Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Online

  • Master of Science
  • College of Health Sciences
  • Gene W. Hirschfeld School of Dental Hygiene

Helping others improve their health is a great reason to go into dentistry. And with the country's recent changes to health care, the need for dental health professionals is higher than ever.

ODU's online master's program in dental hygiene prepares you to be a leader in this rewarding, growing field. ODU's unique approach also gives you the choice to tailor your degree to other growing career fields. These could include education, administration/management, research, marketing, or community health.

When you graduate, you will earn a Master of Science in dental hygiene.

ODU's dental hygiene program is accredited by CODA, the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

Looking for the BSDH to MS accelerated online dental hygiene program? Please visit the Dental Hygiene (BSDH) page.

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  • Best Online Bachelor's in Dental Hygiene, 2023 - OnlineU.com

    • 34 credit hours (37 for non-thesis)

    You will be able to choose courses in an area of specialization and electives. The total credits required for you as a student in this program depends on whether you choose the thesis or non-thesis option. A practicum or internship is also required.

  • Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. This program also requires a practicum/internship. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

  • Our graduates aren't limited to a career in a clinical setting. Dental hygiene professionals may also find exciting career paths in:

    • Global health
    • Public and community health
    • Research
    • Modeling and simulation
    • Marketing
    • Administration and management
  • In-state Virginia Residents
    $599 per credit hour*
    Out-of-state Students
    $623 per credit hour

    Rates are effective Fall 2023 and subject to change.
    * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

  • This program is not intended to lead to a specific state-level license.

    If you plan to pursue a professional license or credential, we encourage you to explore requirements through the appropriate credentialing agency or professional organization in your state.

    Have questions? Please contact us through the form above to talk to an enrollment coach.

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

  • You must have a Bachelor's degree in dental hygiene or a related field for consideration. In the latter case, you must also have an accredited certificate or associate's degree in dental hygiene. For detailed guidelines, please visit the School of Dental Hygiene website.

    Non-international applicants must also submit their scores from the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination. 

    If you're an international student interested in taking this program online, please contact the ODU International Admission Office.

  • You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into a specific degree program. 

    Please contact us to discuss this option with an expert advisor.