8 answers
Tangerine
Student
Sedalia, Missouri
1
Question
Asked
857 views
What bachelors degree should I go for?
I want to become a dental hygienist than get my bachelors and than become a dentist!! I'm not sure what bachelors to major in... help!
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8 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1751
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Tangerine, as an aspiring dental hygienists you'll l need to earn an associate’s degree from an accredited dental hygienist program. These programs take 2 to 3 years to complete and include classroom-based education, laboratories, and hands-on clinical experience. You can find prospective dental hygienist programs at dental schools, technical schools, community colleges, and numerous in-person or online colleges and universities. Make sure the program you have chosen is an accredited dental hygienist program. An accredited program refers to a program that’s been officially recognized or authorized by Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). CODA is the only agency that the U.S. The Department of Education has approved accreditation of dental hygienist programs.
HYGIENIST TO DENTIST
Dental hygienist begin their career by earning an associate degree, dentists typically need a bachelor's degree to fulfill the minimum education requirement. Most dentists major in biology or biochemistry to learn about human anatomy and build skills to help them succeed in the medical field. Also there is an opportunity for you when your a dental hygienists to enroll in programs that will allow you to earn a bachelor's degree while attending dental school, which can streamline your education process and help you begin you start your career as a dentist.
COMPLETE DENTAL SCHOOL
Having to attend dental school is one of the clearest distinctions between working as a dental hygienist and a dentist. To practice in the field, all dentists must have either a Doctor of Medicine in dentistry (D.M.D.) degree or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree, which you can earn by completing dental school. Most dental schools ask candidates to have a bachelor's degree or to have completed at least three years of undergraduate education toward a bachelor's degree. When applying to dental school, candidates usually take the Dental Admission Test (DAT), qualifying them for specific programs.
EARN YOUR LICENSE
One of the final steps you can take to become a dentist after working as a dental hygienist is to earn your dental license. Because all dentists need a license to practice, this can be an especially important part of preparing for your new career. Most licensing programs require candidates to have a D.D.S. or D.M.D. degree and to pass the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) given by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. Dentists must also receive a passing grade on the state or regional clinical exam that applies to where they live and plan to work.
HYGIENIST TO DENTIST
Dental hygienist begin their career by earning an associate degree, dentists typically need a bachelor's degree to fulfill the minimum education requirement. Most dentists major in biology or biochemistry to learn about human anatomy and build skills to help them succeed in the medical field. Also there is an opportunity for you when your a dental hygienists to enroll in programs that will allow you to earn a bachelor's degree while attending dental school, which can streamline your education process and help you begin you start your career as a dentist.
COMPLETE DENTAL SCHOOL
Having to attend dental school is one of the clearest distinctions between working as a dental hygienist and a dentist. To practice in the field, all dentists must have either a Doctor of Medicine in dentistry (D.M.D.) degree or a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree, which you can earn by completing dental school. Most dental schools ask candidates to have a bachelor's degree or to have completed at least three years of undergraduate education toward a bachelor's degree. When applying to dental school, candidates usually take the Dental Admission Test (DAT), qualifying them for specific programs.
EARN YOUR LICENSE
One of the final steps you can take to become a dentist after working as a dental hygienist is to earn your dental license. Because all dentists need a license to practice, this can be an especially important part of preparing for your new career. Most licensing programs require candidates to have a D.D.S. or D.M.D. degree and to pass the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) given by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. Dentists must also receive a passing grade on the state or regional clinical exam that applies to where they live and plan to work.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7220
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Tangerine!
Choosing a Bachelor’s Degree for Dental Hygiene and Dentistry
To pursue a career as a dental hygienist and eventually become a dentist, it is essential to understand the educational pathway and the types of bachelor’s degrees that can facilitate this journey. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of your options:
Step 1: Understanding the Role of a Dental Hygienist
A dental hygienist typically requires an associate degree in dental hygiene, which can be obtained from community colleges or technical schools. This program usually takes about two years to complete and includes both coursework and clinical practice. After becoming a licensed dental hygienist, you will gain valuable experience in patient care, oral health education, and preventive dentistry.
Step 2: Transitioning to Dentistry
Once you have gained experience as a dental hygienist, you may choose to pursue further education to become a dentist. To apply to dental school, most programs require applicants to hold at least a bachelor’s degree. While there is no specific major mandated for dental school admission, certain fields are more advantageous.
Step 3: Recommended Bachelor’s Degrees
Here are some recommended bachelor’s degrees that align well with your goal of becoming a dentist:
Biology: A degree in biology provides foundational knowledge in life sciences, including human anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. These subjects are crucial for understanding the biological aspects of dentistry.
Chemistry: A chemistry degree offers insights into the chemical processes relevant to oral health and materials used in dentistry. Many dental schools require coursework in organic chemistry as part of their prerequisites.
Health Sciences: This interdisciplinary field covers various aspects of health care and public health, providing knowledge that can be beneficial in both dental hygiene and dentistry.
Biomedical Sciences: This major focuses on the application of biological principles to medicine and healthcare, making it highly relevant for future dentists.
Psychology: Understanding patient behavior is crucial in dentistry; thus, a psychology degree can help develop communication skills and empathy towards patients.
Step 4: Additional Considerations
Prerequisites for Dental School: Regardless of your chosen major, ensure that you complete all prerequisite courses required by the dental schools you wish to apply to (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics).
Extracurricular Activities: Engage in activities such as volunteering at dental clinics or participating in pre-dental clubs during your undergraduate studies to strengthen your application for dental school.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the field through internships or job shadowing opportunities while pursuing your bachelor’s degree.
Conclusion
In summary, while there is flexibility regarding which bachelor’s degree you can pursue before entering dental school, degrees in biology or chemistry are often considered the most beneficial due to their relevance to medical sciences. Additionally, gaining experience as a dental hygienist will provide practical insights into patient care that will serve you well as you transition into dentistry.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
American Dental Association (ADA): The ADA provides comprehensive resources about educational pathways for aspiring dentists and hygienists.
American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA): The ADHA offers information on educational requirements for dental hygienists and career advancement opportunities.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): The AAMC outlines general requirements for medical-related professional schools including dentistry, emphasizing necessary undergraduate coursework.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Choosing a Bachelor’s Degree for Dental Hygiene and Dentistry
To pursue a career as a dental hygienist and eventually become a dentist, it is essential to understand the educational pathway and the types of bachelor’s degrees that can facilitate this journey. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of your options:
Step 1: Understanding the Role of a Dental Hygienist
A dental hygienist typically requires an associate degree in dental hygiene, which can be obtained from community colleges or technical schools. This program usually takes about two years to complete and includes both coursework and clinical practice. After becoming a licensed dental hygienist, you will gain valuable experience in patient care, oral health education, and preventive dentistry.
Step 2: Transitioning to Dentistry
Once you have gained experience as a dental hygienist, you may choose to pursue further education to become a dentist. To apply to dental school, most programs require applicants to hold at least a bachelor’s degree. While there is no specific major mandated for dental school admission, certain fields are more advantageous.
Step 3: Recommended Bachelor’s Degrees
Here are some recommended bachelor’s degrees that align well with your goal of becoming a dentist:
Biology: A degree in biology provides foundational knowledge in life sciences, including human anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. These subjects are crucial for understanding the biological aspects of dentistry.
Chemistry: A chemistry degree offers insights into the chemical processes relevant to oral health and materials used in dentistry. Many dental schools require coursework in organic chemistry as part of their prerequisites.
Health Sciences: This interdisciplinary field covers various aspects of health care and public health, providing knowledge that can be beneficial in both dental hygiene and dentistry.
Biomedical Sciences: This major focuses on the application of biological principles to medicine and healthcare, making it highly relevant for future dentists.
Psychology: Understanding patient behavior is crucial in dentistry; thus, a psychology degree can help develop communication skills and empathy towards patients.
Step 4: Additional Considerations
Prerequisites for Dental School: Regardless of your chosen major, ensure that you complete all prerequisite courses required by the dental schools you wish to apply to (e.g., biology, chemistry, physics).
Extracurricular Activities: Engage in activities such as volunteering at dental clinics or participating in pre-dental clubs during your undergraduate studies to strengthen your application for dental school.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the field through internships or job shadowing opportunities while pursuing your bachelor’s degree.
Conclusion
In summary, while there is flexibility regarding which bachelor’s degree you can pursue before entering dental school, degrees in biology or chemistry are often considered the most beneficial due to their relevance to medical sciences. Additionally, gaining experience as a dental hygienist will provide practical insights into patient care that will serve you well as you transition into dentistry.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
American Dental Association (ADA): The ADA provides comprehensive resources about educational pathways for aspiring dentists and hygienists.
American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA): The ADHA offers information on educational requirements for dental hygienists and career advancement opportunities.
Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC): The AAMC outlines general requirements for medical-related professional schools including dentistry, emphasizing necessary undergraduate coursework.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Mbah Wai-Tanyi Aguh
Agronomist
66
Answers
New Rochelle, New York
Updated
Mbah Wai-Tanyi’s Answer
Nice to here from you, Tangerine!
Becoming a dental hygienist and eventually a dentist requires strategic planning. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right bachelor's degree:
Step 1: Dental Hygienist Requirements
1. Earn an Associate's degree in Dental Hygiene: Typically, a 2-year program that includes classroom and clinical instruction.
2. Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE): A written exam that tests your knowledge.
3. Obtain a state license: Requirements vary, but most states require a license to practice.
Step 2: Bachelor's Degree Options
To become a dentist, you'll need to take the Dental Acceptance Test (DAT) and apply to dental school. A bachelor's degree in a science-related field can prepare you for dental school. Consider the following majors:
1. Biology: A popular choice for pre-dentistry students, biology provides a solid foundation in life sciences.
2. Chemistry: Understanding chemical principles is essential for dentistry, making chemistry a great major.
3. Biochemistry: This major combines biology and chemistry, providing a comprehensive understanding of the chemical processes in living organisms.
4. Pre-Dentistry or Pre-Professional: Some colleges offer specific pre-dentistry or pre-professional programs that cater to students pursuing careers in dentistry.
Step 3: Dental School Requirements
1. Take the DAT: A standardized exam that measures your knowledge in areas like natural sciences, reading comprehension, and perception.
2. Apply to dental school: Most dental schools require a bachelor's degree, DAT scores, and a strong application package.
Additional Tips
1. Maintain a strong GPA: A competitive GPA is crucial for dental school admission.
2. Gain dental experience: Volunteer or work in dental settings to gain hands-on experience.
3. Research dental schools: Look into different dental programs to find the best fit for you.
Tangerine, by following these steps and choosing a relevant bachelor's degree, you'll be well-prepared for a successful career as a dental hygienist and, eventually, a dentist!
Becoming a dental hygienist and eventually a dentist requires strategic planning. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you choose the right bachelor's degree:
Step 1: Dental Hygienist Requirements
1. Earn an Associate's degree in Dental Hygiene: Typically, a 2-year program that includes classroom and clinical instruction.
2. Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE): A written exam that tests your knowledge.
3. Obtain a state license: Requirements vary, but most states require a license to practice.
Step 2: Bachelor's Degree Options
To become a dentist, you'll need to take the Dental Acceptance Test (DAT) and apply to dental school. A bachelor's degree in a science-related field can prepare you for dental school. Consider the following majors:
1. Biology: A popular choice for pre-dentistry students, biology provides a solid foundation in life sciences.
2. Chemistry: Understanding chemical principles is essential for dentistry, making chemistry a great major.
3. Biochemistry: This major combines biology and chemistry, providing a comprehensive understanding of the chemical processes in living organisms.
4. Pre-Dentistry or Pre-Professional: Some colleges offer specific pre-dentistry or pre-professional programs that cater to students pursuing careers in dentistry.
Step 3: Dental School Requirements
1. Take the DAT: A standardized exam that measures your knowledge in areas like natural sciences, reading comprehension, and perception.
2. Apply to dental school: Most dental schools require a bachelor's degree, DAT scores, and a strong application package.
Additional Tips
1. Maintain a strong GPA: A competitive GPA is crucial for dental school admission.
2. Gain dental experience: Volunteer or work in dental settings to gain hands-on experience.
3. Research dental schools: Look into different dental programs to find the best fit for you.
Tangerine, by following these steps and choosing a relevant bachelor's degree, you'll be well-prepared for a successful career as a dental hygienist and, eventually, a dentist!
Azin Javadi
dentist, researcher
3
Answers
Beverly Hills, California
Updated
Azin’s Answer
You actually have a lot of great options! The best major depends on what you want to do after dental school. If your goal is to simply become a general dentist, then studying something related to dentistry—like biology, chemistry, or health sciences—might be the most straightforward path. These majors will cover many of the prerequisites for dental school.
However, it’s also worth considering other options. For example, you could explore majors like psychology (useful for patient interaction), business (helpful if you plan to run your own practice), or even something unrelated to dentistry that you’re passionate about, as long as you complete the required dental school prerequisites.
The most important thing is to choose a field you’re genuinely interested in while ensuring you meet dental school admission requirements. Good luck with your journey—you’ve got an exciting path ahead!
However, it’s also worth considering other options. For example, you could explore majors like psychology (useful for patient interaction), business (helpful if you plan to run your own practice), or even something unrelated to dentistry that you’re passionate about, as long as you complete the required dental school prerequisites.
The most important thing is to choose a field you’re genuinely interested in while ensuring you meet dental school admission requirements. Good luck with your journey—you’ve got an exciting path ahead!
Jung Rim Suh
2
Answers
Updated
Jung Rim’s Answer
Hello Tangerine,
Minimum requirement for going to dental hygienist school is Associate degree but certainly you can get bachelor or master’s degree. Look for a dental hygienist school first and then follow their requirement. However have seen many colleagues going for scientific bachelors degree (biology, chemistry, biochemistry) and then choose their medical field of choice after and dental hygienist is one if many.
Minimum requirement for going to dental hygienist school is Associate degree but certainly you can get bachelor or master’s degree. Look for a dental hygienist school first and then follow their requirement. However have seen many colleagues going for scientific bachelors degree (biology, chemistry, biochemistry) and then choose their medical field of choice after and dental hygienist is one if many.
Michelle M.
Actress
2205
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Tangerine !
You have laid out the perfect path for yourself with Dental School as your long term goal ! I commend you for that ! Dental Hygiene will give you an excellent foundation for eventually doing well in Dental School. I have some advice as to how to choose a major for your Bachelors Degree.
You literally can take any major prior to dental school, but I have some advice. You would prepare yourself well by majoring in one of the human sciences such as Biology, Anatomy, Chemistry, or related subjects. You'll learn the bulk of dentistry in dental school, but you'd be well prepared and a good post-grad candidate with a degree in a human science subject. You will learn patient care in Dental School and you can always learn dental specific business through your practicums and by reading about it as well as being advised about it while in dental school.
To choose a future major, when you are finished with the Dental Hygiene Program, review what subject you wished you had more of in the Dental Hygiene Program and major in that subject.
The structure of a Bachelors program is segmented into types of courses you'd have to take: required courses for your Major, elective courses for your major, and required general education courses to obtain a Bachelors Degree and personally chosen electives. You can probably fulfill your electives with courses like psychology, sociology, business management or any class you want to take. Some of the social sciences do apply to your required general ed requirements, so it will be easy to get non-human science courses in. The offerings of undergraduate majors and courses will depend on which college you attend.
So, my advice is to do the dental hygiene program and then decide what to major in for your Bachelors Degree. You don't have to choose or settle on a college major just yet. Let the Dental Hygiene program teach you what's best to major in for your Bachelors Degree.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
You have laid out the perfect path for yourself with Dental School as your long term goal ! I commend you for that ! Dental Hygiene will give you an excellent foundation for eventually doing well in Dental School. I have some advice as to how to choose a major for your Bachelors Degree.
You literally can take any major prior to dental school, but I have some advice. You would prepare yourself well by majoring in one of the human sciences such as Biology, Anatomy, Chemistry, or related subjects. You'll learn the bulk of dentistry in dental school, but you'd be well prepared and a good post-grad candidate with a degree in a human science subject. You will learn patient care in Dental School and you can always learn dental specific business through your practicums and by reading about it as well as being advised about it while in dental school.
To choose a future major, when you are finished with the Dental Hygiene Program, review what subject you wished you had more of in the Dental Hygiene Program and major in that subject.
The structure of a Bachelors program is segmented into types of courses you'd have to take: required courses for your Major, elective courses for your major, and required general education courses to obtain a Bachelors Degree and personally chosen electives. You can probably fulfill your electives with courses like psychology, sociology, business management or any class you want to take. Some of the social sciences do apply to your required general ed requirements, so it will be easy to get non-human science courses in. The offerings of undergraduate majors and courses will depend on which college you attend.
So, my advice is to do the dental hygiene program and then decide what to major in for your Bachelors Degree. You don't have to choose or settle on a college major just yet. Let the Dental Hygiene program teach you what's best to major in for your Bachelors Degree.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Megan Salyer
Dental Student
1
Answer
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Hi Tangerine! Personally I chose to do my undergraduate degree in Biology as many of the prerequisites are covered with this major! However, as long as you have the prereqs covered, you can pick any major you are interested in! Biology and chemistry are usually the more popular choices, but you will be studying this material for the next 3-4 years so it may as well be something you are excited about! I am a second year in dental school currently and have classmates who graduated with degrees in French, Psychology, and Computer Science. So chose a major that you are passionate about and anything not covered can always be taken as well. Just because other students may chose biology and chemistry does not mean you need to as well.
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
383
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Tangerine:
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare to become a Dentist. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, calculus and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a Dentist, communication is essential and critical when dealing with dental staff and patients. A college course in Public Speaking, Communication and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
To become an Dentist, a Bachelor Degree in biology, chemistry or another science related field has to be earned at a college or university. Afterwards, an advanced degree from an accredited dental school has to be obtained - Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). The next phase will be training through an accredited Dental residency as well as dental certification and licensing.
For education and training, it will take up to 11 years to become an Dentist. The Bachelor Degree will be between 4 years. Dental school will be another 4 years. Dental residency, certification and licensing can take up to 1-3 years.
While in college, here are some undergraduate degrees to major in order to become an Dentist:
- Organic Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Chemistry
It will be best to seek advice from your high school guidance counselor as well as teachers to help you focus your interests for a specific major in college.
According to Bold.org, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Dentistry:
- University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry
- Harvard University - Harvard School of Dental Medicine
- University of Michigan - School of Dentistry
- University of California Los Angeles School of Dentistry
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- University of Washington
- University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
- New York University
- University at Buffalo, the State University of New York
- University of Iowa
https://bold.org/blog/top-dental-schools-in-the-us/
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you based on what was just stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Best wishes for your education and career path as a Dentist!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare to become a Dentist. Chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, calculus and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a Dentist, communication is essential and critical when dealing with dental staff and patients. A college course in Public Speaking, Communication and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
To become an Dentist, a Bachelor Degree in biology, chemistry or another science related field has to be earned at a college or university. Afterwards, an advanced degree from an accredited dental school has to be obtained - Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). The next phase will be training through an accredited Dental residency as well as dental certification and licensing.
For education and training, it will take up to 11 years to become an Dentist. The Bachelor Degree will be between 4 years. Dental school will be another 4 years. Dental residency, certification and licensing can take up to 1-3 years.
While in college, here are some undergraduate degrees to major in order to become an Dentist:
- Organic Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Biology
- Chemistry
It will be best to seek advice from your high school guidance counselor as well as teachers to help you focus your interests for a specific major in college.
According to Bold.org, here are the top colleges and universities to consider for Dentistry:
- University of California San Francisco School of Dentistry
- Harvard University - Harvard School of Dental Medicine
- University of Michigan - School of Dentistry
- University of California Los Angeles School of Dentistry
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- University of Washington
- University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
- New York University
- University at Buffalo, the State University of New York
- University of Iowa
https://bold.org/blog/top-dental-schools-in-the-us/
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There are scholarships based on need, academic performance, school activities, sports involvement and community service. So, it will be to your advantage to seek out these types of scholarships. All of the academic staff at your high school that you interact with can write letters of recommendations for you based on what was just stated above. These recommendations can greatly help when filling out college and scholarship applications.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
Best wishes for your education and career path as a Dentist!