Preparing for a Career in Dentistry
Link to ADA website:
http://ada.org/education.aspx
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 | 2 semesters / 3 quarters |
Inorganic Chemistry (Must include laboratory) | 2 semesters / 3 quarters |
Organic Chemistry (Must include laboratory) | 2 semesters / 3 quarters |
Advanced Biology or Chemistry One course must include one of the following: microbiology, comparative anatomy, or biochemistry (Must be completed at senior college, but no laboratory is required) | 2 semesters / 3 quarters |
| Physics (Must include laboratory) | 2 semesters / 3 quarters |
| Biology (Must include laboratory) | 2 semesters / 3 quarters |
| Mathematics (College algebra and trigonometry or higher level) | 2 semesters / 3 quarters |
| Statistics or Biostatistics (General business or scientific statistics. This is in addition to one year mathematics requirement) | 1 semester / 1 quarter |
While not required, these courses are highly recommended: Foreign language, sociology, psychology, speech, humanities, philosophy, embryology, histology, immunology, cell biology, 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)