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What kind of classes or steps do I need to take in high school and college to become a dentist?
I am currently in highschool and have taken multiple science courses and have taken dual enrollment classes. In college, I am wondering what classes are needed to become a dentist and what major would be the best for me.
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Maura’s Answer
It sounds like you'd need a medical track in college (there are tracks specific to dentistry) to set yourself up for that eventual pathway. In high school, that means focusing on earning strong marks in your STEM classes- but not ignoring the others. Colleges want to see well-rounded transcripts and extracurriculars that show you can balance competing demands on your time- which will undoubtedly be the case in a pre-dental course of studies.
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Michael’s Answer
Good morning Edward,
You are lucky to have two great dental schools close by. Both have had career days for high school students in the past. Usually in the spring. I would suggest that you search out any upcoming career days.
The University of the Pacific and Dugoni School of Dentistry has a program for highly motivated and academically successful high school students. You can apply for a combined program where you spend 2-4 years on the Stockton campus with guaranteed admission to dental school as long as you perform well in the undergraduate portion. (I was on faculty at Dugoni for many years and my youngest partner completed the 2+3 program). Each program has specific eligibility requirements in terms of GPA and SAT/ACT scores. You might consider this program if you are highly motivated. See: https://www.pacific.edu/dental/academic-programs/pre-dentistry
You do not need to load up on the science classes beyond the minimal admission requirements. Dentistry is a combination of science and art. You will learn all the necessary science while in dental school. I would suggest a drawing class and perhaps a sculpture class, Communication with other doctors and your patients is very important, so I suggest classes in public speaking, written and verbal communication. A class in ethics would be helpful, not too many days go by without something in the news about unethical behavior by a dentist or physician leading to legal problems. Leadership classes are also beneficial, whether you are employed or own your own practice, you will be a leader for your staff.
Good luck on your journey!
I recommend finding a mentor that will allow you to observe. Some school have a minimum number of hours to fulfill prior to application. Some have a number of volunteer hours that you need. Log all hours and activities to show the admissions committee.
Ask if your mentor can help you find observation hours in one or more specialty offices.
You are lucky to have two great dental schools close by. Both have had career days for high school students in the past. Usually in the spring. I would suggest that you search out any upcoming career days.
The University of the Pacific and Dugoni School of Dentistry has a program for highly motivated and academically successful high school students. You can apply for a combined program where you spend 2-4 years on the Stockton campus with guaranteed admission to dental school as long as you perform well in the undergraduate portion. (I was on faculty at Dugoni for many years and my youngest partner completed the 2+3 program). Each program has specific eligibility requirements in terms of GPA and SAT/ACT scores. You might consider this program if you are highly motivated. See: https://www.pacific.edu/dental/academic-programs/pre-dentistry
You do not need to load up on the science classes beyond the minimal admission requirements. Dentistry is a combination of science and art. You will learn all the necessary science while in dental school. I would suggest a drawing class and perhaps a sculpture class, Communication with other doctors and your patients is very important, so I suggest classes in public speaking, written and verbal communication. A class in ethics would be helpful, not too many days go by without something in the news about unethical behavior by a dentist or physician leading to legal problems. Leadership classes are also beneficial, whether you are employed or own your own practice, you will be a leader for your staff.
Good luck on your journey!
Michael recommends the following next steps: