Preparing for a Career in Dentistry
Students interested in a career in dentistry should pursue a program of study that is grounded in the sciences and humanities. To that end, the following courses of study are recommended:
High School Academic Preparation
- English Composition
- Mathematics (Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Pre-Calculus)
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
College Academic Preparation
4-Year College Curriculum
- Bachelor of Science Degree
- Bachelor of Arts Degree
College Courses Required For Admission to the School of Dentistry:
English
(1 semester/2 quarters must
include composition)2 semesters/3 Quarters
General Psychology 1 semester/1 Quarter Inorganic Chemistry
(Must include laboratory)2 semesters/3 Quarters
Organic Chemistry
(Must include laboratory)2 semesters/ 3 Quarters Advanced Biology or Chemistry
(Must be completed at senior college,
but no laboratory is required)2 semesters/ 3 Quarters Physics
(Must include laboratory)2 semesters/ 3 Quarters General Biology
(Must include laboratory)2 semesters/ 3 Quarters Mathematics College algebra and
trigonometry or higher level. Students
who qualify by placement tests to
enter Calculus 1 directly can satisfy
their mathematics requirement with
a 3-hr or 4-hr Calculus 1 course, the
other required hours may be met by
an approved elective course.2 semesters/ 3 Quarters
While not required, these courses are highly recommended:
Comparative anatomy, biostatistics, speech, humanities core courses, quantitative analysis, physical chemistry, embryology, histology, immunology, microbiology, biochemistry, bacteriology, cell biology, cell physiology.
Other Suggested Courses
- Speech
- Fine Arts
- Accounting
Extracurricular Activities
- Community Service
- Leadership Positions
- Knowledge of the Dental Profession (by visiting and observing dentists and dental laboratories, etc)