Tag: student experience

How academically rigorous is the Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program?  

Ohio State’s online Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program, like any master of science program, is designed to provide a challenging and rewarding graduate-level academic experience that results in students mastering their discipline. Students should be prepared to use their previous education and experience as a licensed dental hygienist to engage deeply with course material, think critically, communicate effectively and apply evidence to dental hygiene practice, education, research and other professional settings. 

Success in the program requires consistent engagement and time dedicated to coursework. While students come from a variety of professional and educational backgrounds, those who approach their coursework with organization, curiosity and a willingness to learn new skills can be well prepared to succeed. 

Will there be a lot of writing?

Unlike undergraduate studies where you were taking quizzes and tests, writing is an important part of any master of science-level education, and is a significant component of the MSDH curriculum. Students will have opportunities to develop their ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, evaluate and synthesize scholarly literature, support their ideas with evidence, and communicate in an appropriate academic and professional style. 

You do not need to consider yourself an “excellent writer” before beginning the program. However, you should be comfortable developing your writing skills and receiving feedback. Students will learn to build these skills throughout the program through opportunities to strengthen their academic writing, learning how to effectively use scholarly sources, receiving feedback, and having opportunities to revise their work.  

What academic skills should I be prepared to use?

Students should be prepared to: 

  • Work independently and be proactive  
  • Actively seek mentorship and feedback 
  • Read and interpret scholarly and research-based literature 
  • Think critically and evaluate evidence 
  • Write at the graduate level 
  • Locate, evaluate and appropriately cite academic sources 
  • Synthesize information from multiple sources rather than simply summarize it 
  • Participate in discussions and communicate ideas effectively 
  • Manage multiple assignments and deadlines 
  • Apply lived experience and concepts learned in coursework to professional situations 

These are skills that develop over time. You are not expected to arrive with every skill mastered. 

How much time should I expect to spend on coursework?

The time commitment will vary depending on the course, your academic background, and the amount of time you need to complete assignments. Students should plan to dedicate consistent time each week to reading, writing, discussions, projects and other coursework in addition to reviewing course materials. Unlike undergraduate studies where 12 credit hours is considered full time, 8 credit hours is considered full time in graduate studies due to the rigor and robustness of the course and work. Additionally, per the graduate school handbook students must maintain a minimum of 3.0, which is a B grade or higher in all courses.  

Because the program is designed for working professionals, flexibility is an important part of the online learning experience. Students may take up to four years to complete the program, taking courses at a part-time pace to accommodate their work and life needs. At the same time, flexibility does not mean that if you are enrolled in a course, that the work can be completed at your own pace, or without a significant commitment of time and attention.

What can I do before starting the program to prepare?

If it has been several years since you completed your previous degree, you may find it helpful to refresh your academic writing and research skills before beginning the program. Becoming comfortable reading scholarly articles, using academic databases, evaluating evidence, and citing sources can help you start with confidence. 

Most importantly, come prepared to learn and ask questions. Graduate school is an opportunity to strengthen and apply your existing professional knowledge while developing new skills that can support your goals in dental hygiene and beyond.

What does it take to be successful in the program? 

Successful students tend to be proactive, organized, and willing to ask questions. They make time for their coursework, stay engaged with course materials, meet deadlines, and use feedback to improve their work. 

You do not have to know everything before you begin. You do need to be prepared to learn, think critically, communicate effectively, and commit the time necessary to succeed at the graduate level.

Ready to take the next step?

Explore Ohio State’s online  Master of Science in Dental Hygiene program to see how flexible, high-quality education can help you reach your next professional goal. Reach out to one of our expert Enrollment Advisors to learn more today. 

How to become a Dental Hygiene Educator: Jamie Bishop’s journey from clinical practice to the classroom 

Many dental hygienists discover that one of the most rewarding parts of their career is helping others learn. Whether mentoring a new colleague in the office, precepting students during clinical experiences or explaining oral health concepts to patients, teaching often becomes a natural extension of clinical practice. For those who want to make an even greater impact on the profession, becoming a dental hygiene educator can be a fulfilling next step. Jamie Bishop, BSDH, MDH, Assistant Professor in the Division of Dental Hygiene at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, knows that journey firsthand. Her career demonstrates how clinical experience, continued education and a passion for mentoring can lead from the operatory to the classroom.

Why become a Dental Hygiene Educator?

Dental hygiene educators do much more than teach instrumentation or evaluate clinical skills. They prepare future oral health professionals to think critically, communicate effectively and provide evidence-based patient care. As dental hygiene programs continue to educate the next generation of clinicians, experienced professionals are needed to serve as instructors, mentors and leaders in academic settings. For many practicing dental hygienists, teaching offers an opportunity to continue making a difference while helping shape the future of the profession.

Step one: Build a strong clinical foundation

Before becoming an educator, Bishop believes it’s important to become a confident clinician.

“My advice would be to first focus on becoming a strong, confident clinician because your clinical experience is the foundation of your effectiveness as an educator,” she said. “Take every opportunity to build your skills, think critically about patient care and understand the ‘why’ behind your clinical decisions—not just the ‘how.’”

After earning her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from Ohio State, Bishop spent more than a decade in clinical practice before returning to graduate school. Those years treating patients gave her valuable perspective that she now brings into the classroom.

Step two: Continue your education

While clinical experience is essential, advanced education is often the next step toward a career in dental hygiene education. Bishop had always planned to pursue a master’s degree but intentionally waited until she had gained professional experience. “I’ve always had a strong love of learning and a passion for teaching others,” she said. “Looking back, the years of experience I gained made me a better educator because they gave me valuable real-world perspective.”

For registered dental hygienists who currently hold an associate degree, the educational pathway often begins with completing a bachelor’s degree before pursuing graduate education.

Ohio State offers an online RDH-to-Bachelor of Science completion program designed for licensed dental hygienists who want to expand their knowledge while continuing to work. From there, graduates can continue into the online Master of Science in Dental Hygiene (MSDH) program to prepare for careers in education, leadership and advanced professional practice.

Step three: Look for opportunities to teach

Teaching doesn’t have to begin after earning a graduate degree. Bishop encourages dental hygienists to begin developing educational skills throughout their careers. “Start developing your interest in teaching early,” she said. “Mentor classmates, tutor or look for opportunities to explain concepts to others. Teaching isn’t just about knowing the content—it’s about communicating it clearly, adapting to different learners and creating a supportive learning environment.” 

These experiences help build confidence while confirming whether education is the right career path.

Returning to Ohio State

Bishop’s own journey back to Ohio State began with a continuing education course focused on transitioning into education. There, she reconnected with one of her former instructors, who encouraged her to apply for a part-time teaching position. She joined the Division of Dental Hygiene as a clinical instructor in 2020. Although the COVID-19 pandemic shortened that first teaching appointment, the experience reminded her how much she loved working with students.

“It reignited a passion for education that I hadn’t realized I was missing,” she said. She later completed her master’s in dental hygiene and returned to Ohio State as a full-time faculty member.

Helping students become exceptional clinicians

Today, Bishop’s teaching philosophy extends beyond technical skills.

“My goal is for students to develop strong critical thinking, clinical reasoning and patient-centered decision-making skills,” she said. “These skills allow them to move beyond performing procedures and deliver individualized, compassionate care.” 

Her greatest reward comes from watching students grow into confident professionals. 

“What makes me most proud is the meaningful connections I’ve built with students,” Bishop said. “When graduating seniors thank me for my support and guidance, it reminds me that I’m helping shape not only their clinical skills, but also their confidence and professionalism.”

Is Dental Hygiene Education right for you?

If you enjoy mentoring others, sharing knowledge and making a lasting impact on the profession, a career in dental hygiene education may be the next step in your professional journey.

For licensed dental hygienists, earning a bachelor’s degree and continuing into a master’s program can provide the knowledge, leadership skills and academic preparation needed to transition from clinical practice into higher education. Whether your goal is to teach future dental hygienists, contribute to research or lead within the profession, your journey can begin by continuing your education—and, like Jamie Bishop, discovering that the classroom is where your passion truly comes to life.

Interested in advancing your career in dental hygiene?

Explore Ohio State’s online RDH to Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and Master of Science in Dental Hygiene programs to see how flexible, high-quality education can help you reach your next professional goal. Reach out to one of our expert Enrollment Advisors to learn more today. 

Student to faculty: Jamie Bishop’s journey in dental hygiene education 

For Jamie Bishop, BSDH, MDH, a career in dental hygiene wasn’t part of the original plan. She envisioned a future in journalism and communications, fueled by a love of creative writing. But a lifelong interest in dentistry, and an unexpected conversation during a summer babysitting job, changed everything. 

Today, Bishop serves as an Assistant Professor-Clinical in the Division of Dental Hygiene at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, where she teaches and mentors the same type of students she once stood beside. Her journey from undergraduate student to faculty member demonstrates how a dental hygiene education can open doors far beyond clinical practice. 

Discovering a passion for dentistry 

Growing up, Bishop always enjoyed visiting the dentist. Her childhood dentist happened to be her neighbor, making each appointment feel personal and memorable. Later, after orthodontic treatment transformed her own smile, she became fascinated with dentistry and found herself noticing smiles everywhere. Still, she never imagined dentistry would become her profession. 

“I planned to pursue journalism,” Bishop said. “It wasn’t until a young girl I was babysitting suggested I should become a dentist that I began seriously thinking about a career in oral healthcare.” 

Sometimes, the best career advice comes from the most unexpected places.   

Choosing Ohio State

After being accepted to both Miami University and Ohio State, Bishop initially enrolled at Ohio State as a pre-dentistry student. It didn’t take long for her goals to evolve. 

“As I learned more about dentistry, I realized dental hygiene offered everything I was looking for,” she said. “It combined my interest in healthcare with a career that would provide flexibility, stability and the opportunity to one day balance my professional and family life.” 

She chose to remain at Ohio State to earn her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, recognizing that a bachelor’s degree would create opportunities for future graduate education, leadership roles and career advancement.  

More than ‘cleaning teeth’  

When prospective students ask Bishop about dental hygiene, she encourages them to look beyond common misconceptions. 

“Dental hygienists are much more than people who clean teeth,” she explained. “We are healthcare professionals who focus on disease prevention, patient education, comprehensive assessments, radiography and individualized patient care.” 

She also reminds students that earning a dental hygiene degree requires commitment. 

“The program is rigorous,” Bishop said. “There will be long days and challenging weeks, but those experiences prepare you to become a confident clinician. By the time you graduate, you’ll realize just how much you’ve grown.” 

Continuing the journey  

Although Bishop always intended to pursue graduate education, she wanted to gain clinical experience first. 

What she expected would be a short break became more than a decade in private practice. 

“I’ve always loved learning and teaching,” she said. “Looking back, the years I spent practicing made me a better educator because they gave me valuable real-world experience.” 

When the timing aligned during the COVID-19 pandemic, she enrolled in Ohio State’s Master’s in Dental Hygiene program, fulfilling a goal she had held since her undergraduate years. 

A full-circle moment    

Today, Bishop enjoys helping students navigate the same journey she once experienced. 

“What makes me most proud is the meaningful relationships I’ve built with students,” she said. “When graduates tell me I helped shape their confidence and growth as clinicians, that’s incredibly rewarding.” 

Her story demonstrates that a dental hygiene education doesn’t have to end after graduation. For many professionals, it’s just the beginning of a career filled with opportunities to lead, teach and inspire the next generation. 

 Ready to take the next step?

Explore Ohio State’s online RDH to Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and Master of Science in Dental Hygiene programs to see how flexible, high-quality education can help you reach your next professional goal. Reach out to one of our expert Enrollment Advisors to learn more today. 

Becoming a Dental Hygiene Educator: Your guide from RDH to the classroom 

Dental hygienists play an essential role in improving oral health and educating patients every day. For some professionals, that passion for education extends beyond the dental chair and into the classroom. If you’ve ever considered helping train the next generation of dental hygienists, pursuing a career in dental hygiene education could be a rewarding next step. 

For registered dental hygienists (RDHs), the path to becoming an educator often begins with advancing your education. The online RDH to BS completion program along with the online MS in Dental Hygiene at The Ohio State University provide clear pathways to help practicing hygienists gain the academic preparation and leadership skills needed to take the next steps towards teaching and academic roles. 

Why dental hygiene education matters 

Across the country, dental hygiene programs are working to prepare future clinicians to meet the growing oral health needs of their communities. At the same time, many programs are seeking qualified faculty members with advanced education and clinical experience. 

Dental hygienists who pursue careers in education often help shape the future of the profession by: 

  • Teaching clinical and didactic dental hygiene courses 
  • Mentoring and advising students 
  • Supporting research and evidence-based practice 
  • Contributing to community oral health initiatives 

If you enjoy mentoring others, sharing your knowledge and helping students succeed, a career in dental hygiene education may be a natural fit.  

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree or complete your degree, through a completion program

For many practicing hygienists, the first step toward a career in education is completing a bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene. Many dental hygiene faculty positions require at least a bachelor’s degree, and graduate programs also require a bachelor’s degree as a part of their admission criteria. 

The online RDH to Bachelor of Science (BS) dental hygiene completion program within the College of Dentistry is designed specifically for licensed dental hygienists who already hold an associate degree or dental hygiene diploma/licensure. 

This flexible RDH to BS online program allows working professionals to continue practicing dental hygiene while expanding their knowledge in areas such as:

  • Research and evidence-based practice 
  • Public health and community oral health 
  • Leadership and professional development 
  • Healthcare policy and population health 

Completing a bachelor’s degree prepares you for graduate study and leadership opportunities within the profession as well as strengthens foundational knowledge of dental hygiene for a future as an educator. 

Step 2: Continue your education with a master’s in dental hygiene   

Dental hygienists interested in teaching in dental hygiene programs typically pursue a master’s degree. Graduate education provides deeper training in curriculum design, research methods, and leadership skills needed for academic and educational roles. 

The online Master of Science in Dental Hygiene (MSDH) program at Ohio State helps prepare dental hygienists for careers in: 

  • Dental hygiene education 
  • Academic leadership 
  • Research and evidence-based practice 
  • Community and public health programs 

Through advanced coursework and applied learning experiences, students gain the skills needed to teach, mentor, and support oral health professionals.

A flexible online pathway for working dental hygienists   

Many dental hygienists interested in teaching are balancing full-time careers, family responsibilities, and professional commitments. Online programs make it possible to continue advancing your education while maintaining your current career. 

Both the RDH-to-BS dental hygiene completion program and the MS in Dental Hygiene program at Ohio State are designed with working professionals in mind, offering flexible online learning that allows students to pursue their educational goals without putting their careers on hold. 

This pathway allows hygienists to progress from: 

RDH → Bachelor’s Degree → Master’s Degree → Dental Hygiene Educator 

all while building the leadership and academic skills needed to succeed in education. 

Make an impact on the future of dental hygiene   

As dental hygiene continues to evolve, educators play a vitDental hygiene educators play a critical role in shaping future oral health professionals. By sharing your clinical experience and passion for patient care, you can help prepare future hygienists to make a difference in their communities. 

For RDHs interested in teaching, advancing your education is an important first step. Starting with a bachelor’s degree and continuing to a master’s program can open doors to new opportunities in education, leadership and professional development. 

Explore how Ohio State’s online dental hygiene programs can help you take the next step in your career and move toward a future in dental hygiene education. Reach out to one of our Enrollment Advisors and learn more today. 

Which online business degree is right for me?

If you’re thinking about advancing your business career, you may be asking, “what is the best business degree to study?” If you want to gain business administration skills and leadership training, an MBA may seem like the obvious choice. But you have other options: The Ohio State University offers many online business degrees and certificates, beyond the MBA. When it comes to the next step in your journey, specialized expertise might make more sense than an MBA. 

Keep reading to learn about three advanced online business degrees and certificates tailored for healthcare careers, as well as specialized analytics and supply chain pathways. 

First, let’s talk about why the MBA is the “default” for many people. The online MBA from the Max M. Fisher College of Business offers an expansive business education for students interested in ascending to leadership roles in their organization. It’s an AACSB-accredited business program, with a curriculum crafted by faculty who are entrepreneurs and executives themselves. Students in this program can personalize their education through relevant electives and earn a degree without quitting their day jobs. 

The online MBA for Working Professionals can be a great option for students who want a broadly applicable online business degree with a recognized acronym. But if you want to drill down into specific skill sets or industries, explore a few other options offered online from Fisher College of Business. With these “MBA alternatives,” you can master a specific domain while still gaining the rigorous training and global alumni network Fisher is known for. 

Online business masters degrees

Just like the MBA for Working Professionals, Ohio State’s other online business degrees are offered 100% online, with flexible class scheduling and requirements that can be completed on your own schedule. 

Let’s dive into two online master’s degrees in business that are strong MBA alternatives: the Specialized Master in Business Analytics and the Master in Supply Chain Management. 

Specialized Master in Business Analytics 

If you’re ready to shape the data landscape at your org, our Specialized Master in Business Analytics could be the right fit. This online business master’s degree is designed for students who want to understand and apply the science of data analytics to improve their organization’s productivity and growth. With a strong focus on acquiring and managing data, this pathway is ideal for those who want to transition into the world of management analytics. 

Master of Supply Chain Management

Interested in capitalizing on the growing demand for supply chain experts? Students in the Master of Supply Chain Management benefit from a curriculum tailored specifically to their field. This online business master’s degree is designed to address a critical workforce need and offers immediate upskilling, thanks to courses like operations management and supply chain sustainability. 

Online business graduate certificates

Want the expertise, but not ready for an online business master’s degree? With an online business graduate certificate, you can test drive the curriculum, while gaining relevant skills – as well as credits that can apply to a future MBA. 

Mini-MBA Graduate Healthcare Certificate

The “mini-MBA” graduate certificate is designed for physicians or clinicians who want to learn more about the business of healthcare and how to improve efficiency at their organization. Students will obtain business knowledge through a healthcare lens and gain the skills to lead as healthcare administrators. Plus, 100% of the credits earned in this program can count toward a future MBA. 

If you’re ready to upskill and advance your career, but not sure about an MBA, you’ve got options. At Ohio State, choosing between specialized depth and MBA breadth doesn’t mean sacrificing a quality business administration foundation. Whether you’re a supply chain specialist or aspiring healthcare admin, there’s an online business degree or certificate for you. 

Ready for your next step? Contact our enrollment team today. 

Teaching the next generation: Jamie Bishop’s passion for Dental Hygiene Education 

For Jamie Bishop, BSDH, MDH, teaching wasn’t simply a career change, it was the realization of a goal she had carried for years. 

After more than a decade practicing clinical dental hygiene, Bishop returned to The Ohio State University to earn her Master’s in Dental Hygiene. Today, she serves as an Assistant Professor-Clinical in the Division of Dental Hygiene, helping prepare future dental hygienists for successful careers in patient care. 

Building a foundation through clinical practice

Bishop believes effective educators begin by becoming excellent clinicians. 

“My advice is to first focus on becoming a strong, confident clinician,” she said. “Your clinical experience becomes the foundation of your effectiveness as an educator.” 

That philosophy continues to guide her teaching today. Rather than simply demonstrating procedures, she encourages students to think critically, solve problems and understand the reasoning behind every clinical decision.   

Preparing students for real-world practices

In Bishop’s classroom and clinic, technical skills are only part of the learning experience. 

“My goal is for students to develop strong critical thinking, clinical reasoning and patient-centered decision-making skills,” she said. “Those abilities allow students to move beyond performing procedures and provide individualized, compassionate care.” 

She emphasizes that successful dental hygienists combine scientific knowledge with communication, professionalism and empathy. 

From mentor to faculty member   

Bishop’s return to Ohio State began with a continuing education course about transitioning into education. There, she reconnected with one of her former instructors, who encouraged her to pursue a part-time teaching opportunity. 

In 2020, she joined the Division of Dental Hygiene as a clinical instructor. Although the COVID-19 pandemic shortened that first appointment, the experience reaffirmed something she had always known. 

“It reignited a passion for education that I hadn’t realized I was missing,” she said. 

That experience inspired her to complete her master’s degree before ultimately joining the faculty full time.

The most rewarding part of teaching   

For Bishop, the greatest reward isn’t found in lectures or clinical evaluations. 

It’s watching students discover their confidence. 

“What makes me most proud is the meaningful connections I’ve built with students,” she said. “When graduating seniors leave notes thanking me for their support and guidance, it reminds me that I’m helping shape not only their clinical skills, but also their confidence and professionalism.”

Creating future leaders in Dental Hygiene   

As dental hygiene continues to evolve, educators play a vital role in preparing graduates to meet the changing needs of patients and communities. 

For those considering a career in education, Bishop encourages them to begin developing their teaching skills early. 

“Look for opportunities to mentor classmates, tutor or explain concepts to others,” she said. “Teaching isn’t just about knowing the material—it’s about communicating it effectively and creating an environment where others can learn and grow.” 

By combining years of clinical experience with a passion for mentorship, Bishop is helping prepare the next generation of dental hygienists to make a lasting impact on oral health.

 Ready to take the next step? Interested in advancing your career in dental hygiene? 

Explore Ohio State’s online RDH to Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and Master of Science in Dental Hygiene programs to see how flexible, high-quality education can help you reach your next professional goal. Reach out to one of our expert Enrollment Advisors to learn more today.

How to become a healthcare compliance professional: Matt’s MSL journey

Matt Brennan had a job he loved: Working alongside dedicated attorneys and hospital staff as a paralegal for Akron Children’s Hospital. But he soon realized his career growth had hit a ceiling. To break through, Matt turned to Ohio State’s online Master in the Study of Law (MSL).

The ROI came even sooner than he expected: Matt found his studies directly applicable to his day job — and he saw career movement well before graduation. Keep reading to learn how Matt transformed his career with Ohio State Online. 

A law degree for working professionals

After considering a Master of Public Health, an MBA and even a J.D. to advance his career, Matt found Ohio State’s Master in the Study of Law to have the best mix of affordability and quality — plus direct relevance to his role and goals. And with two kids at home and a full-time job, the flexibility of the online program was crucial for Matt. 

“As much as I would love to go to campus every day, it doesn’t align with my schedule,” he said. “I needed the flexibility to live life while enhancing my education.” 

As a lifelong Buckeye with knowledge of Moritz College of Law’s stellar reputation, Ohio State felt like a natural choice: “I view Ohio State as a top-tier institution,” he said. 

Expert faculty in action

Matt soon saw this excellence in action through licensed attorney and adjunct professor Trent Stechschulte, who taught his healthcare compliance course.  

“It’s such a skill to be able to present information to a varied audience of different professionals and still make it relevant,” Matt shared, reflecting on the course and the diverse professional backgrounds of his classmates. 

As part of the course curriculum, Trent invited healthcare compliance professionals to speak to his students, including experts from Nationwide Children’s Hospital and ProMedica. Their first-hand perspectives were critical for Matt as he helped build his hospital’s compliance program. 

Contributing to compliance

While earning his degree, Matt applied concepts and ideas he learned from class to his work at the hospital. His supervisors were thrilled: “They were impressed with the fact that I was learning similar concepts that they did in law school,” Matt said. 

By sharing the knowledge he gained in his healthcare compliance class with his supervisors, Matt helped to enhance the hospital’s compliance department. Eventually, this contribution turned into a promotion — and a significant raise. 

“Due to my direct experience in the program and the unique education I received at Ohio State related to health law and compliance, they created a new role for me in the compliance department,” Matt explained. His supervisor emphasized his continued professional development and evolving skill set, highlighting the growing value he brought to the organization. 

As a Healthcare Compliance Auditor, Matt’s responsibilities included policy alignment, process and procedure reviews, and serving as a resource for compliance guidance across the organization. 

Looking ahead

For Matt, the knowledge he gained through the online MSL will have lasting relevance — and impact. 

“I will continue to use my education to enhance what I do at the hospital,” Matt explained. “The knowledge I’m gaining is invaluable in helping me excel.” 

Ready to level up your law career? Contact an Enrollment Advisor to become a healthcare compliance auditor like Matt. 

Frequently asked questions

Shaping the future of health care education: Meet Dr. Monica L. Robinson

At The Ohio State University, students in the online Master of Science in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (MSHRS) program learn from faculty who don’t just teach—they lead, innovate, and actively shape the future of health care. Among them is Dr. Monica L. Robinson, a Professor – Clinical in the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences whose career spans more than three decades of clinical practice, leadership, and transformative education.

A career built across the health care continuum

Dr. Robinson is a nationally recognized educator and occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience across diverse care settings. Her work has spanned acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient services, psychiatric and residential mental health, skilled nursing facilities, and community-based primary care.

This breadth of experience gives her a uniquely comprehensive perspective. A perspective that informs her teaching and allows students to understand how health systems function at every level. Her expertise is not only clinical but deeply rooted in systems thinking, helping future professionals see the bigger picture of patient care, policy, and organizational leadership.

A leader in Occupational Therapy and beyond

Dr. Robinson’s credentials reflect both her depth of knowledge and her national impact. She holds a Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy and an MS in Advanced Practice Occupational Therapy, and she is board certified in Mental Health by the American Occupational Therapy Association, a distinction earned by fewer than one percent of occupational therapists.

She is also a Fellow of both the American Occupational Therapy Association (FAOTA) and the National Academies of Practice (FNAP), honors that recognize her sustained contributions to clinical practice, education, and leadership.

Transforming how health professionals learn

At the core of Dr. Robinson’s work is a passion for improving how students learn. Her teaching and scholarship focus on the scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL), metacognition, interprofessional education, and creating a sense of belonging in the classroom.

She has taught more than 100 courses across occupational therapy, health sciences, and graduate education. Bringing innovative, evidence-based teaching strategies into every learning experience. Her approach emphasizes active learning, real-world application, and critical thinking, ensuring students are prepared not just to succeed academically, but to lead in complex health care environments.

Her impact as a mentor is equally significant. Dr. Robinson has advised or served on more than 100 master’s and doctoral capstone committees and is frequently invited to mentor students and collaborate with faculty at institutions across the country.

Driving change through leadership and policy

Before transitioning fully into academia, Dr. Robinsonheld a major national leadership role as a corporate clinical consultant for the largest skilled nursing facility organization in the United States. In this role, she led clinical practice initiatives, regulatory compliance, and reimbursement strategies across more than 500 locations in 32 states, supporting thousands of therapy practitioners.

Her expertise in health policy and regulation has also made her a trusted advisor at the national level. She has served as a consultant on Medicare policy, ethics, and compliance, and even contributed as a Medicare fraud expert consultant for the U.S. Department of Justice.

Dr. Robinson has worked closely with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), representing the American Occupational Therapy Association on key committees and helping shape Medicare policy. Her leadership extends to professional service as well, including roles on national boards and as a two-term president of the Ohio Occupational Therapy Association.

Through this work, she has played a meaningful role in advancing occupational therapy practice, strengthening health systems, and influencing policy at both the state and national levels.

Learning from leaders in the field

Students in Ohio State’s online MSHRS program benefit directly from Dr. Robinson’s experience, insight, and dedication to teaching. Her ability to connect clinical practice, education, and policy gives students a well-rounded perspective that prepares them to lead in a rapidly evolving health care landscape.

For those looking to advance their careers in health and rehabilitation sciences, learning from faculty like Dr. Robinson means gaining more than knowledge. It means gaining mentorship from professionals who are actively shaping the future of the field.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re exploring what you can do with a master’s in health science or searching for a flexible online rehabilitation science master’s degree, Ohio State’s MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program offers a nationally respected, affordable path to advance your career.

Learn more about how this degree can prepare you for leadership, research, and innovation in the health and rehabilitation professions. Connect with one of our expert Enrollment Advisors who can help you navigate your next steps or apply to start your next chapter today.

Why is systems engineering “people engineering”?

Why is systems engineering “people engineering”?

Systems Engineering is often misunderstood as purely mechanical, but program director Sandy Furterer describes it as “people engineering”. Ohio State’s new online Master of Systems Engineering program connects people, processes, and technology, using advanced tools like cognitive human factors and model-based systems engineering. We had the chance to ask Sandy a few questions about what systems engineering is, Ohio State’s online systems engineering degree, and how this degree can have a positive impact on the careers of students.  

Tell us a bit about yourself, Sandy. 

I am a Professor of Practice in the department of Integrated Systems Engineering (ISE), Curriculum Director for our Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology program, and the Faculty Director for the online Master of Systems Engineering program at The Ohio State University.  I have a bachelor’s and master of Industrial and Systems Engineering from Ohio State, an MBA from Xavier University in Cincinnati, and a PhD in Industrial Engineering from the University of Central Florida. I’ve been at Ohio State since 2022. As a Professor of Practice, I focus on teaching and bringing my extensive industry knowledge and experience into the online classroom. 

What is systems engineering?

Systems Engineering is connecting the entire picture and factors that impact people, processes, and systems.  Systems Engineering leverages statistics, math, data, cognitive and human factors engineering disciplines to design and develop systems. 

Why does systems engineering interest you?

Systems engineering is a fantastic discipline and area of study. It connects people, processes, and technology with tools and problem-solving methodologies that optimize and improve processes and systems. There is always a problem to solve, a process to improve, or new technology to apply to improve workplaces across all industries, some of which are healthcare, financial services, retail, manufacturing, defense industries, etc. We call it the people engineering, where we design the workplace with the people as the central focus of the system. We collaborate with people and build our systems for people and the value that they can derive from it. 

Why are you excited for Ohio State to launch a systems engineering program?

Systems engineering is a growing discipline, based on the recent market analysis conducted by The Ohio State University, Columbus has seen the highest number of unique job postings in the systems engineering occupations compared to Cincinnati, which has seen the second highest number. Columbus is a hotspot for jobs within the profiled occupations. The national average for an area the size of Columbus is 16,849 jobs, while there were 20,057 in Columbus in 2022.  Dayton is also a hot spot for systems engineers with the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and demand for skilled systems engineers in defense-related fields.  

Who is this online Master of Systems Engineering degree for?

This program is the perfect fit for engineers working in business, industry, healthcare, government, for-profit, and non-profit organizations who already have several years of experience in the field and are ready to take their career to the next level. If you have already earned your bachelor’s degree in engineering, engineering technology, mathematics, statistics, computer science, natural sciences, and are responsible for modeling, designing, and deploying complex systems, products, services, and system-of-systems, then this is the program for you. This systems engineering program can be completed in as little as 18 months with a full-time course load, but most students complete their degree in under 2 years while taking classes part-time. 

What will I learn in this online systems engineering program? 

The curriculum focuses on the foundations of systems engineering, including the system design lifecycle, model-based systems engineering, systems requirements engineering, simulation and modeling, project management, and program management. The broad number of electives includes analytical tools and methods that optimize systems, such as design of engineering experiments, cognitive systems engineering, human-centered machine learning, visual analytics and sensemaking, and lean six sigma foundations. 

We have faculty who are experts in their disciplines and have extensive teaching and research experience.  Our program will allow you to get to know, work, and network with colleagues across a wide variety of disciplines and industries. We also have courses from Ohio State’s John Glenn College of Public Affairs focused on aspects of the public sector and federal government agencies, including risk and decision analysis in public affairs, managing public sector organizations, contract management, and federal policy and administration.   

How could a Master of Systems Engineering degree impact my career?

The Master of Systems Engineering program will take you to the next level of knowledge and application with tools and methodologies that will differentiate you from your peers when designing and developing systems.  From understanding how to better engage stakeholders to elicit and define systems requirements to managing programs and projects, these skills will help you to better collaborate with stakeholders and team members, as well as understand critical factors that are part of complex systems. 

What kind of systems engineering jobs does a Master of Systems Engineering degree open up for me?

This degree will help you to advance into or within the systems engineering jobs across a wide variety of industries that are embracing systems thinking and designing and deploying complex systems, such as defense, healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, retail, and others.  Understanding how best to design and manage systems will open up opportunities to move into technical managerial positions.   

Elevate your career with an online systems engineering degree.

Ohio State’s Master of Systems Engineering program is specifically designed to provide you with the advanced tools and methodologies needed to differentiate yourself from your peers and transition into high-level technical roles. You will learn to connect the entire picture of people, processes, and systems to solve the most pressing challenges across industries like healthcare, defense, and manufacturing. Whether you are looking to master model-based systems engineering or dive into risk and decision analysis, this program offers the specialized knowledge to lead in today’s complex industrial landscape. Request more information today and find out how you could earn your degree fully online in as little as 18 months.

 

Engineering excellence starts at Ohio State.

Request more information to connect with your Enrollment Advisor and see how Ohio State’s online Master of Systems Engineering can easily fit your schedule and help you reach the next level of your career.

REQUEST INFO TODAY

Exploring research and applied learning in Ohio State’s MS in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program

At The Ohio State University, the Master of Science in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences (MSHRS) program, available in both in-person and fully online formats, offers students the flexibility to tailor their graduate experience to their professional goals. A defining feature of the program is the ability to choose between two distinct culminating pathways: the Research Track (thesis) option or the Advanced Practice (non-thesis)option.

Students who pursue the Research Track (thesis) option engage in rigorous, faculty-guided research, ultimately producing a scholarly thesis that contributes to the broader field of health and rehabilitation sciences. In contrast, students in the Advanced Practice (non-thesis) option complete an applied project designed to translate evidence into practice, often addressing real-world challenges within clinical, community, or organizational settings.  

Below is a curated list of OhioLINK-published theses from graduates of the Master of Science in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at The Ohio State University. These examples can help prospective students see the types of research topics students pursue in the Research Track (thesis) option of the program as well as the Advanced Practice (non-thesis) option, respectively.  

Examples of Thesis projects from Ohio State MSHRS Students

The Research Track (thesis) option emphasizes research design, data analysis, and scholarly dissemination. Students work closely with faculty mentors to investigate meaningful questions, often contributing new insights to clinical practice, public health, or human performance.  

1. Determining Repetitive Head Impact Exposure in Youth Tackle Football Based on Five Data Cleaning Methods

By: Samantha DeAngelo (2025)

2. Healthcare Service Use Patterns Among Autistic Adults: A Systematic Review with Narrative Synthesis

By: Daniel Gilmore (2021)

3. Building Cadet Power: Upper and Lower Body Development in Corrections Academy Training

By: Adrian Jourdan (2025) 

4. Real-Time Examination of Factors that Influence Obstetric Sonographer Workload

By: Katherine Ann Smith (2024)

5. BMI and Body Composition in Division I Athletes

By: Isabella Simpson (2021)

6. Exploration of Diabetes Knowledge, Risk, and Perception of Type 2 Diabetes Among Young Adults in the United States

By: Emily Crouch (2021)

7. Examination of the Knowledge and Perceptions of Millennials Regarding the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and MyPlate

By: Marguerite Catanzaro (2021)

8. The Effects of Delivering Inhaled Epoprostenol on Prolonging Mechanical Ventilation in Post-Operative Cardiac Surgery Patients

By: Melissa Klug (2022)

9. Potential Screening Tool and Dietary Factors Contributing to Low Testosterone and Low Energy Availability in Male Runners

By: Bryce Jordan (2022)

How these examples help prospective students

Reviewing past theses provides valuable insight into what students in the Research Track (thesis) option accomplish throughout the program. These projects demonstrate how students:  

  • Develop focused research questions and hypotheses   
  • Conduct systematic reviews, clinical studies, or experimental research   
  • Collect, analyze, and interpret data   
  • Produce a scholarly thesis comparable to a peer-reviewed journal article   
  • Contribute meaningful knowledge to the field of health and rehabilitation sciences   

For students interested in research, academia, or evidence-based clinical advancement, the Research Track (thesis) option offers a strong foundation in scientific inquiry and dissemination.  

Examples of Non-Thesis projects from Ohio State MSHRS students  

While thesis projects focus on generating new knowledge, the Advanced Practice (non-thesis) option emphasizes applying existing evidence to real-world challenges. These projects often take the form of program development, clinical guidelines, quality improvement initiatives, or educational interventions.  

Because Advanced Practice (non-thesis) projects are typically implemented within organizations or clinical settings, they are not commonly archived in OhioLINK. However, they play an equally important role in preparing graduates to lead change, improve outcomes, and translate research into practice.  

(Note: Since Advanced Practice (non-thesis) projects are not archived in OhioLINK, if you are interested in reading a complete non-thesis project please fill out an inquiry form and you will be connected with an Enrollment Advisor who can help you.)  

1. Complexities of Nutrition Support in the Early Days of a Pandemic: A Case Series

By: Angela Parillo, RD, LD, CNSC (2021)

2. Stigma-Reducing Training Program for Respiratory Therapy Students

By: Breanna Pope, B.S., RRT (2019)

3. The Effects and Application of Electrical Stimulation and Robotic Assisted Interventions on the Hemiplegic Shoulder Following Neurological Injury

By: Chandler Lowe, BS (2020)

4. Retrospective Analysis of a Women’s Imaging Department Volume and Referral Sources

By: Hilary Erin Grigsby (2020)

Choosing the right path

Whether students choose the Research Track (thesis) or the Advanced Practice (non-thesis) option, both pathways are designed to build advanced skills that translate directly into career growth. The thesis track is ideal for those interested in research, doctoral study, or publishing, while the non-thesis track supports professionals looking to implement change, lead initiatives, and apply evidence in real-world settings.  To learn more about which path is right for you, check out this article.

Together, these options reflect the flexibility and depth of the Master of Science in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences program—empowering students to align their academic experience with their long-term career goals.  

If you’re unsure which path fits you best, our Enrollment Advisors can help you align your choice with your long-term goals. Reach out to us to learn more or, if you’re ready, start your application today.