Dental Hygiene/Dental Therapy Admissions

Learn about the admissions requirements, prerequisites and application deadlines for the bachelor of science in dental hygiene and master of science in dental therapy. 

Admissions for Pacific University’s MS in dental therapy program follows the same rigorous standards and timeline as the dental hygiene (BSDH) program, emphasizing academic preparedness, professional motivation and the ability to be a compassionate dental therapist. The following admissions requirements, deadlines and instructions apply to both dental hygiene and dental therapy programs.

Admissions Requirements

• Prerequisite Courses: Satisfactory completion of all prerequisites.
• Minimum GPA: 2.5 GPA in the natural sciences prerequisites and last 45 semester credits.
• Dental Experience: Recommended 20 hours of observation or experience in a dental setting (public health settings preferred).
• English Language Proficiency: Meet English language proficiency requirements if English is not your native language.
• ADEA DHCAS Application: Complete an online application through the DHCAS (Dental Hygiene Centralized Application Service) by March 1. The admissions committee will consider the thoroughness of your application, your writing ability in personal narratives, your understanding of the dental hygiene profession, and your community activities.
• Matriculation Criteria: Applicants that are admitted will also need to complete matriculation requirements such as immunizations, background checks and other administrative tasks prior to beginning the program.

Questions? Please reach out to your admissions counselor at the contact information below. You can also review our frequently asked questions.

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How to Apply

• Explore the dental hygiene and dental therapy professions: We recommend 20 hours of observation, preferably in a public health dental setting. Attend our virtual information night in early February, or contact our dedicated admissions counselor to learn more about our programs.  
• Join us for a virtual information session.
• Complete the FAFSA: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is your pathway to receiving financial aid. Complete your FAFSA by March 1 to be eligible for the most amount of aid.
• Apply through the ADEA DHCAS: Submit your application online through the DHCAS system. Your application will include:
  • Transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended sent directly to ADEA DHCAS.
  • A resume/CV listing activities, accomplishments, health-related experience, observation experience, community service/volunteer work, and other employment.
  • Responses to essay questions sharing your goals and experiences.
  • English proficiency scores, if applicable.
• Attend an interview: Qualified applicants will be invited to participate in an interview in April. The interview is a strong contributing factor in the admission decision. It allows the Admissions Committee to assess essential skills and factors that may not be reflected in the application. Consideration is given to knowledge of the profession, motivation toward a career as a dental hygienist, ability to think clearly and logically, self-confidence and verbal expression of ideas.