Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Science (Dental Hygiene Specialization) Program

The Bachelor of Science (Dental Hygiene Specialization) program is designed for individuals who wish to pursue a career in healthcare, specifically in dental hygiene. This program is offered by the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry at the University of Alberta.

Why Study Dental Hygiene?

Dental hygienists play a crucial role in supporting dentistry practices and helping patients with their oral hygiene. This program is ideal for those who want to work in a people-friendly atmosphere and enjoy a flexible work schedule. As part of the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, students will be involved in giving back to the community and gain experience working with non-profit organizations.

Program Overview

The Mike Petryk School of Dentistry at the University of Alberta offers a fully accredited program with state-of-the-art facilities, including a full-service dental clinic. The program emphasizes community involvement, and students become community partners early in their learning by volunteering with non-profit organizations, participating in global missions, working with children and seniors, and providing services to the public.

Possible Careers

• Dental Hygienist

Program Requirements

Non-Direct Entry

This program does not allow admission directly from high school. The following requirements must be met:

• Alberta Grade 12 Preparation: Recommended subjects include English Language Arts 30-1, Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2, Chemistry 30, and Biology 30.
• Preprofessional Study Time: At least 1 year of transferable, postsecondary, full-time study is required (30 units, of which 27 units must be taken full-time in one Fall/Winter).
  • English (6 units)
  • Organic Chemistry (3 units)
  • General Chemistry (3 units)
  • Cell Biology (3 units)
  • Sociology (3 units)
  • Psychology (3 units)
  • Statistics (3 units)
  • Option for any faculty (6 units)

Additional Requirements

• Situational Judgement test
• Personal Experiences form
• Personal Interview
• Spoken English language proficiency

Requirements Following Offer of Admission

• Police Information Check (PIC)
• Medical Testing and Immunization
• Proof of Residency Status may be required

Admission Selection

Admission to the program is competitive. All applicants must meet academic requirements, and selection factors will include:

1. Overall GPA
2. Situational Judgement Test (Casper) results
3. Personal Experiences
4. Interview Score To be competitive, applicants should strive for a GPA of 3.0. Students with a GPA of less than 2.7 will not be considered.

English Language Proficiency

The primary language of instruction is English, and all students must have the necessary language skills to understand, participate, and learn in classes.

Indigenous Applicants

The University of Alberta is committed to encouraging Indigenous students in their work towards a degree. The admission policy aims to increase opportunities for Indigenous students, with the goal of the Aboriginal student population being representative of the public served.

Deadline

• Fall application:
  • Domestic: November 1, 2025
  • International: November 1, 2025

Tuition and Fees

Tuition fees vary based on the specific courses registered. A cost calculator is available to provide an estimate based on full-time study for the selected program, living arrangements, citizenship status, and more.

Scholarships and Financial Support

The Office of the Registrar administers over $52 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for undergraduate students, as well as financial and loan advising. Additional scholarships are available for specific faculties and programs.