Overview
The B.S./M.S. Dual Degree Clinical Dental Hygiene Leader (CDHL) Track at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry is an accelerated program designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in a non-dental field and have completed 57 credits of prerequisite coursework. This innovative program enables students to earn both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene over seven semesters, including three summer terms. The curriculum combines graduate and undergraduate courses, emphasizing research, scholarly writing, and evidence-based patient care. Students engage in both synchronous and asynchronous learning, with hands-on clinical experiences at the Universities at Shady Grove and rotations at the Baltimore campus. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, public health departments, and educational institutions.
Program structure
The B.S./M.S. Dual Degree Clinical Dental Hygiene Leader (CDHL) Track at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry is an accelerated program designed for individuals who already possess a bachelor's degree in a non-dental field and have completed 57 credits of prerequisite coursework. This program enables students to earn both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene over seven semesters, including three summer terms. The curriculum combines graduate and undergraduate courses, emphasizing research, scholarly writing, and evidence-based patient care. Students engage in both synchronous and asynchronous learning, with hands-on clinical experiences at the Universities at Shady Grove and rotations at the Baltimore campus. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, public health departments, and educational institutions.
Program Structure:
The CDHL Track is a full-time program spanning seven semesters: three summer sessions, two fall semesters, and two spring semesters. The curriculum integrates both undergraduate and graduate coursework, focusing on clinical practice, community service, research, and leadership. Students participate in blended learning experiences, combining online and in-person instruction, with clinical activities conducted at the Universities at Shady Grove and periodic rotations to the Baltimore campus.
Course Sequence:
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Summer I, Year I:
- Research and Professional Writing
- Introduction to Library Resources and Scholarly Writing
- Legal and Ethical Issues for Health, Human Services, and Clinical Professionals
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Fall I, Year I:
- Communicative Health Literacy and Advocacy
- Prevention and Control of Oral Diseases I
- Head and Neck Anatomy
- Oral Histology and Embryology
- Microbiology
- Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist I
- Oral Radiology I
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Spring I, Year I:
- Scientific Method and Writing
- Prevention and Control of Oral Diseases II
- Patients with Special Needs
- Methods and Materials in Dentistry
- General Pharmacology and Therapeutics
- Oral Radiology II
- Periodontics for the Dental Hygienist II
- General and Oral Pathology
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Summer II, Year II:
- Research Seminar
- Practicum and Capstone I
- Communication and Leadership
- Dental Anesthesia and Sedation
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Fall II, Year II:
- Biostatistics for the Health Professional
- Advanced Clinical Practice I
- Innovative Dental Hygiene Practice
- Community Service-Learning I
- Community Oral Health
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Spring II, Year II:
- Foundations of Education
- Advanced Clinical Practice II
- Community Service-Learning II
- Dynamics of Health Care
- Health Care Management
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Summer III, Year III:
- Practicum and Capstone II
Upon successful completion of the Spring II semester in Year II, students are awarded the Bachelor of Science degree. The Master of Science in Dental Hygiene is conferred at the end of Summer III, Year III.
Clinical Experience:
Students should expect to be at the Shady Grove campus 2-3 days and in Baltimore 2-3 days during the first year, and 3-4 days at Shady Grove and 1-2 days in Baltimore during the second year.
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Prerequisites:
Applicants must have completed a previous bachelor's degree in a field other than dental hygiene and 57 credits of specific prerequisite coursework, including science and non-science courses. All science courses must have been completed within seven years of application to the program.
Application Process:
Prospective students must complete the ADEA DHCAS application, including all supplemental materials such as transcripts, résumé, personal statement, recommendation letters, and shadowing form. The application cycle is open from October 24 until February 15.
For more detailed information, please visit the program's webpage.
Fees and Funding
The B.S./M.S. Dual Degree Clinical Dental Hygiene Leader (CDHL) Track at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry is an accelerated program designed for individuals who already possess a bachelor's degree in a non-dental field and have completed 57 credits of prerequisite coursework. This program enables students to earn both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Dental Hygiene over seven semesters, including three summer terms. The curriculum combines graduate and undergraduate courses, emphasizing research, scholarly writing, and evidence-based patient care. Students engage in both synchronous and asynchronous learning, with hands-on clinical experiences at the Universities at Shady Grove and rotations at the Baltimore campus. Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, public health departments, and educational institutions.
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Tuition and Fees:
Specific tuition rates for the CDHL Track are not detailed in the provided sources. Prospective students are encouraged to consult the University of Maryland School of Dentistry's tuition page for the most current information.
Financial Aid and Scholarships:
The University of Maryland School of Dentistry offers various scholarships to support dental hygiene students. These include:
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Specialty Scholarships: Awarded based on criteria such as academic excellence, leadership, and financial need. Examples include the Fusion Dental Group Scholarship Endowment and the Dr. Leslie E. Grant Scholarship Endowment.
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University Scholarships and Grants: Available to students demonstrating academic achievement and community commitment. Endowed scholarships are competitive and may require a separate application.
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External Scholarships: Organizations such as the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) offer scholarships and awards for dental hygiene students. Information on these opportunities can be found on the University Student Financial Assistance webpage.
Application Process for Scholarships:
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Research Opportunities: Review the eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.
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Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary materials, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
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Submit Applications: Follow the specific instructions for each scholarship application, ensuring all materials are submitted by the deadlines.
For detailed information on tuition, fees, and available scholarships, please visit the University of Maryland School of Dentistry's admissions page.
Prospective students are encouraged to contact the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs for personalized assistance:
By exploring these financial aid options, students can effectively plan for their educational journey in the CDHL Track.
Scholarship Guidance
The University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD) offers various scholarships that may be available to students enrolled in the B.S./M.S. Dual Degree Clinical Dental Hygiene Leader (CDHL) Track. These scholarships are designed to support students based on criteria such as academic excellence, leadership, community service, and financial need.
Available Scholarships:
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Specialty Scholarships: UMSOD provides endowed scholarships for students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and a commitment to community service. Examples include:
- Drs. Stanley E. Block, Philip L. Block, and Joanne Block Rief Endowed Scholarship Fund: Awards scholarships to Maryland residents enrolled at UMSOD.
- Dr. Leslie E. Grant Scholarship Endowment: Supports students from historically underrepresented minorities.
- Fusion Dental Group Scholarship Endowment: Provides support for junior and senior students demonstrating clinical excellence and leadership.
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Dean’s Scholarship for Leadership & Excellence: Established to celebrate and support outstanding student leaders who aspire to positively impact their communities. Each year, multiple students are selected based on their leadership qualities and academic performance.
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Application Process:
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Research Opportunities: Review the eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship. Detailed information is available on the UMSOD Scholarship Opportunities page.
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Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary materials, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements, as required by each scholarship.
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Submit Applications: Follow the specific instructions for each scholarship application, ensuring all materials are submitted by the specified deadlines.
Additional Financial Aid:
Beyond scholarships, students may explore other financial aid options, including grants and loans. The University of Maryland, Baltimore's Office of Student Financial Assistance provides comprehensive information on available financial aid programs and the application process.
Contact Information:
For personalized assistance and more information on scholarships and financial aid, prospective and current students can contact:
- Office of Admissions and Student Affairs
By actively exploring these scholarship opportunities and financial aid options, students in the CDHL Track can effectively plan for and support their educational journey.
Admission Requirements
The B.S./M.S. Dual Degree Clinical Dental Hygiene Leader (CDHL) Track at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry is designed for individuals who already possess a bachelor's degree in a non-dental field and have completed the necessary prerequisite coursework. This program prepares students for leadership roles in various healthcare settings. Below are the detailed admission requirements:
1. Educational Background:
- Bachelor's Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in a field other than dental hygiene from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university.
2. Prerequisite Coursework:
3. Academic Performance:
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Grade Requirements: A minimum grade of 'C' is required in all prerequisite courses. Grades lower than 'C' are not accepted.
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Completion Timeline: The majority of prerequisite courses, including at least 16 credits of science courses, should be completed by the end of December prior to the intended summer enrollment. All prerequisite courses must be completed by the end of the spring semester before program entry.
4. Standardized Tests:
- English Proficiency: Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Minimum acceptable scores are:
- 80-85 on the internet-based test (iBT)
- 550 on the paper-based test
- 213 on the computer-based test
5. Additional Requirements:
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Dental Hygiene Shadowing: Completion of pre-application dental hygiene shadowing experiences is required.
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Recommendations: Submission of recommendation letters is part of the application process.
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Personal Statement: A personal statement outlining the applicant's interest and knowledge of the dental hygiene profession is required.
6. Application Process:
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Application System: Applicants must complete the ADEA Dental Hygiene Centralized Application Service (DHCAS) application, which includes uploading all supplemental materials such as transcripts, résumé, personal statement, recommendation letters, and shadowing form.
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Application Timeline: The application cycle is open from October 24 until February 15 for the following summer enrollment.
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Interview: Qualified candidates will be invited for an interview with members of the Committee on Dental Hygiene Recruitment and Admissions. A personal interview does not guarantee admission.
Prospective students are encouraged to review all requirements carefully and ensure that all materials are submitted by the specified deadlines. For detailed information, please refer to the University of Maryland School of Dentistry's admissions page.
Application Procedure
The B.S./M.S. Dual Degree Clinical Dental Hygiene Leader (CDHL) Track at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry is tailored for individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-dental field and have completed the necessary prerequisite coursework. This program equips students for leadership roles in various healthcare settings. Below is an overview of the application process:
Application Timeline:
- Application Period: The application cycle opens on October 24 and closes on February 15 for enrollment in the subsequent summer term.
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Application Steps:
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Complete the ADEA DHCAS Application:
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Submit Official Transcripts:
- Provide official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. If currently enrolled, ensure that transcripts include the latest fall semester grades. International transcripts must be evaluated by agencies such as WES or ECE.
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Provide Letters of Recommendation:
- Secure at least two recommendation letters: one from a college-level science instructor and another from a dental hygienist or dentist. These should be from non-family members.
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Prepare a Personal Statement:
- Compose a personal statement detailing your interest in and understanding of the dental hygiene profession.
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Complete Dental Hygiene Shadowing:
- Document a minimum of eight hours of observation under a licensed dental hygienist to gain insight into the profession.
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Update Your Résumé:
- Ensure your résumé is current and highlights relevant experiences and achievements.
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Submit the In-State Residency Form (if applicable):
- If seeking in-state tuition rates, complete and submit the residency form.
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Additional Considerations:
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Application Fee: There is a fee associated with the ADEA DHCAS application. Refer to the ADEA DHCAS website for current fee details.
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Interview Process: Qualified applicants will be invited for an interview with the Committee on Dental Hygiene Recruitment and Admissions. Note that an interview does not guarantee admission.
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International Applicants: Those whose native language is not English must submit TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency. Minimum acceptable scores are:
- 80-85 on the internet-based test (iBT)
- 550 on the paper-based test
- 213 on the computer-based test
For comprehensive details on the application process, please visit the University of Maryland School of Dentistry's admissions page.
Prospective students are encouraged to review all requirements meticulously and ensure timely submission of all materials.
