Which dental hygiene specialization is right for you?

As a registered dental hygienist, you already play an essential role in helping patients achieve better oral health. But if you’re ready to advance your career, broaden your impact, or prepare for new professional opportunities, completing your bachelor’s degree can open exciting new paths. 

The Ohio State University online RDH to Bachelor of Science completion program (RDH to BS) is designed for licensed dental hygienists who want to build on their associate degree and clinical experience. This flexible, fully online program allows students to specialize in an area that fits their career goals—whether that’s teaching, public health, or a customized path tailored to your interests.  

1. Dental Hygiene Education: shape the next generation of hygienists

If you’ve ever thought about mentoring or teaching future dental professionals, the Dental Hygiene Education specialization could be the perfect fit. 

This track introduces students to the principles of dental hygiene education, classroom instruction, and clinical supervision. You’ll gain foundational knowledge in curriculum design and teaching strategies, preparing you for roles such as: 

• Dental hygiene instructor or clinical educator 

• Program or curriculum coordinator 

• Continuing education facilitator 

Graduates who pursue this path often find it rewarding to inspire and guide the next generation of hygienists—helping others build confidence and clinical expertise just as their instructors once did for them.  

2. Public Health: make an impact on community oral health 

If your passion extends beyond the dental chair to the health of entire communities, the Public Health specialization may be your best path forward. 

This option focuses on improving access to care, addressing oral health disparities, and promoting prevention at the population level. Students study topics such as: 

• Epidemiology – understanding disease patterns and determinants 

• Biostatistics – analyzing health data to guide public health decisions 

• Health behavior promotion – developing programs that encourage positive oral health habits 

Graduates often pursue roles in community health organizations, public health departments, or non-profit settings—making a difference where it’s needed most.

3. Individualized Program: design your own path

If you have unique professional goals or want to tailor your education to a specific interest area, the Individualized Program track allows you to customize your specialization. 

Working closely with an academic advisor, students can build a curriculum that aligns with their career goals or future graduate studies. Popular areas of focus include but are not limited to: 

• Psychology – exploring behavioral science, mental health, and patient motivation 

• Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) – focusing on care across the lifespan, including pediatric, adolescent, adult, or geriatric populations 

• Business or leadership-related coursework – supporting career growth into management, administration, or organizational roles 

• Research-focused coursework – for students interested in evidence-based practice or academic pathways 

This individualized approach allows students to deepen their expertise in working with specific populations or advancing their professional focus while maintaining flexibility. It’s also important to note that some Individualized Program tracks may have on-campus requirements, which is why it is important to work closely with your Enrollment Advisor to determine which specialized track is right for you.  

Choosing the right path  

When deciding which dental hygiene specialization is right for you, consider: 

• Your career goals – Do you want to teach, work in public health, or focus on a specific population? 

• Your interests – Which topics keep you engaged and motivated? 

• Your future plans – Are you preparing for graduate school or looking to expand your role within the dental or healthcare field? 

Students in the Ohio State Online RDH to BS program receive personalized academic advising to help select a specialization that aligns with their strengths, interests, and long-term goals.  

Take the next step in your dental hygiene career  

Whether you want to educate future hygienists, improve community oral health, or customize a degree that supports your professional goals, The Ohio State University’s online RDH to Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene program gives you the flexibility to define your future.

Explore your options, personalize your learning experience, and take the next step in your dental hygiene career—while balancing work, life, and education. Reach out to one of our expert Enrollment Advisors to learn more or start your application today.