Dental Hygiene

The Bachelor of Dental Hygiene (BDH) program at The University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in oral health care. This program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical experience, enabling graduates to provide high-quality dental hygiene services within diverse healthcare settings. Students will develop a strong foundation in the biological sciences, dental sciences, and health promotion, along with essential skills in patient care, communication, and community health. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, and cultural competence to ensure that graduates are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients and communities. Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on training in state-of-the-art clinical facilities, working closely with faculty and licensed practitioners to refine their clinical skills and professional judgment. The program also includes opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, research, and community outreach, fostering a holistic approach to oral health. Upon graduation, students will be eligible to write licensing examinations and pursue licensure to practice as a registered dental hygienist in British Columbia and beyond. With a strong focus on preventative care and health promotion, the Bachelor of Dental Hygiene prepares students for a variety of professional roles — from clinical practice and community health education to public health policy and research initiatives. The program’s flexibility and supportive learning environment empower students to succeed academically and personally, ensuring they are prepared to make a meaningful impact on individuals’ oral health and overall well-being. Whether you are starting your career in dental hygiene or seeking to advance your expertise, UBC’s Bachelor of Dental Hygiene program provides the knowledge, skills, and professional development opportunities necessary to excel in this vital healthcare field.

The Bachelor of Dental Hygiene program at The University of British Columbia – Vancouver is a comprehensive and progressive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in oral health care. This program emphasizes the development of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to provide exceptional dental hygiene services in a variety of clinical and community settings. Over the course of the program, students will engage in rigorous coursework that covers essential topics such as oral anatomy, periodontology, radiography, dental materials, pathology, public health, and patient management.

The curriculum integrates classroom instruction with extensive clinical practice, enabling students to acquire hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced faculty and licensed dental hygienists. In clinical settings, students learn to conduct oral health assessments, develop personalized treatment plans, perform various dental hygiene procedures, and educate patients on maintaining optimal oral health. The program also emphasizes interprofessional collaboration, cultural competency, and ethical practice, preparing graduates to serve diverse populations with sensitivity and professionalism.

Additionally, the program incorporates emerging topics such as infection control, pain management, and oral health promotion, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to adapt to advancements in dental technology and evolving patient needs. Throughout their studies, students have access to modern dental laboratories and resources that foster innovation and confidence in their clinical skills.

Graduates of the program are qualified to take registered dental hygiene licensing examinations and pursue employment opportunities across private practices, community health organizations, educational institutions, and research settings. The University of British Columbia’s commitment to excellence in education and research ensures that students receive a high-quality, evidence-based education that prepares them for a successful career dedicated to improving oral health and overall well-being.

The Bachelor of Dental Hygiene (BDH) program at The University of British Columbia - Vancouver requires applicants to have completed prerequisite courses including Biology, Chemistry, and Math at the high school or post-secondary level. Prospective students must submit official transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, covering topics such as oral health sciences, patient care, community health, and dental radiography. Admission is competitive, with preference given to applicants demonstrating strong academic performance, relevant volunteer or work experience, and a keen interest in dental health promotion. Once admitted, students undertake a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom learning with clinical practice. The clinical component involves supervised patient care, allowing students to develop proficiency in managing diverse dental hygiene cases. Program coursework includes courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, dental anatomy, periodontology, nutrition, and ethics in healthcare. Emphasis is placed on interprofessional collaboration and evidence-based practice. Students are also required to participate in community-based projects that promote oral health awareness. The program is designed to prepare graduates for licensure and practice as registered dental hygienists, providing them with the skills needed to improve oral health outcomes in various settings. Graduates are expected to be competent in preventative dental care, patient education, and leading health promotion initiatives. The program offers opportunities for research, professional development, and networking within the dental health community. Upon successful completion, students are eligible to write the licensing examinations required to practice as a registered dental hygienist in British Columbia and Canada.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Tuition fees for the Dental Hygiene program at The University of British Columbia – Vancouver vary depending on the student's residency status and whether they are domestic or international students. For domestic students, the approximate annual tuition fee is around $2,500 to $3,000 CAD. International students can expect to pay significantly higher tuition, approximately $14,000 to $20,000 CAD per year. These figures cover the basic tuition costs and do not include additional expenses such as textbooks, supplies, healthcare, and living costs.

Financial aid options are available to help students offset the costs of their studies. The university offers a range of scholarships and bursaries specifically for health sciences students, including those enrolled in Dental Hygiene. These awards are often merit-based, need-based, or targeted towards specific groups. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the university’s Financial Aid and Awards Office for detailed information and application procedures.

In addition to university-sponsored funding opportunities, students may also consider external scholarships, government grants, and student loan programs. The Canadian federal and provincial governments provide financial assistance through student loan programs, which often feature favorable repayment terms and interest rates. There are also private organizations and foundations that offer scholarships to students pursuing health-related degrees.

Part-time work opportunities are available on and near campus, allowing students to gain relevant experience while supporting their studies financially. The university’s Career Services Centre can assist students in finding employment opportunities tailored to their schedules and academic commitments.

Cost of living in Vancouver also plays a significant role in the overall financing of studies. Students should budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses. On-campus housing options are available but tend to be more costly than shared apartments or living with family. The average monthly living expense in Vancouver for students can range from $1,200 to $2,000 CAD.

Overall, financing a Dental Hygiene program at UBC involves planning for tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs, with opportunities for financial aid and work-study to ease financial burdens. Students are advised to start the financial planning process early and explore all available funding sources to ensure a smooth academic experience.

The Bachelor of Dental Hygiene (BDH) program at The University of British Columbia (UBC) in Vancouver is a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to prepare students for a career in dental hygiene. This program emphasizes the development of clinical skills, knowledge of dental sciences, patient care, community health, and professional ethics. Students enrolled in the program learn to provide preventive oral health care, diagnosis, and treatment planning under the supervision of licensed dentists. The curriculum combines classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical practice to ensure graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce confidently. The program also focuses on interprofessional collaboration, health promotion, and the latest advances in dental technology to adapt to the evolving field. Admission requirements typically include a strong academic record, prerequisite courses in sciences, and relevant health-related experience. Upon graduation, students are eligible to write the licensing examinations required for certification as a Dental Hygienist by the regulatory authority in British Columbia. The program aims to foster a commitment to community service, lifelong learning, and ethical practice. UBC’s Vancouver campus provides state-of-the-art facilities, research opportunities, and connections with local health organizations to support student education. The program duration is usually four years for the direct-entry Bachelor of Dental Hygiene, preparing students for diverse roles in dental clinics, community health centers, and educational institutions. Graduates of UBC’s Dental Hygiene program are recognized both provincially and nationally, contributing to improving oral health outcomes and advancing the profession through evidence-based practice. The curriculum is periodically reviewed to incorporate innovations in dental science and public health policies, ensuring relevance and excellence in dental hygiene education.