Frequently Asked Questions

What is the RDH-to-BSDH Completion Concentration?

The RDH-to-BSDH Completion Concentration at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center is a degree-completion option within the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH) program. It is designed for licensed dental hygienists who have completed an associate degree in dental hygiene and wish to earn a bachelor's degree to expand their professional opportunities.

Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must:

• Graduated from a CODA-accredited entry-level dental hygiene program
• Hold an active, unrestricted U.S. dental hygiene license
• Be actively engaged in the practice of dental hygiene
• Submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended

When can I apply?

Applications are accepted for Spring admission. All application materials must be submitted by the published application deadline to be considered for admission.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted online through the UTHSC Office of Admissions.

UTHSC Admissions Application Portal

Is the program online?

Yes. All courses in the RDH-to-BSDH Completion Concentration are delivered fully online in an asynchronous format, allowing students to complete coursework on their own schedules while meeting course deadlines.

Can I continue working while enrolled?

Yes. The program was specifically designed for working dental hygienists. The asynchronous format and flexible progression options allow students to balance professional, family, and educational commitments.

How long does it take to complete the program?

Students following the suggested plan of study can complete the concentration in approximately 12 months. Students may also choose a reduced course load and progress through the program at a pace that best fits their schedule.

How many credit hours are required?

A total of 120 credit hours is required for the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene degree.

The credit-hour structure includes:

What is Prior Learning Assessment (PLA)?

Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) allows students to earn academic credit for documented knowledge, skills, and competencies gained through professional experience and previous learning.

Students develop a professional portfolio that is evaluated through a formal review process. Up to 18 credit hours may be awarded through PLA.

Will my previous dental hygiene coursework transfer?

Yes. Students receive transfer credit for coursework completed in a CODA-accredited or equivalent dental hygiene program. Clinical education completed as part of an accredited dental hygiene curriculum is also recognized through transfer credit.

What courses will I take?

The curriculum focuses on leadership, research, health promotion, advocacy, healthcare systems, program planning, and professional growth.

Courses include:

• Evidence-Based Research
• Access to Oral Health Care
• Applied Health Promotion Methods
• Interprofessional Collaboration in Oral Healthcare
• Program Planning and Implementation
• Professional Leadership and Advocacy
• Emerging Trends in Dental Hygiene or Global Health Care Systems
• Dental Hygiene Capstone
• Dental Hygiene Practicum
• Prior Learning Assessment Portfolio Courses

Are there clinical requirements?

Students do not repeat entry-level clinical dental hygiene coursework. The program includes a supervised practicum completed during the final term, which allows students to apply their knowledge in professional or community settings.

What is the Dental Hygiene Practicum?

The practicum is a supervised experience completed during the final term of the program. Students engage in activities related to health promotion, education, leadership, advocacy, and collaborative practice in professional or community settings.

What is the Capstone course?

The Capstone is a culminating project completed during the final term. Students integrate the knowledge and skills gained throughout the program by completing a comprehensive professional project under the guidance of a faculty advisor.

Do I have to complete the practicum and capstone together?  

Yes. Both the Dental Hygiene Practicum and Dental Hygiene Capstone must be completed during the final term of the program.

What grades are required to remain in good standing?  

Students must earn a grade of C or higher in all required courses.

How long do I have to finish the program?  

All coursework must be completed within five years of initial enrollment.

What career opportunities can a BSDH degree support?  

A bachelor's degree can prepare dental hygienists for expanded professional opportunities, including:

• Dental hygiene education
  • Community and public health programs
  • Healthcare administration
  • Corporate and industry positions
  • Research and evidence-based practice
  • Professional leadership and advocacy roles
  • Program development and management
  • Graduate and professional education

Why should I pursue a BSDH degree?

Earning a BSDH can help expand your professional opportunities while building skills in leadership, research, education, health promotion, advocacy, and interprofessional collaboration. The degree prepares dental hygienists to make a broader impact on oral health beyond traditional clinical practice.

Who can I contact for additional information?

For questions regarding admissions, transfer credits, curriculum planning, or the application process, please get in touch with the UTHSC Admissions Department or Catherine Parker in the Dental Hygiene Department at catcbarg@uthsc.edu.

Are campus visits required?

No. The RDH-to-BSDH Completion Concentration is fully online, and students are not required to visit campus. Students are welcome to participate in the University of Tennessee Health Science Center graduation ceremony, but it is optional.

Can students from outside Tennessee apply?  

Yes. Licensed dental hygienists from any U.S. state may apply, provided they meet the program’s admission requirements, including graduation from a CODA-accredited entry-level dental hygiene program and an active, unrestricted U.S. dental hygiene license.

Can I begin the program soon after graduating from dental hygiene school?

Yes. Students may apply to the RDH-to-BSDH Completion Concentration as soon as they graduate from dental hygiene school, provided they meet the admission requirements by the time of enrollment. This includes holding an active, unrestricted U.S. dental hygiene license and being actively engaged in dental hygiene practice.

What technology is required for online coursework?

Students will need reliable high-speed internet access and a computer capable of supporting online learning platforms, video conferencing, word processing, presentation software, and file uploads. A laptop or desktop computer is recommended rather than relying solely on a tablet or smartphone.

Students should also have access to a webcam, microphone, and speakers or headphones for occasional virtual meetings, presentations, or collaboration activities. Specific software and technology requirements will be provided before the start of the program.

What support services are available for online students?

Students in the RDH-to-BSDH Completion Concentration have access to the same academic and student-support resources available to other University of Tennessee Health Science Center students. Support may include academic advising, faculty guidance, library resources, writing and research assistance, technology support, financial-aid services, disability services, counseling and wellness resources, and career-development support.

Faculty members are available to guide students throughout the program, including assistance with course planning, the Prior Learning Assessment portfolio process, the practicum, and the capstone project.