Most Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Master of Science Concentration in Dental Hygiene Program?
The program varies based upon the candidate. If a candidate selects the thesis option, then 34 hours of coursework must be completed. If the candidate selects the non thesis option, then 37 hours of coursework must be completed. Candidates who pursue a full-time course of study (approx. 12 hours per semester) can complete the program in 3-4 consecutive semesters. Candidates who are interested in part-time study have up to 6 years to complete the degree.
Do I have to be on campus as a resident student the entire time?
No, but certain courses need to be taken at Old Dominion University (DNTH516 Administrative Leadership and Professional Development, CHP640 Data Analysis and Interpretation) while DNTH515 Research Methods in the Health Sciences is offered as part of the University's distance learning program. Up to 12 graduate credit hours can be taken as electives at a University near your home, and then transferred to ODU. Finally, courses such as DNTH602 Problems in Dental Hygiene, DNTH698 Research, DNTH699 Thesis, DNTH668 Practicum and DNTH614 Externship, can be arranged so that you do not need to be on campus. Up to 6 graduate credit can be awarded as experiential credit.
How do I know if ODU will accept graduate course credits from another University?
Graduate level course credits from any accredited institution of higher learning are transferable if a grade of "B" or better is earned. To determine if there is a match with the required and elective courses for the Master of Science Degree, Concentration in Dental Hygiene, the student needs to submit an official transcript with a University Application to the Office of Admissions for an evaluation of the course's. You can also talk with Michele Darby, the Graduate Program Director, for an unofficial determination. (757) 683-5232; e-mail at mdarby@odu.edu
How do I apply for the Master of Science, Concentration in Dental Hygiene Program?
1. Interested persons must submit a formal graduate application. Applications for graduate admission may be obtained from the Office of Admissions, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA 23529-0050, (757) 683-3637, download from internet (Click here to download) or calling the toll free number 1-800-348-7999 or ODU School of Dental Hygiene, (757) 683-5232 for more information.
2. These documents must be submitted:
a. Application and official transcripts to the Office of Admissions, Old Dominion University.
b. Scores from the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.
c. Completed recommendation forms from previous clinical supervisor and dental hygiene program director.
d. Two Letters of recommendation from academic sources.
e. A formal written statement of personal goals and objectives.
f. Completed self-evaluation form.
g. International applicants must present satisfactory evidence of competence in English by submitting a score of at least 550 on the TOEFL.
3. Possession of a bachelor's degree in dental hygiene or a related field and, in the latter case, have completed an accredited certificate or associate degree program in dental hygiene.
4. Evidence of an undergraduate overall quality point average of at least 2.8 and an average in the dental hygiene major of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
5. Upon admission, individuals are required to participate in a diagnostic writing exercise for evaluation by the staff of the University Writing Center. Graduate students deemed deficient in writing skills will be required to remedy their deficiency through the services of the Writing Center.
6. International applicants should contact the Office of International Studies and Scholar Services at (757) 683-4757, regarding immigration or financial concerns (Click here for more information).
What type of courses will I take?
Students in both the thesis and non thesis take a core requirement of 19 credits and a 9 credit specialty area. Areas of specialization include education, administration/management, research, marketing, and community health. Once the area of specialization is determined, then courses are selected each semester to support the area of specialization. Even research, thesis, and practical are designed with the specialization in mind.
Do I have to do a thesis?
No! The thesis option is a more research-oriented program. This option is considered essential for those students who are interested in preparing themselves as University faculty, continuing their studies at the doctoral level, or wishing to pursue research training. Candidates interested in teaching in the community college setting or in sales and marketing may be more interested in the non thesis option. (Click for information on Dental Hygiene Research Center)
What can a dental hygienist do with a masters degree in dental hygiene?
Alumni of the Master of Science, Concentration in Dental Hygiene Program hold faculty positions throughout the nation and in other countries; several are directors of dental hygiene programs; others work in the oral health products industry in sales, marketing, research and management; some have gone onto dental school and are now practicing dentists; some are enrolled in doctoral studies; some work in a variety of positions within the state and federal government; and some are entrepreneurs.
What types of students are in the masters degree program?
Individuals in the program enroll because they believe that they can make a larger contribution to healthcare and dental hygiene with advanced education. They come from all over the nation and the world to design unique programs of graduate study to meet their diverse career goals and aspirations.
What is the strength of the Old Dominion University's Master's Degree Program?
Old Dominion University's School of Dental Hygiene is committed to the preparation of dental hygienists in a multicultural environment for accountable leadership roles in today's health system. Toward this end, it offers an innovative curriculum leading to the Master of Science degree with an emphasis in dental hygiene, and specialization options in education, administration/management, research, marketing, and community health. Through academic courses, independent study, research and practical experience. Graduate candidates are prepared to meet the present demand for dental hygiene leaders as practitioners, educators, oral advocates, change agents, administrators/managers, and researchers. Regardless of specialization, students can work at the Dental Hygiene Research Center to develop their investigational skills.
Although graduate education is focused on developing an area of specialization, such a focus is viewed as secondary to extending dental hygiene knowledge and practice beyond present horizons and developing dental hygiene theory. Within a multidisciplinary framework that interrelates theory, research and practical experience, the program integrates the goals and career aspirations of the graduate candidate with the current issues of dental hygiene, healthcare and society.
A major advantage of graduate study in dental hygiene is the atmosphere of intellectual independence and creativity and interdisciplinary interactions fostered within the collegiality of other scholars and professionals. Through the Dental Hygiene Research Center, students work on a one-to-one basis with faculty who are recognized nationally and internationally as leaders. With these faculty, students conduct research, develop theory, prepare professional presentations and manuscripts for publication, acquire a foundation for doctoral study, and are socialized to the meaning of scholarship. The College also offers a PhD in Health Services Research program, which is available to qualified dental hygienists wishing to pursue a doctoral degree. Contact Dr. Claire Houseman at chousema@odu.edu for information on the doctoral program.
Is financial aid available to graduate students?
Old Dominion University offers financial assistance to qualified students. Assistance is awarded as grants and scholarships which do not need to be repaid, or as loans and employment carriers which need to be repaid. The general type of aid for which students may qualify are federal and state aid, work-study employment, University scholarships, and outside agency awards. Money is limited and chances of aid are affected by student need and timeliness of application for aid (Click here for more information on Financial Aid).
What are some examples of Internship that previous graduate students have done?
Students have completed internships with the American Red Cross, Philips Oral Healthcare, The Conrad Clinical Research Center, Eastern Virginia Medical Center, Naval Dental Center- Mid-Atlantic Region, Procter & Gamble, Colgate, Children's Dental Health Project in Washington, DC; just to name a few of the various projects.
Do I have to start in August (Fall Semester)?
No, students can start the masters degree program in August, January or May. Although course sequencing is best when the program is started in August.
Can I start the masters program without a B.S. degree?
Dental hygienists who hold a certificate or associates degree may be eligible for the Accelerated B.S. to M.S.D.H. Program. Please contact Dr. Deanne Shuman to determine your eligibility.
