Advanced Dental Therapy (MS)
Degree
Master of Science
Major Credits
37
Total Credits
37
Time to Completion
2-3 years
Locations
Mankato
Overview
The Master of Science in Advanced Dental Therapy program offered by Minnesota State University, Mankato educates and prepares licensed dental hygienists for roles working as mid-level dental practitioners, or dental therapists.
Program Highlights
- The Master of Science in Advanced Dental Therapy Program is approved by the Minnesota Board of Dentistry.
- Minnesota State Mankato is the only institution offering the degree in Greater Minnesota and is one of only three similar programs in the state.
- The program is structured to run Tuesday through Friday, allowing the students to work under their license as a dental hygienist on Mondays/weekends if they so choose to.
- More affordable than similar programs.
- The program will provide licensed dental hygienists with a baccalaureate degree the theoretical and applied skills required to be eligible for licensure as a dental therapist and credentialing as an advanced dental therapist in the state of MN.
Application Requirements
- A baccalaureate degree from an accredited university
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher based on undergraduate coursework
- Unofficial transcripts from all institutions attended
- A current Minnesota dental hygiene license without encumbrance, including nitrous oxide and local anesthesia certifications (new graduates and out-of-state applicants are encouraged to apply but must attain a Minnesota dental hygiene license prior to enrollment)
- Completed or in progress DHYG 460 Restorative Functions or equivalent training/education
- Evidence of current dental hygiene professional liability insurance
- Evidence of required immunizations, current CPR certification (through the American Red Cross or American Heart Association, HIPAA training
- The ideal candidate will have accumulated a minimum of 1,000 hours of clinical dental hygiene experience as a licensed dental hygienist. However, new graduates of dental hygiene programs are encouraged to apply. Please contact the Graduate Coordinator at MSADTinfo@mnsu.edu to discuss your specific circumstance.
- A Personal statement describing your reasons for wanting to pursue the MS in Advanced Dental Therapy degree and why you desire to become an advanced dental therapist. Limit your statement to 500 words.
- A Personal Statement describing your reasons for wanting to pursue the MS in Advanced Dental Therapy degree. Limit your statement to 500 words or less.
- CV/resume
- A signed Technical Standards Form (email Dental Therapy for the form)
Additional Requirements for International Applicants
- A minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80, IELTS score of 6.5, or Duolingo score of 110 with a Duolingo minimum speaking score of 105 and Duolingo minimum writing score of 105.
- Credential Evaluation prepared by a National Association of Credentials Evaluation Service member.
Advanced Dental Therapy MS Application Deadlines
| U.S.-Based Applicants | International Applicants | |
|---|---|---|
| Fall Start | N/A | N/A |
| Spring Start | N/A | N/A |
| Summer Start | March 13 | March 13 |
Interviews
Top applicants will be invited to a virtual interview. Students will be notified of admission status by early to mid-April and will have approximately two weeks to submit acceptance or denial of admission.
Contact Us
Contact Advanced Dental Therapy Graduate Coordinator Learn About the College of Allied Health and Nursing Graduate Studies Contact
What is a Dental Therapist?
Licensure:
The Master of Science in Advanced Dental Therapy program prepares students for professional licensure/certification. Licensure requirements vary by state. Minnesota State University, Mankato complies with U.S. Department of Education licensure disclosure requirements (MSU Policy webpage). Review the Licensure and Certification Disclosure page for state-specific licensure information.