Journal of dental hygiene : JDH
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Purpose: Dental hygienists have increased opportunities as work-force models expand opportunities for the profession. The purpose of this study was to identify entry-level dental hygiene program directors' perceptions regarding advancing accreditation standards in dental hygiene education. Methods: An electronic questionnaire was distributed via three mailings during the spring semester of 2019 to the 332 entry-level dental hygiene program directors across the United States for this exploratory, descriptive study. ⋯ Respondents were equally divided concerning changing the accreditation standard for the entry-level to the baccalaureate degree but were in support of modifying the standard to require didactic educators to have a master's degree. Conclusion: Dental hygiene program directors were divided regarding advancing accreditation standards to the baccalaureate degree for entry-level dental hygienists. Further research is needed to include dental hygiene educators' and leaders' perspectives to provide comparative information and a greater understanding regarding increasing accreditation standards.