The University of Maryland School of Dentistry (UMSOD) offers two Dental Hygiene programs:

• Bachelor of Science (BS) in Dental Hygiene (2+2 Program): For students who have completed prerequisite coursework at another accredited college or university.
• Dual-Degree BS/MS Clinical Dental Hygiene Leader (CDHL) Program: Designed for applicants who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field. This two-year program integrates advanced clinical training with graduate-level coursework and a capstone project.

Learn more: UMSOD Dental Hygiene Programs

Applications are submitted through the ADEA Dental Hygiene Centralized Application Service (DHCAS) at ADEA DHCAS

Applicants upload all required materials directly to DHCAS, including:

• Official transcripts from all institutions attended
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation
• Dental hygiene shadowing form

The application cycle typically opens in late October and closes in mid-February. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure all materials are received by the deadline.

For detailed instructions: Application Instructions

Applications are reviewed by the Dental Hygiene Admissions Committee based on the information included in the application including the GPA. Selected applicants are invited for an in-person interview, which provides an opportunity to assess communication skills, professionalism, and overall fit for the program.

Please note that an interview invitation does not guarantee admission. Final decisions are based on a combination of academic performance, interview results, written materials, and overall readiness for the rigors of the program.

UMSOD admits 14 students per year:

• 8 students to the Bachelor of Science program
• 6 students to the Dual-Degree BS/MS Clinical Dental Hygiene Leader program

A list of prerequisite courses is available on our website:
Prerequisite Courses

Courses may be completed at any regionally accredited college or university, including community colleges.

Applicants must complete a Technical Writing course focused on professional or research-based writing rather than introductory composition.

Examples of acceptable courses include:

• Technical Writing for Health Professions
• Writing in the Disciplines (if focused on scientific or professional communication)
• Advanced Composition emphasizing clarity, conciseness, and structure

If you are unsure whether your course qualifies, please email the syllabus to umsoddhadvising@umaryland.edu for review.

The Dental Hygiene program does not provide individual advising appointments. However, our advising team is available by email to answer questions about prerequisites, course equivalencies, or the application process.

umsoddhadvising@umaryland.edu

Before emailing, please review the website and this FAQ, as many common questions are addressed here. ** We also provide virtual information sessions that are advertised on the main page of our website.

You can use the Course Equivalency Tables on our website to verify transferability. If your school is not listed, compare course descriptions carefully or contact your college advisor.
Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all prerequisite requirements are met before enrollment.

Yes. International applicants must:

• Complete all prerequisite courses at a regionally accredited U.S. institution.
• Submit TOEFL scores if English is not their first language (minimum iBT score of 80–85).
• Provide official transcript evaluations and documentation through DHCAS and the UMSOD International Services Office.

For more details: Application Requirements for International Students

The Admissions Committee evaluates applications holistically. Key factors include:

• Completion and strength of prerequisite coursework
• Overall and science GPA
• Quality of the personal statement
• Professionalism and written communication
• Shadowing experience
• Leadership and community engagement

Completion of prerequisites at a community college does not disadvantage applicants.

For general questions about prerequisites, application materials, or program structure, please email:

umsoddhadvising@umaryland.edu

Please allow up to five business days for a response.
For technical assistance with DHCAS, visit:
ADEA DHCAS Support