SMILE North Iowa

NIACC is developing a new Dental Hygiene Program that will give students the opportunity to prepare for an in-demand health care career close to home – while helping expand access to preventive dental care across North Iowa.

With your support, we can create a new pathway for students, strengthen the region’s health care workforce, and make a lasting difference in the communities we serve.

Creating Opportunity Close to Home

For students interested in becoming dental hygienists, pursuing their education can mean leaving North Iowa for training – and potentially beginning their careers elsewhere.

NIACC plans to change that.

The planned two-year Dental Hygiene Program is being designed for an annual cohort of approximately 20 students, combining classroom learning with extensive hands-on clinical experience. Like so many NIACC programs, the goal is simple: prepare students for great careers while helping meet a real workforce need in our region.

A Place to Learn – and Serve

A planned new Dental Hygiene building will create a modern learning environment featuring dental technology and a planned 20-chair teaching clinic.

Here, students will develop their skills by working with patients under professional supervision. At the same time, the clinic will help expand access to preventive dental care for people throughout North Iowa.

One investment. Two powerful outcomes: more opportunities for students and greater access to care for our communities.

Investing in North Iowa’s Future

NIACC graduates have a strong history of staying close to home: 94% remain in Iowa, and 87% work for North Iowa employers.

By investing in the SMILE North Iowa campaign, you can help educate the next generation of health care professionals right here in our region – giving them the skills to build successful careers and serve the communities that need them.

Be Part of What Comes Next

Your gift can help make the Dental Hygiene program a reality.

Together, we can create new opportunities for students, strengthen North Iowa’s health care workforce and expand access to dental care for years to come.

Help bring the future of dental hygiene education to North Iowa.

Accreditation Status

The Dental Hygiene Program is currently in the planning and development phase and has not received initial accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Development activities include curriculum design, facility planning, community partnerships, institutional approvals and preparation for the initial accreditation process.

NIACC is not currently accepting applications, maintaining a waiting list, or advising prospective students to complete prerequisite coursework specifically for the Dental Hygiene Program.