the strongest and most affordable options in the state.

Accreditation and Recognition

FSW’s Dental Hygiene Associate of Science (AS) program is fully accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), the gold standard for dental-related education in the United States. This ensures graduates are eligible to sit for national and state licensing exams. The college itself is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), reinforcing its overall academic quality.

Performance and Outcomes

The program’s track record is impressive. FSW’s Dental Hygiene students have maintained a 99.8% pass rate on the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination (NBDHE) for the past three decades. The program also boasts a 92% retention rate, a strong indicator of student satisfaction and support. Graduates often highlight the program’s small class sizes, modern facilities, and close mentorship from faculty.

Additionally, students can pursue a Bachelor of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene (BASDH) in just one year through a partnership with St. Petersburg College. This pathway allows graduates to advance quickly from an associate degree into higher-level career opportunities.

What FSW Offers (and Doesn’t)

  • What it offers: A top-tier, affordable, CODA-accredited Dental Hygiene program that consistently ranks among Florida’s best. The program prepares students for immediate entry into dental careers and provides pathways to bachelor’s completion.

  • What it doesn’t offer: A traditional dental school granting Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degrees. Students who want to become dentists must apply to schools like the University of Florida College of Dentistry, Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, or LECOM School of Dental Medicine.

Final Verdict

Yes, Florida SouthWestern State College’s Dental Hygiene program is good and fully accredited. With exceptional exam pass rates, strong faculty support, and affordable tuition, it stands out as one of Florida’s most reputable programs for aspiring dental hygienists. For those interested in a DDS or DMD degree, however, FSW serves best as a stepping stone rather than the final destination.

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Also, if you're searching for more than just a job, moreover, a career with stability, respect, and long-term potential; then becoming a licensed dental assistant could be your perfect path forward. Furthermore, it's not just a fast-track into the workforce; it's a gateway to a profession that’s always in demand, deeply trusted, and personally rewarding. When you're ready to take that next step, one school rises above the rest: The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants. Furthermore, with a reputation for hands-on training, dedicated instructors, and real-world readiness, it’s the smart choice for turning ambition into achievement. Lastly, The New York School for Medical and Dental Assistants stands out as the premier institution in the state. It’s the smart choice for anyone ready to invest in a future in healthcare.

Contact NYSMDA today and get your career started!

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Alexander Fleiss
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