Program Overview

Master of Science in Dental Hygiene (MSDH)

The Master of Science in Dental Hygiene (MSDH) program is designed for dental hygienists with a bachelor's degree who are ready to advance their career. This program opens opportunities for dental hygienists to teach in dental hygiene programs, especially at universities or dental schools, and prepares graduates for positions in teaching, administration, management, and oral health research.

Program Overview

The MSDH program consists of 33 credit hours of upper-level coursework and is a hybrid program that allows students to complete 73% of coursework online. The on-campus courses may be taken at UTSD or at another participating dental hygiene program campus as approved by the Program Coordinator. Students may enroll full- or part-time, but must complete the program within five years. Faculty will work with students to accommodate their individual interests and needs.

Career Opportunities

The American Dental Education Association reported that 75% of dental hygiene faculty teaching in 2016 were over the age of 40, and that over 50% would be approaching retirement age within 5-10 years, creating a significant need for dental hygiene educators. Graduates of the MSDH program will be well-positioned to fill this need and pursue careers in teaching, administration, management, and oral health research.

Program Requirements

• The program consists of 33 credit hours of upper-level coursework
• 73% of coursework can be completed online
• On-campus courses may be taken at UTSD or at another participating dental hygiene program campus
• Students may enroll full- or part-time
• The program must be completed within five years

Academic Catalog

The Academic Catalog contains detailed information on program requirements, application procedures, and tuition.

Education Overview

The School of Dentistry offers several education programs, including:

• Doctor of Dental Surgery
• Dental Hygiene
  • Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH)
  • Post-Degree Certification Program
  • Master of Science in Dental Hygiene (MSDH)
• Advanced Education
  • Accepted Advanced Education Students
  • Dental Informatics
  • Endodontics
  • Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD)
  • General Practice Residency (GPR)
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology
  • Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Orthodontics
  • Pediatric Dentistry
  • Periodontics
  • Prosthodontics
• International Dentist Education Program