The Dental Hygiene Program at UTHealth School of Dentistry (UTSD) at Houston prepares students for careers at every level of the profession. Our students learn from nationally recognized faculty and study in state-of-the-art facilities in the world-renowned Texas Medical Center, working side-by-side with other members of the dental team.
We offer a traditional Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) degree for students who have completed the 62 hours of prerequisite courses. Our other entry-level offering is a Post-Degree Certificate in Dental Hygiene for those who already have a degree and do not wish to earn a BSDH. BSDH students may also seek concurrent enrollment at UTHealth School of Public Health for a certificate or master’s degree in public health.
We also offer an online “RDH-to-BSDH” program that lets students work as they upgrade their credentials, and our newest offering is a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene (MSDH).
Are you interested in the dental hygiene profession?
Already have a degree in something else and want to expand your career options?
Are you a registered dental hygienist who is interested in obtaining a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene to expand your career opportunities?
Are you a dental hygienist with a bachelor’s degree who is ready to advance their career?”
Want to learn more about the Dental Hygiene programs? Join us during one of our Information Sessions.
UTHealth Houston is Texas’ resource for health care education, innovation, scientific discovery, and excellence in patient care. With half a century of experience, UTHealth Houston is one of the nation’s most comprehensive academic health centers.
Located in the heart of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center and across the state, UTHealth Houston’s students, faculty, and staff are creating a healthier future for all — in more than 7 million square feet of state-of-the-art clinical, research, training, and administrative space across 127 buildings.
Our faculty educate and train the next generation of health care providers and researchers to deliver outstanding patient care and improve community health in Houston and beyond.
UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry was the first dental school in Texas and was a founding institution of the Texas Medical Center.
Founded in 1905, the School of Dentistry has set the standard for oral health by educating outstanding dentists, specialists, and dental hygienists while conducting research and caring for the people of Texas.
The School of Dentistry offers 11 accredited programs: DDS, dental hygiene, two primary care general residency programs, and advanced education programs in endodontics, oral and maxillofacial pathology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, and prosthodontics. The OMS program has two tracks: a certificate-only program, and a program leading to both a certificate and an MD degree from McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. The School of Dentistry and UTHealth Houston School of Public Health offer concurrent BSDH/MPH and DDS/MPH options for students, and the School of Dentistry and McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics at UTHealth Houston offer a joint certificate in dental informatics. The School of Dentistry has also a MSDH program.
Through its unique PACE Center, the School of Dentistry is a leading provider of continuing dental education, event planning services, and guidance for students transitioning into practice. PACE is also home for alumni relations and communications.
A degree in Dental Hygiene offers a unique and rewarding path for individuals seeking a fulfilling career change or embarking on their professional journey. Dental hygiene not only promises job stability and a strong earning potential, but it also provides an opportunity to make a significant impact on people's lives. As a dental hygienist, you'll play a crucial role in promoting oral health, preventing dental diseases, and enhancing overall well-being. The profession offers flexibility, with opportunities to work in various healthcare settings, from private dental offices to public health clinics. With a growing demand for dental hygiene services, pursuing this degree not only ensures a stable and fulfilling career but also allows you to contribute to the health and smiles of your community. So, if you're looking for a meaningful and versatile career, a degree in Dental Hygiene could be your gateway to a bright and purposeful future.
