• Dentists are trained initially to be generalists. Upon completion, you can apply to specialize on endodontics, pathology, radiology, pediatric dentistry, surgery, and prosthodontics.
• A general dental education typically takes 4 years to complete and spend 2-3 more years in residency after dental school.
• Some dental programs lead to a DDS degree, and others lead to a DMD. Despite their different names, these are equivalent degrees.
• There are 74 dental schools in the United States and Puerto Rico with OHSU School of Dentistry being the only Dental school in Oregon.

• Completing the prerequisite courses is just one aspect of the process. Applicants must also have a well- rounded application consisting of experience (For example: shadowing, volunteer work, undergraduate research, life experience, etc.), letters of recommendation, DAT scores, and a strong admissions essay. Most dental programs require varying shadowing hours. Competitive applicants will have 100-300 shadowing hours. 
• Dental schools look for students who chose meaningful experiences that they are able to reflect upon during the application process.
• The Dental Admission Test (DAT) covers four areas: natural sciences, quantitative reasoning, reading comprehension, and perceptual ability. Visit ADA for more information. 
• Applying to dental school is a year-long process. Students applying in their final year at UO will have a gap year before starting dental school. Students can work, take courses, travel, etc. during the year. Keep in mind, the average age of a First-Year dental student is 24.
• Be sure to research individual programs about any COVID-19 related changes (Pre-recs, DAT exceptions, Pass/Fail Policy, etc).

The chart below illustrates one way dentistry school prerequisites can fit into a 4-year plan. Keep in mind a graduation plan is as unique as the student following it. Math placement, major, transfer credits, application timeline, and other factors will help shape your graduation plan and timeline. Pre-Health Advisors are here to help you create a graduation plan that works best for you!

Click here to watch the Dental School Prerequisite Overview video. 

i Prerequisites vary by school: While some programs require this course, others may not. Research individual programs to determine whether you would like to add this course to your graduation plan.

ii We strongly encourages students take 3-4 of the “highly recommended science course requirements” listed on dental program websites, such as Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Cell Biology, Molecular Genetics, Microbiology, Neurobiology, Biochemistry lab. Connect with an advisor to finalize your pre-dental graduation plan. 

 iii You need a B- or better in CH 360 in order to take this course. Alternatively, you can take Ch 461 plus CH 463. 

Note: This page lists all the common prerequisites for programs. Research individual programs to identify additional courses you may need to take by visiting the ADEA GoDental Academic Preparation Site. Work with your pre-health advisors for any alternate course options.

Questions? Email pre-health advisors at prehealthadvising@uoregon.edu.