The following courses support the required and suggested coursework for dental school. Please keep in mind that this is a general guideline and requirements differ amongst the different schools.
For a Pre-Dental academic planning guide, click here.
+ Mathematics
Most dental schools require math and/or statistics. We recommend that you take at least one math course and one course in statistics. Note that Math 112 is a pre-requisite for Chem 103.
The statistics course can be taken in your major department.
+ Chemistry
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GENERAL CHEMISTRY: Choose one of these three sequences:
- Chem 103 & 104
- Chem 109
- Chem 115 & 116
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ORGANIC CHEMISTRY: All courses are required
- Chem 343 Introductory Organic Chemistry
- Chem 344 Introductory Organic Chemistry Lab
- Chem 345 Intermediate Organic Chemistry
+ Biological Sciences
Choose one of these two course tracks:
- 1. general Track:
- Biology 151 & 152 Introductory Biology
- Intermediate/Advanced Biology: At least one semester of lecture with one semester of lab is required. Two semesters of biology are recommended for students pursuing a non-science major.
- 2. BioCore Track:
- Biocore 301-302 Evolution, Ecology and Genetics lecture/lab
- Biocore 303-304 Cellular Biology lecture/lab
- Biocore 323-324 Organismal Biology lecture/lab
- Biocore 333 Biological Interactions
Students must apply to enroll in Biocore. For more information, visit their website.
+ Physics
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GENERAl physics: Choose one of these three sequences:
- Physics 103-104 (without calculus)
- Physics 201-202 (calculus-based)
- Physics 207-208 (calculus-based)
+ Biochemistry
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Most dental schools require at least 1 semester of Biochemistry. This requirement can be met by taking one of these four courses:
- Biochemistry 501
- Human Biochemistry 314
- Human Biochemistry 503 & 504
- Biochemistry 507 & 508
+ English / Public Speaking
Most dental schools require 6 credits of English, or literature taught in English, with an emphasis on composition.
Some dental schools also recommend a course in public speaking.
+ Social Science & Art
Most dental schools require at least one semester of Psychology.
To develop hand-eye coordination, consider a drawing or 3-dimensional design course.
Dental programs offer one of two degree options:
D.M.D. ~ Doctor of Medical Dentistry
See Below...
D.D.S. ~ Doctor of Dental Surgery
The DMD and DDS are equivalent four-year degree programs. The requirements for a DMD and a DDS are the same, and licensed professionals must complete the same exam: the NBDE. The difference lies in the school you attend—there are 35 accredited DDS degree schools and 20 accredited DMD degree schools.
Dental schools require the DAT, which is administered through the American Dental Association. The exam tests knowledge of the natural sciences, perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning. A fee assistance program is available. Examinees may request the forms by calling the DTS at 800.232.2162.
Most students take the DAT in the Spring of their Junior year.
