RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene
February 15, 2025
May 11, 2026
A dental hygiene license is required to be admitted into this program. This program is designed for working licensed dental hygienists who hold an associate degree or certificate in dental hygiene from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program.
Advance your career in dental hygiene with this online degree completion program.
Elevate your career and expand your professional opportunities with Ohio State’s Online Dental Hygiene Baccalaureate Degree Completion Program. Designed specifically for licensed dental hygienists, this flexible and fully online program allows you to earn a Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene while balancing your existing work and personal commitments.
Whether you’re seeking leadership or administration roles, preparing for advanced studies, or looking to deepen your impact in patient care and public health, our program builds on your associate degree or certificate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program. With a strong emphasis on evidence-based practice and professional development, this degree completion program is your next step toward long-term career growth in the dental field.
Students will have the opportunity to participate in a stimulating and educational environment that combines the general education aspects of a baccalaureate degree with advanced education in dental hygiene. The courses included will provide an introduction to research methods and statistics used in dental and dental hygiene research, as well as the economic, management, and employment issues that impact dental hygiene practice today.
By completing this program, graduates are well-prepared to take on expanded roles in education, research, public health, and dental hygiene administration—or to pursue graduate-level education in related fields.
- 100% Online and Flexible: Study on your schedule with asynchronous courses designed for working professionals.
- Career-Focused Curriculum: Courses emphasize advanced topics in dental hygiene theory, healthcare policy, community oral health, practice management, and interprofessional collaboration.
- Research and Leadership Preparation: Learn the fundamentals of research methods, biostatistics, and how to critically evaluate current dental hygiene literature.
- Taught by Expert Faculty: Gain insights from experienced educators and researchers in Ohio State’s nationally recognized College of Dentistry.
- Networking and Community: Join a community of driven dental hygiene professionals dedicated to lifelong learning and improved patient care.
100% Online and Flexible: Study on your schedule with asynchronous courses designed for working professionals.
- Research methods and statistical analysis in dental research
- Dental hygiene practice management and supervision
- Healthcare economics and workforce trends
- Public and community health principles
Nationally recognized by U.S. News & World Report
The Ohio State University online bachelor’s programs are ranked No. 5 nationally – marking its place within the top 10 for the 10th time since online programs were first ranked at Ohio State 12 years ago. Ohio State is also the only institution in Ohio to be ranked within the top 50 for undergraduate online programs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers we hope you find helpful. Please know that our team of Academic Enrollment Advisors are always ready to connect and answer any questions that are specific to your unique needs.
The time to complete the RDH to BSDH program varies. Students can move at their own pace through the courses which includes 55 credit hours. Typically the program takes at least 4 semesters to complete but can take anywhere from 1 to 5 years depending on how fast (or slow) the student prefers to go.
If you are a dental hygienist looking for a career change or path beyond clinical practice, this online dental hygiene RDH to BS program is for you. The skills and knowledge you gain with an online dental hygienist degree will prepare you to grow in areas like dental hygiene research, administration, business, and management.
As Ohio’s only state-supported dental school, The Ohio State University College of Dentistry has embraced its public purpose of educating exceptionally capable and compassionate dental hygiene and dental professionals, providing care to patients, conducting cutting-edge research, and serving the community.
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“If I could describe this program in one word, it’s passion. The faculty are passionate, the program is structured with purpose, and it reignites your own passion for dental hygiene.”
Jennifer Barkans RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene Graduate -
“My main motivation to pursue the RDH to BS program was to transition into the academic side of dental hygiene. I saw the program as an opportunity to open the door to teaching clinical and possibly didactic dental hygiene courses in the future.”
Hasan Al-Safi RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene Graduate -
One of the great things about this degree completion program at Ohio State is it’s all online. It’s great to balance with work life…some days I would work 8-4 and some days I would work 1-7, and I could fit schoolwork in between.
Joe Osborne RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene Graduate -
“I knew I wanted to expand my education, and completing my degree felt like the right first step.”
Jennifer Barkans RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene Graduate
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Learn how Hasan used Ohio State’s online RDH to BS, program to launch his academic career.
For Hasan Al-Safi, RDH, pursuing a Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene at The Ohio State University was more than a degree—it was a stepping stone toward a future in academia and dentistry.
Jennifer Barkans expands her career with the RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene completion program
Learn how Jennifer Barkans evolved her dental hygiene career through flexible learning and real-world application.
Why Pursue an RDH to BS in Dental Hygiene Degree?
Learn how a BS Dental Hygiene degree can expand job opportunities, earning potential, and help you make a greater impact in the field.
Academic Calendar
For the convenience of online students, multiple start dates are offered during the academic calendar year for the online RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene program.
Academic Calendar
For the convenience of online students, multiple start dates are offered during the academic calendar year for the online RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene program.
Admission Criteria
In order to qualify for this RDH to BSDH program you must be a licensed dental hygienists in the state in which you practice. In general, applicants must hold an associate degree or certificate in dental hygiene and have graduate from an accredited dental hygiene program, earning a passing score on the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and state or regional examinations (licensure requirements may vary by state).
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.70 or higher.
- Completion of a college mathematics course at the level of OSU Math 1116 or higher, Stats 1350 or higher with a grade of C- or above prior to program entry.
Application Details
The Dental Hygiene RDH-BS Baccalaureate Degree Completion Program is an Undergraduate Professional Program and the application is available in the Undergraduate Professional Degree application section.
Students must submit official transcripts from every college/university where they have earned credit.
Transcripts are required from all colleges previously attended.
Students who are enrolled in their entry level dental hygiene program in spring semester should submit a current transcript with the application then submit a final transcript after spring semester grades have been added.
For current students and recent graduates, one letter should be from the director of the dental hygiene program and the second can be from the clinical supervisor, a faculty member, or an employer.
Applicants who have been in practice for more than one year can submit two letter from employers or colleagues.
A non-refundable application fee of $60 is required. Ohio State alumni may be elifible for an admission fee waiver.
The Ohio State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA).
SARA is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Institutions participating in SARA can offer educational opportunities in all 49 SARA member states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without seeking individual approval in each state.
California is not a SARA member state, however, OSU may offer online courses and programs to students located in California under the California Private Post-Secondary Act of 2009.
The Application Process
Once you understand your program’s admission criteria, please note the application deadline. You’ll need a quiet space and a variety of materials for your application. To learn more, please see our Admissions page for the full process. Ready to Apply? Find your application here.
Career Outlook
If you are a dental hygienist looking for a career change or path beyond clinical practice, this online dental hygiene RDH to BS program is for you. The skills and knowledge you gain with an online dental hygienist degree will prepare you to grow in areas like dental hygiene research, administration, business, and management.
Top Occupations by Median Income
What They Do
Construct and repair full or partial dentures or dental appliances.
Work Activities
Read prescriptions or specifications and examine models or impressions to determine the design of dental products to be constructed. Test appliances for conformance to specifications and accuracy of occlusion, using articulators and micrometers. Fabricate, alter, or repair dental devices, such as dentures, crowns, bridges, inlays, or appliances for straightening teeth.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $36,100
- Mid Level: $48,310
- Senior Level: $78,680
Job Outlook
Below Average
Related Careers
- Dental Assistants
- Medical Appliance Technicians
- Medical Equipment Repairers
- Molders, Shapers, and Casters, Except Metal and Plastic
- Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians
Job Sectors
- Administration and Management
- Design
- English Language
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Production and Processing
What They Do
Administer oral hygiene care to patients. Assess patient oral hygiene problems or needs and maintain health records. Advise patients on oral health maintenance and disease prevention. May provide advanced care such as providing fluoride treatment or administering topical anesthesia.
Work Activities
Record and review patient medical histories. Feel and visually examine gums for sores and signs of disease. Examine gums, using probes, to locate periodontal recessed gums and signs of gum disease.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $66,470
- Mid Level: $94,260
- Senior Level: $120,060
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Dental Assistants
- Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses
- Medical Assistants
- Ophthalmic Medical Technicians
- Surgical Assistants
Job Sectors
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Customer and Personal Service
- Psychology
What They Do
Provide and manage health education programs that help individuals, families, and their communities maximize and maintain healthy lifestyles. Use data to identify community needs prior to planning, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating programs designed to encourage healthy lifestyles, policies, and environments. May link health systems, health providers, insurers, and patients to address individual and population health needs. May serve as resource to assist individuals, other health professionals, or the community, and may administer fiscal resources for health education programs.
Work Activities
Prepare and distribute health education materials, such as reports, bulletins, and visual aids, to address smoking, vaccines, and other public health concerns. Develop and maintain cooperative working relationships with agencies and organizations interested in public health care. Maintain databases, mailing lists, telephone networks, and other information to facilitate the functioning of health education programs.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $42,210
- Mid Level: $63,000
- Senior Level: $112,900
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Community Health Workers
- Health Informatics Specialists
- Healthcare Social Workers
- Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary
- Rehabilitation Counselors
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- Education and Training
- English Language
- Administrative
- Psychology
What They Do
Perform routine medical laboratory tests for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. May work under the supervision of a medical technologist.
Work Activities
Conduct chemical analyses of body fluids, such as blood or urine, using microscope or automatic analyzer to detect abnormalities or diseases and enter findings into computer. Analyze the results of tests or experiments to ensure conformity to specifications, using special mechanical or electrical devices. Set up, maintain, calibrate, clean, and test sterility of medical laboratory equipment.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $38,020
- Mid Level: $61,890
- Senior Level: $97,990
Job Outlook
Average
Related Careers
- Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians
- Cytogenetic Technologists
- Histology Technicians
- Histotechnologists
- Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists
Job Sectors
- Biology
- Chemistry
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Customer and Personal Service
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate clinical research projects. Direct the activities of workers engaged in clinical research projects to ensure compliance with protocols and overall clinical objectives. May evaluate and analyze clinical data.
Work Activities
Schedule subjects for appointments, procedures, or inpatient stays as required by study protocols. Perform specific protocol procedures such as interviewing subjects, taking vital signs, and performing electrocardiograms. Assess eligibility of potential subjects through methods such as screening interviews, reviews of medical records, or discussions with physicians and nurses.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $79,830
- Mid Level: $161,180
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Clinical Data Managers
- Clinical Nurse Specialists
- Health Informatics Specialists
- Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
- Social Science Research Assistants
Job Sectors
- Customer and Personal Service
- English Language
- Administrative
- Medicine and Dentistry
What They Do
Perform complex medical laboratory tests for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. May train or supervise staff.
Work Activities
Conduct chemical analysis of body fluids, including blood, urine, or spinal fluid, to determine presence of normal or abnormal components. Analyze laboratory findings to check the accuracy of the results. Operate, calibrate, or maintain equipment used in quantitative or qualitative analysis, such as spectrophotometers, calorimeters, flame photometers, or computer-controlled analyzers.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $38,020
- Mid Level: $61,890
- Senior Level: $97,990
Job Outlook
Average
Related Careers
- Cytogenetic Technologists
- Cytotechnologists
- Histology Technicians
- Histotechnologists
- Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Job Sectors
- Biology
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Customer and Personal Service
- Chemistry
- English Language
National occupational information in Ohio State Online’s Career Outlook tool is sourced from O*NET Online and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage displayed to the right of each occupational title above is based on the BLS Employment Projections program. Outlook and percent change indicate projected growth or decline over the next 10 years.
Curriculum
The dental hygiene degree completion program at Ohio State prepare dental hygienists with the skills they need for research, administration, business and leadership. Below is a sample of program courses and does not reflect the course content for the entire program.
This course covers the application of evidence-based practice and foundational research concepts. Includes the identification of various types of research, research problems, literature analysis, and research methodology. Prerequisites include admission to the BDCP. This course will contain asynchronous class sessions.
Expand the dental hygienists’ knowledge in the development of management skills in the evolving dental care delivery model.
This course covers the application of evidence-based dental hygiene practice. Content will focus on evidence based clinical care and associated technologies and advancements in dental hygiene.
Provides an in-depth exploration of the principles and practices of interprofessional collaboration of dental healthcare.
This course will cover the fundamental skills required for effective leadership in a dental healthcare setting. The course explores leadership skills and styles, relationship building, conflict resolution, personal accountability and leadership through change. Students discuss the core theory and concepts of leadership and the principles of organizational change.
Area of Specialization
Select Dental Hygiene Education, Public Health or Dental Hygiene Individualized.
- Dental Hygiene Education introduces students to the career option of education as a profession. Dental hygiene and adult education theory and concepts are the major components of this specialization. Requirements: DH 4620 (3) and 4630 (3).
- Public Health is an integral part of health care and dentistry and allows students to build upon the introductory public health and statistical knowledge that they explore in Community Oral Health, Research Application and Analysis, and Oral Health Behavioral Management. Several of the areas within public health: epidemiology, biostatistics, and health behavior promotion, fit well with the study of dental hygiene and would enhance the student’s ability to address needs in the community. Requirements: Students will complete the required DENTHYG 4880 (3)– Public Health and the Role of the Hygienist and select 3 additional hours from the approved list of classes through the College of Public Health: PUBHLTH 2010 (3), PUBHEPI 2410 (3), PUBHEPI 4410 (3), PUBHHBP 3510 (3), PUBHHMP 3610 (3), PUBHBIO 2210 (3), and PUBHEHS 3310 (3).
- In the Individualized Program, students are encouraged to design an area of specialization of their own choosing. Please discuss with the assistant director and forward a curriculum plan and rationale to the Dental Hygiene Curriculum Committee for approval. We encourage you to consider business, public health, research or other areas that may prepare you for graduate programs or specific career goals. Previously earned credit will not be considered as hours toward the specialization. Requirements: 6 hours of approved course work at the 2000 level or above.
Understanding Online Course Types
As you research the right online program for you, you likely will come across the terms “asynchronous” and “synchronous.” Learn what these terms mean and how they’re important to consider when understanding how a program will fit into your life.
Learn More
Transferring into the Baccalaureate degree completion program?
Considering transferring into the RDH-BS degree completion program? There is a lot of consider. Please reach out to one of our expert Enrollment Advisors to learn more about the process and which courses are transferable.
General Education – Theme: Citizenship for a Diverse & Just credits)orld (4-6)
General Education – Theme: Student Choice (4-6 credits)
General Education – GE Seminar Course (9-13 credits)
Dental Hygiene – DH 3860 Critical Appraisal and Analysis of Evidence (3 credits)
Dental Hygiene – DH 4860 Advanced Dental Hygiene Science (3 credits)
Dental Hygiene – DH 3870 Current Concepts in Dental Care Delivery Models (3 credits)
Dental Hygiene – DH 4870 Leadership in Profession of DHY (3 credits)
Dental Hygiene – DH 3880 Principles of Interprofessional Practice in Dental Care Delivery System (3 credits)
Area of Specialization (select Dental Hygiene Education, Public Health or Dental Hygiene Individualized) (6-8 credits)
Program Faculty
The Ohio State University College of Dentistry is proud to offer the only dental school-based dental hygiene program in Ohio.
Rebecca P. Henderson, BSDH, MS
Interim Chair & Associate Professor – Clinical
Professor Henderson is currently the Interim Chair for the Division of Dental Hygiene within the College of Dentistry at The Ohio State University as well as the Program Director for the RDH to BS, Dental Hygiene completion program. She is currently the course director for undergraduate courses: Intro to Periodontology, Periodontal Therapies, Integrated Sciences, and the Dental Hygiene Senior Seminar. She teaches Practice Management for the Periodontology resident/masters students. She has previously taught undergraduate courses in Dental Anatomy, Pain & Anxiety Management, Oral Health and Disease Prevention, Community Dental Health, Geriatrics as well as Clinical & Laboratory Teaching for masters in dental hygiene students.
Professor Henderson is the recipient of the 2022 & 2017 Student Government Association – Best Didactic Instructor, the 2018 Postle Teaching Award, and the Class of 2015 – Outstanding Instructor Award. Professor Henderson is a question writer for the ADA’s National Dental Hygiene Board Exam – Test Construction Committee, as a periodontal content expert for Cases, Part II, and DHLOSCE exams. She is also a proud past-president of the Dental Alumni Society and is a delegate for the Council of Allied Program Directors for the American Dental Education Association 2024 annual session.
Clinical Interests
Faculty development and on-boarding, effective treatment planning and dental coding, along with the use of technology in education. Clinically, best practices in periodontal treatment procedures, local anesthesia and nitrous oxide techniques and outcomes, and the safety and effects of electronic cigarettes.
Denise Kissell BSDH, EFDA, MPH
Associate Professor – Clinical
Rachel C. Kearney, BSDH, PhD
Associate Dean, Pre-Doctoral Education and Student Life & Associate Professor
Bridget M. Wright, BSDH, MACPR
Assistant Professor – Clinical
Testimonials
See what students and graduates are saying about this online dental hygiene program.
“If it’s been one year since you’ve been out of school or 10 years, it’s never too late to go back in. There’s always ways to make it happen.”
“One of the great things about this degree completion program at Ohio State is it’s all online. It’s great to balance with work life…some days I would work 8-4 and some days I would work 1-7, and I could fit schoolwork in between.”
Tuition Fee Overview
Investing in your future with a higher education degree is one of the best investments you can make for your future success. At Ohio State, we know understanding your program’s cost is an important part of your decision-making process. Below are the tuition fees you can expect with your program. Actual costs may vary. Estimates are based on the expenses typical of an Ohio State Online student, who would take 6 credit hours each semester as a part-time undergraduate student (or 8 credit hours for graduate programs), or 12 credit hours (for undergraduate programs) each semester as a full-time student.
The credit hours for the RDH to Bachelor of Science completion program is 55 credit hours. If you have transfer credits that are reviewed and approved, your total cost may vary. The tuition calculator reflects 55 credit hours so individual’s totals may vary depending on their total credits needed for completion.
| Tuition and Fees | Per Credit Hour (unless otherwise noted) | Part-Time – Estimated Cost Per Semester (based on 6 cr. hours/semester) | Full-Time – Estimated Cost Per Semester (based on 12 cr. hours/semester) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instructional Fee | $522.71 | $3,136.26 | $6,272.50 |
| General Fee | $23.79 | $142.74 | $285.50 |
| Distance Learning Fee | $100 (per semester) | $100 (per semester) | $100 (per semester) |
| Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable) | $200 (per semester) | $200 (per semester) | $200 (per semester) |
| International Surcharge (if applicable) | $200 (per semester) | $200 (per semester) | $200 (per semester) |
Tuition fees are subject to change. The table above serves as a guide and not an official bursar’s bill. Full-Time costs are total tuition costs per semester.
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