Pre-Dentistry

As a regional leader in health care education, USD offers diverse undergraduate programs tailored for students aspiring to enter the field of dentistry, providing an education alongside other future health care professionals. With the state's only comprehensive health sciences school and medical school, USD creates a unique learning environment that mirrors the health care industry, fostering collaboration among students from various disciplines in coordinated teams. This collaborative approach enriches education and cultivates connections among future colleagues.

USD's commitment to supporting undergraduate research ensures pre-dentistry students gain valuable experiences early on, offering opportunities to engage in research teams, earn mini-grants, present at national conferences and conduct research within the health care field.

Emphasizing a comprehensive liberal arts degree, USD places humanity at the center of health care education, focusing on developing communication, emotional intelligence and teamwork skills. This preparation extends beyond expertise in the field to equip students as capable leaders who serve with confidence, empathy, and compassion. The university's dedication to producing practice-ready professionals, ready to navigate the evolving health care landscape, positions graduates to lead and serve their communities effectively in the field of dentistry.

USD's pre-dentistry program is designed to align with the recommended coursework. Recognizing that dentists are independent healthcare providers with a holistic perspective, our program addresses various factors, including teeth, gums, jaw and overall oral health. To accommodate diverse majors, there is no preferred major, but students are encouraged to obtain a Bachelor's degree. Advisors can help their students navigate specific admission requirements for individual dental schools.

Undergraduate Program Finder

Initiate a conversation with your advisor when registering for classes, informing them of your interest in pre-dentistry studies. Your advisor will guide you through course selections aligning with the pre-dentistry track and connect you with a dedicated pre-dentistry advisor for ongoing support. Engage in coursework spanning anatomy, biology, biochemistry, chemistry, mathematics, physics, psychology and statistics to meet dental school prerequisites. Beyond the classroom, explore opportunities such as undergraduate research and involvement in organizations like the Pre-Dentistry Society to enrich your academic experience. Following three years of coursework, allocate time for Dental Admission Test (DAT) preparation and examination before applying to dental school. If accepted, continue on your path; otherwise, your advisor can help explore alternative paths, including graduate programs in areas like physical therapy, chiropractic care, pharmacy or research.

A USD education equips you for diverse career options. As a liberal arts university, we provide a well-rounded education, imparting versatile skills for success in various fields. Whether progressing to dental school, entering the workforce or pursuing graduate programs in fields like physical therapy, chiropractic care, pharmacy or research, your USD education prepares you for a fulfilling and successful future.