Why ODU for 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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If you are interested in pursuing an undergraduate degree, we can provide a free unofficial evaluation of your domestic transcript(s).





Program Information

Total
34-37 Credit Hours

In our Dental Hygiene MS Online, you will be able to choose courses in an area of specialization and electives. A practicum or internship is required.

The total credits required depends on whether you choose to complete a thesis (34 credit hours) or non-thesis option (37 credit hours).

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

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.

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. 

Learn More About State Licensure Disclosures

Total
34-37 Credit Hours

In our Dental Hygiene MS Online, you will be able to choose courses in an area of specialization and electives. A practicum or internship is required.

The total credits required depends on whether you choose to complete a thesis (34 credit hours) or non-thesis option (37 credit hours).

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

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.

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. 

Learn More About State Licensure Disclosures

Cost & Aid

Smiling woman in professional attire smiles in a casual office setting
Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$486 per credit hour*
Out-of-state Students
$649 per credit hour

Rates are effective Fall 2025 and subject to change.
* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

Explore ODUGlobal Cost & Aid
The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarships & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

At ODUGlobal, we offer a variety of scholarships to support and empower you in achieving your academic and career goals, making quality education accessible wherever you are. 
 

Learn more about our scholarships

Careers in Dental Hygiene

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

ODUGlobal Graduate Admissions Team

Elaine Ross, Assistant Director of Graduate and International Admissions

Contact us at globalgradadmit@odu.edu about admission requirements, deadlines, or anything else you need to know about the application process!

Angel Baker
Angel Baker
Applications Coordinator
globalgradadmit@odu.edu
Angela Schlender
Angela Schlender
Applications Coordinator
globalgradadmit@odu.edu

Ready to Apply?

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.

Want to get started now?

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.

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