Program Phases

Mississippi Rural Dentists Scholarship Program has three distinct phases.

• Undergraduate
  An important component of the MRDSP is the two-year undergraduate or pre-matriculation “nurturing” phase. Rural college pre-dental students apply during the spring of their sophomore year of college. Applicants are interviewed by the MRDSP Board physicians. The final selection is announced in May once spring grades are reviewed.
• Dental school
  During dental school training, MRDSP Scholars are awarded a $35,000-per-year scholarship as well as given support to help them to be successful.
• Initial practice support
  Future plans for the establishment of an initial practice entry support system include mentoring by a seasoned rural dentist and financial and/or emotional support from community institutions, including area hospitals, banking interests, business and educational groups.