Interested in Furthering Your Education?
Jennifer Tuttle, BS, RDH
Ever since graduating dental hygiene school, I knew one day I wanted to pay it forward by becoming an instructor. After graduating from OHU, I realized that with my BS degree, I could only be a part-time faculty member but I wanted to be a full-time instructor.
When OHU announced that the University of Minnesota recognized our BS degree in Oral Health Promotion, I knew I had to make that leap of faith (again) and try it!
OHU graduates who want to pursue a Master’s degree in Dental Hygiene should look into UMN – MSDH program. They have two different tracks: Education Track or Management Track. Both tracks are fully online, except for a two-week clinic rotation for the Education Track.
The application process was very straight forward. First determine which track you want to pursue. Each track has different requirements, so make sure you have them all completed before applying. The online instructions are very thorough and easy to understand. Honestly, give yourself a few weeks to complete the application because you’ll need certain documents (transcripts, letters of recommendation, GMAT/GRE, etc.) I applied for the Education Track and was finally accepted June 2019 and will be graduating December 2021. UMN emailed me within a month of the application deadline date to let me know I’ve been accepted into the MSDH program.
I’m half-way done and so far, I think this is a great program. Each semester has two courses instructed by wonderful professors. I have come to appreciate the program more with each semester completed. The first semester is always scary, nervous and exciting all rolled up into one crazy emotion, but it is worth it. Yes, you must get used to a navigating a new website, using different programs and participating in online class meetings, via Zoom. This program is not for the faint and weary; a lot of studying and research is expected. It took me a little while to find my groove with time management of homework assignments and research projects, but once I found it- I was golden! Working a full-time job, 40 hours a week and going to school seemed impossible at first, but you can do it!
This next year is “Thesis-Time” and while I’m excited to start the last half of my program, I’ll be honest- I’m slightly nervous. Luckily UMN has amazing instructors and staff to help guide me and support me. I’ll update you all as I continue this journey! For more information, go to:
https://www.dentistry.umn.edu/degrees-programs/dental-hygiene/master-science
