Dental hygienists are licensed members of the dental health care team who strive to improve the oral health of the public through preventive services and education. They have special clinical and educational skills, an aptitude for science and a genuine concern for people.

Pre-dental hygiene students pursue a course of study to fulfill requirements that involves approximately two years of study at UMBC, completing prerequisite coursework. Students then complete their professional studies in dental hygiene at another institution and do not receive a degree from UMBC.

Students also have the option of remaining at UMBC to earn a bachelor’s degree before moving on to professional studies in dental hygiene at another institution.

The Office for Academic and Pre-Professional Advising  can assist students interested in pursuing the pre-dental hygiene curriculum.

The coursework below meets the requirements for most nationally accredited dental hygiene programs. Students should become familiar with the requirements of the school(s) from which they eventually wish to obtain their professional degree.