MSc in Dental Hygiene Program

The Master of Science in Dental Hygiene represents a vital step toward achieving excellence in this dynamic and diverse field. The program aims to provide students with advanced scientific knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to meet the increasing challenges in dental care.

About the Program

The program has been established under the coursework and thesis track, available exceptionally in the second semester of the academic year 1447H / 2025–2026. Starting from the academic year 1448H / 2026–2027, the program will be open for admission in the first semester of each year. The program is delivered in English and is open to both male and female students.

Mission

To graduate dental Hygienists equipped with knowledge, skills, and competencies to practice the profession to contribute significantly to community services and to scientific research, thus improving oral and dental health and quality of life in Saudi society.

Goals

• To provide students with an advanced and comprehensive understanding of dental Hygiene practices in terms of theoretical knowledge, practice, and skills used for the construction of fixed and removable dental prostheses as well as orthodontic and maxillofacial appliances.
• To enhance capabilities in scientific research through active student participation in scientific research, contributing to the development of effective solutions for modern challenges in dental Hygiene.
• To develop practical and technical skills for efficient dental Hygiene practice by providing rich practical experiences and training opportunities to develop necessary practical skills.
• To develop communication skills and improving the work environment, such as effective communication skills, knowledge transfer, problem-solving, evaluation, time management, and dental clinic management.
• To promote commitment to quality standards and professional ethics by enhancing students' awareness of the importance of professional ethics and adherence to quality standards in dental Hygiene practice.
• To enhance interaction with the community and healthcare institutions by contributing to improving healthcare services and developing training and industrial programs in healthcare institutions.

Admission Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in regular attendance in Dental Hygiene from King Saud University or a recognized institution with at least a "Good" grade (GPA ≥ 2.75 out of 5 or equivalent).
• An Academic IELTS score of ≥ 5.0 (or equivalent).

Study Plan

Level 1

1. DEH 511: Clinical Teaching in Dental Hygiene - 3 hours (2+1) Theory/Clinical
2. DEH 512: Oral Health Services - 3 hours (2+1) Theory/Clinical
3. DEH 513: Biostatistics in Dental Health - 2 hours
4. DEH 514: Comprehensive Dental Hygiene Care - 3 hours (1+2) Theory/Clinical

• Total: 11 Study Units

Level 2

1. DEH 521: Advanced Periodontology for Dental Hygiene Professionals - 3 hours (1+2) Theory/Clinical
2. DEH 522: Seminar in Dental Health - 2 hours (2 hours theory)
3. DEH 523: Administration & Leadership for Dental Hygiene Professionals - 3 hours (1+2) Theory/Clinical
4. Elective course (1) - 3 hours

• Total: 11 Study Units

Level 3

1. DEH 598: Thesis proposal preparation - 1 hour
2. Elective course (2) - 3 hours

• Total: 4 Study Units

Level 4

1. DEH 600: Thesis - 6 hours

• Total: 6 Study Units

Course Specifications

• DEH 511: Clinical Teaching in Dental Hygiene - The course aims to familiarize students with the concepts of education and theories related to dental health education.
• DEH 512: Oral Health Services - This course teaches the foundations of oral health services including medical care in traditional and non-traditional clinical settings.
• DEH 513: Biostatistics in Dental Health - The course includes fundamental concepts, statistical data, community and random sampling, survey methods, data collection methods, etc.
• DEH 514: Comprehensive Dental Hygiene Care - This course is designed to give the students a chance to practice within interdisciplinary dental settings.
• DEH 521: Advanced Periodontology for Dental Hygiene Professionals - This advanced course provides dental hygiene students with a comprehensive understanding of periodontal disease.
• DEH 522: Seminar in Dental Health - The main purpose of the course is to provide dental hygiene students with the opportunity to explore and discuss advanced topics, research, and emerging trends in the field.
• DEH 523: Administration & Leadership for Dental Hygiene Professionals - This course prepares the student for healthcare facility and dental clinic leadership.
• DEH 598: Thesis proposal preparation - The Research Methodologies course is designed to equip students with the fundamental skills and knowledge necessary for planning and conducting scientific research.
• DEH 600: Thesis - The Scientific Thesis course is an academic course that requires students to write a research paper or an independent study on a specific topic in the field of dental technology or dental health.

FAQs

1. What is the application process and admission procedure? - Applications are submitted online through the Deanship of Graduate Studies website during the announced application periods.
2. Is the program offered in the regular (morning) system or the extended (evening) system? - Currently, the program is offered only in the regular morning system.
3. What is the study track available in the program? - The program follows the coursework and thesis track.
4. What are the admission requirements? Are there additional requirements beyond the official announcement? - The basic requirements are published on the Deanship's website, with additional criteria considered for ranking applicants.
5. Is employer approval required for admission? - Employer approval is not required for admission.
6. Are sponsored (government-funded) students accepted? What is their admission process? - Yes, both self-funded and sponsored/mission students are accepted under the same application and admission process.
7. Are non-Saudi students accepted (residents or international students)? - Yes, non-Saudi students are accepted in accordance with the regulations of the Deanship of Graduate Studies.
8. Can students from related fields (e.g., Dental Assistant, Nursing, Dentistry) apply? - Applicants from certain related health fields may be considered for admission.
9. Is a professional license from the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties required for admission? - The license is not mandatory but is strongly recommended.
10. Does the approval of the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties mean automatic classification of graduates? - Approval of the program by the Commission does not mean automatic classification.
11. When is the academic supervisor assigned to students in the thesis track? - Supervisors are assigned during the first year of the program, prior to enrollment in the course DT 598: Research Proposal Development.

King Saud University: A Comprehensive Overview

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Overview:

King Saud University (KSU) is a prominent public research university located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It is the largest university in the country and holds a prestigious position in the global academic landscape.

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Services Offered:

KSU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Programs:

A diverse selection of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

Scholarships:

Financial assistance for deserving students.

Training:

Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.

Student Services:

Support services such as counseling, career guidance, and health care.

Housing:

On-campus accommodation options for students.

Libraries:

Extensive library resources and facilities.

Museums:

Cultural and historical museums for enriching experiences.

Student Clubs:

Opportunities for extracurricular activities and social engagement.

Sports Facilities:

Modern sports facilities for recreational and competitive activities.

Recreation Centers:

Spaces for relaxation and entertainment.

Electronic Services:

Online platforms for accessing academic resources, financial and administrative systems, and communication tools.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

KSU provides a vibrant and enriching campus experience for its students. The university boasts:

Modern Campuses:

Well-equipped and spacious campuses with state-of-the-art facilities.

Active Student Life:

A thriving student community with numerous clubs, organizations, and events.

Cultural Diversity:

A diverse student body representing various nationalities and backgrounds.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to participate in community service initiatives.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Academic Excellence:

KSU is renowned for its high-quality academic programs and distinguished faculty.

Research Opportunities:

The university fosters a strong research culture with numerous research centers and initiatives.

Global Recognition:

KSU holds a prominent position in international rankings, signifying its academic standing.

Comprehensive Services:

The university provides a wide range of support services to ensure student success.

Vibrant Campus Life:

KSU offers a dynamic and engaging campus environment with diverse opportunities for personal and professional growth.

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Academic Programs:

KSU offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:

Science:

Medicine, Engineering, Computer Science, Pharmacy, and more.

Health:

Nursing, Dentistry, Public Health, and more.

Humanities:

Arts, Languages, Literature, Social Sciences, and more.

Community Colleges:

Programs focused on vocational and technical skills.

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Other: