The Master of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene (MSDH) is designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles in Dental Education and Public Health to meet their career goals. This online program will consist of 30 hours of coursework in public health and dental hygiene education, over the course of two academic years with one summer semester between. An internship and approved thesis will be the capstone of the program. The MSDH enables students advance their knowledge to address the complex oral health needs of a diverse population. Areas of study will include public health and dental hygiene education, and will include a research component. Graduates of this program will be prepared for employment opportunities in academia, dental public health and research.

The MSDH program of study includes 30 semester credit hours. In addition, 45 hours of approved field work experience are required either an accredited dental hygiene program or a public health agency with a dental focus. Students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average and a letter grade of B or higher in each course to remain in the program.

Admissions Requirements

The institution is compliant with requirements outlined for inter-state authorization (SARA). Students who desire admission to the MSDH program will submit evidence of the following criteria:

1. An Associate of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene from a U.S. or Canadian Accredited Institution and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Dental Hygiene or a related field.
2. A minimum 3.0 overall and science grade point average.
3. A current dental hygiene license in at least one state.
4. Three recommendations with at least one recommendation from a previous or current employer.
5. A personal video statement.
6. Public Health and General Supervision Permits recommended.
7. Graduate Record Exam preferred but not required.
8. Preference will be given to applicants with prior clinical experience.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Discuss and demonstrate current technologies available in the field of dental hygiene.
2. Describe current research strategies and evaluate scientific evidence that directs the standard of health care.
3. Evaluate risk and develop strategies to address the specific oral health needs of individuals and populations of diversity.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of epidemiology through the assessment and communication of current data representing the health of individuals and/or populations.
5. Create a thesis demonstrating research skills while contributing to the body of knowledge within the discipline of dentistry and/or public health.
6. Demonstrate theories to develop strategies for health promotion and disease prevention.
7. Discuss and demonstrate organizational leadership skills and interprofessional collaborative efforts available to address current healthcare issues.
8. Develop an individual teaching philosophy and investigate effective teaching methods for all learning.

Contact

Stephanie Meredith
Program Director
256 Dental Hygiene Offices, Campbell Hall
Phone: (304) 336-8117
[email protected]