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Subject
Dental hygiene
Whether you are an aspiring dental hygienist, or looking to progress to becoming a dental therapist, we have a course for you.
Here at Essex, you'll learn not only the practical skills required for practise, but also the critical skills to take a holistic approach to patient care.
We have two undergraduate courses on offer:
- Our FdSc Dental Hygiene prepares you for a career as a dental hygienist and enables you to register with the General Dental Council.
- Our BSc Dental Hygiene and Therapy prepares you for a career as a dental therapist. This is a 3-year course designed to prepare you for a career as a Dental Care Professional (DCP) within the clinical dental field.
Course
The FdSc Dental Hygiene is a two-year foundation degree that prepares you for a professional career as a dental hygienist.
Course
BSc (Hons) Dental Hygiene and Therapy
The BSc Dental Hygiene and Therapy is a three year, full time professional degree that trains you to become both a Dental Hygienist and a Dental Therapist.
Clearing 2026
Get ahead of results day. Explore your Clearing options now and be ready to secure your place with us when the time comes.
Why study here?
- The University of Essex is ranked top 15 in the Guardian University Guide 2026.
- Learn clinical skills in our dedicated, state-of-the-art dental skills labs.
- You're involved in the treatment of patients – right from the beginning of your course.
Oral health is evolving at an exciting pace. Be at the forefront of the change.
Under the proposed new dental contract, dental practices that can evidence enhanced skills in advanced care are likely to be commissioned to provide specialised services such as periodontology. Whether you’re a Dentist or a Hygienist/Dental Therapist looking to top up your skills set, we have a course to suit you.
When you choose to study with us, you'll gain more than just a qualification. You'll be part of our learning community, and we've got plenty to offer. Check out our facilities, and find out more about the School of Health and Social Care.
For Oral Health Science telephone queries, please contact:
Telephone: 01702 328359
Why study here?
- Gain hands-on experience in our purpose-built dental skills labs and clinical patient care facilities.
- Flexible study options to fit around the busy working lives of clinicians – make study part of your lifestyle.
- Expand your knowledge, and reinforce and enhance the skills required for everyday clinical practice.
Course
Dental practitioners who do are likely to be commissioned to provide specialised services under the proposed new dental contract. Periodontology is just one ...
Course
MSc Advanced Periodontal Practice
Dental practices who do are likely to be commissioned to provide specialised services under the proposed new dental contract. Periodontology is just one of ...
![A head and shoulders shot of Manjit Sandhu, a MSc student in Advanced Periodontal Practice.]()
The MSc course was the best step I could have taken for my career development. Whilst undertaking the course, little eureka moments of applying my new knowledge in the clinical sessions made me realise how far I have come.
We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision for you. We'll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities as described on our website. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to significant disruption, or in response to COVID-19, we'll let our applicants and students know as soon as possible.
