Southwestern Illinois College announces new dental hygiene, dental assisting programs

By Tribune Staff • Southwestern Illinois College is excited to announce plans to launch a new dental hygiene and dental assisting programs beginning in fall 2027, pending final approval and accreditation. The programs are expected to be offered at the college’s Fairview Heights location.

The new programs are being developed to help meet the growing demand for skilled dental professionals throughout the region while providing local students with additional career training opportunities close to home.

“We are excited to expand our healthcare offerings with the addition of dental hygiene and dental assisting,” said Joseph Walter, Chief Academic Officer. “Many students in our district currently travel to other Illinois colleges to pursue these programs and we are proud to work toward bringing these opportunities directly to our community.”

Students enrolled in the programs will receive hands-on training designed to prepare them for careers in dental offices, clinics and other healthcare settings. The college is partnering with area dental professionals to ensure students gain valuable real-world clinical experience during their education.

Additional details regarding admissions, accreditation updates, and program requirements will be announced as they become available.