Dental Hygiene

Dental Hygienists work primarily in dental offices and are supervised by dentists. They advise and educate patients, examine and clean their mouths, and help detect signs of oral diseases. They use a variety of tools, including air-polishing devices, X-rays, and ultrasonic instruments. For more information on dental hygienists, please see the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook.

The University of Maryland, College Park does not grant associate or bachelor’s degrees in dental hygiene, so students should plan to transfer to another institution to complete their degree. 

How Do I Become a Dental Hygienist?

A student must earn at least an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Dental Hygiene in order to become a Dental Hygienist. These programs typically take approximately three years to complete, including the time to complete required prerequisite courses.

There are Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs, as well, which allow students to transfer in after completing necessary prerequisite coursework (2+2 or 2+3 format) and/or transition careers after having already completed a Bachelor's degree in an unrelated field. 

After completing the necessary schooling, an aspiring Dental Hygienist must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and state clinical board examination(s). 

What are Common Prerequisites for Dental Hygiene Programs?

While prerequisites vary from school to school, common prerequisites can include (but are not limited to):

  • General Biology with lab(s)
  • General Chemistry with lab(s)
  • Anatomy & Physiology I & II with labs
  • College Algebra
  • Statistics
  • Introduction to Psychology 
  • English Composition or Writing 

Prerequisite coursework can vary significantly between institutions and degree types, so always start by reviewing schools that you are interested in attending. 

*Additional information is available on the HPAO Canvas Course. Students are encouraged to meet with HPAO if they need help determining which UMD courses can be used to fulfill these requirements. 

Pro Tips:

  • Schools generally require a minimum of a C (not a C-) in all prerequisite courses. Some programs require higher. 

  • Refer to 4yearplans.umd.edu for specific guidance on how to proceed through these courses while creating your 4-year plan.

  • There are many Minors that cover topics critical to expanding understanding of the various determinants of health. Coursework related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion can be helpful in developing cultural awareness, cultural humility, and an understanding of systemic discrimination in the health care system. Even if your academic plan does not permit adding a minor, it is worth reviewing the curated course lists for courses that will stretch you, increase your language for difference and disparity, show your intellectual curiosity, and improve your critical reasoning skills. 

What Other Experience is Necessary for Pre-Dental Hygienist Students?

While many Hygiene programs do not explicitly require clinical experience, it is important to familiarize yourself with the field. It is always a good idea to shadow hygienists in various environments. Some schools require a minimum number of shadowing hours as part of the application. Many students also find value in working a paid, clinical job as a dental assistant or intern during their undergraduate career. 

We also highly recommend students engage in service experiences and remain involved with their community.

Resources for Pre-Dental Hygienist Students