Dental hygiene education in Alberta is attained through a three year diploma or four year degree program at the University of Alberta. Course of study includes all areas that will support evidence-based practice such as: 

• general studies (e.g. English, communications, psychology, sociology)
• biomedical sciences (e.g. histology, microbiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, pathology )
• dental sciences (e.g. dental anatomy, embryology, head and neck anatomy, oral pathology, oral physiology, oral therapeutics, dental radiography)
• clinical practice 
• community health
• education foundations  
• ethics 
• advocacy
• research methods
• health promotion

Additionally, dental hygienists can apply to be on specific rosters indicating that they have the education and competencies to:

• prescribe the limited medications used in dental hygiene practice;
• administer local anaesthetic by injection; and
• prescribe and administer nitrous oxide/ oxygen for conscious sedation.

Some dental hygienists in administrative and teaching positions complete graduate education at a Masters or PhD level.