Advancing Careers in Dental Hygiene: Victoria Lohr’s Journey Through Ohio State’s Online Master of Science in Dental Hygiene Program

For dental hygienists looking to elevate their careers, The Ohio State University’s online Master of Science in Dental Hygiene (MSDH) program provides a pathway to success. With a flexible online format, expert faculty support, and real-world application, this program prepares students for leadership roles in academia, research, and beyond. Victoria Lohr, MSDH class of ‘25 and Graduate Teaching Associate (GTA) for the OSU College of Dentistry within the Division of Dental Hygiene, shares her experience and how the program has shaped her professional growth.

Preparing for a Career in Dental Hygiene Education 

“The MSDH program has prepared me for a career in dental hygiene education. I have been able to connect what I have learned in the curriculum regarding educational methodologies, teaching strategies, and more into my experiences with clinical and laboratory teaching as a GTA and during my internship. To advance my career, the program has taught me foundational knowledge regarding educational theory, provided firsthand teaching opportunities through my internship experience, and given me a taste of conducting research through my thesis project.”  

Victoria’s experience highlights how Ohio State’s MSDH program integrates coursework with hands-on opportunities, allowing students to apply their knowledge directly to teaching and research.  

Flexibility and Work-Life Balance 

For many professionals, returning to school while managing personal and professional responsibilities can seem overwhelming. However, Ohio State’s online format made it possible for Victoria to excel.  

“The online format was critical in supporting my learning but also maintaining my work-life balance. I hesitated to apply for the program because I did not know how I was going to manage going back to school and my personal responsibilities; however, the opportunity to complete my coursework online at my own pace was very helpful. The program is very well organized, and faculty are very supportive at ensuring students are successful and supported in their coursework and in their personal lives. They offer reasonable flexibility when something unexpected happens. This program truly has supported me in pursuing my career goals while also maintaining a work-life balance.”  

This balance is key for professionals looking to advance their education without putting their careers or personal lives on hold. 

Networking and Professional Growth 

One of the major benefits of the MSDH program is the opportunity to network and collaborate with faculty, peers, and alumni. Victoria’s experiences exemplify how these connections can lead to mentorship and career advancement.  

“As a student and faculty member (through being a GTA), there were many opportunities to collaborate and network with other OSU students and faculty. Through my internship experience, I worked closely with a faculty member as she encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone in planning course curriculum, creating new resources, and ultimately gaining experience in dental hygiene education and administration. This collaborative learning experience has also developed into a mentoring relationship, and I am incredibly grateful for her support and guidance not only while in this program but also beyond as I work towards my goals. Working as a GTA, I have had many opportunities to collaborate with many faculty members across various specialties, expanding my network of colleagues. I am confident these relationships that I have built will support me in pursuit of my career goals.”  

Research and Achievements 

Completing a thesis project is a significant milestone in the MSDH program, giving students firsthand experience in research and scholarly publication.  

“As part of the MSDH program, students must complete a thesis project. This involves planning and implementing a research project, analyzing the collected data, creating a document detailing their research and presenting it to their committee. Writing and defending a thesis is a significant accomplishment that students work on during the entire program. The faculty and my advisor have supported me tremendously in this endeavor and surely want each student to succeed with their project. It is also a requirement for this program to create a publication-ready document detailing your research, with the intent to pursue publication in a peer-reviewed journal. This process has given me a firsthand experience of conducting and presenting original research and pursuing my first career publication.”  

The research component of the MSDH program prepares students to contribute to the field of dental hygiene education through evidence-based practices and publications. 

Why Choose Ohio State’s MS in Dental Hygiene Program? 

For dental hygienists considering an advanced degree, Victoria strongly recommends Ohio State’s MSDH program.  

“I would recommend the MSDH program at The Ohio State University to any dental hygienist who is interested in pursuing a career in academia. The curriculum certainly prepares students with a foundational understanding of educational methodology and strategies; the internship experience gives students firsthand experiences with teaching in a context of the student’s choice, and the thesis experience provides students an opportunity to conduct original research and collaborate with other researchers, while being supported and guided by incredible faculty at a world-renowned university.”

Take the Next Step 

Ohio State’s online Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program offers a flexible, supportive, and career-focused educational experience. Whether you’re looking to transition into academia, expand your research skills, or advance in the field of dental hygiene, this program provides the tools and mentorship needed to achieve your goals. 

Ready to learn more? Visit Ohio State Online to explore all our program offerings, connect with an Enrollment Advisor, or start your application today. The application to the MS in Dental Hygiene program are typically due June 1st every year. The program reviews applications as they are submitted and only starts in the autumn term every year with a select cohort moving through the program together so start today! Your future advancing in the dental hygiene field awaits!