Job Guide

To become a dental hygienist you usually have to study dental hygiene at university. The degree courses are usually combined with dental therapy training. To get into the courses below you usually need to pass your VCE. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, biology, physical education and chemistry are normally required. Entry is highly competitive and there are strict quotas. You will need to pass the Undergraduate Medical and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT) and attend a structured interview. The universities have different prerequisites and may have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Degree Courses:

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus:

• Bachelor of Oral Health Science, 2.5 years full time

University of Melbourne - Parkville Campus:

• Bachelor of Oral Health, 3 years full time

Additional Information:

To practise as a dental hygienist, graduates must be registered with the Dental Board of the state or territory in which they intend to work.

Students who successfully complete a Bachelor of Oral Health in Victoria will also qualify to register as a dental therapist.