University of Minnesota School of Dentistry: A Comprehensive Overview
The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, situated in the Moos Health Science Tower on the University of Minnesota's East Bank campus, stands as a leading public dental school. As an integral part of the University Academic Health Center, it offers a broad spectrum of professional health education, research, and treatment opportunities. The school holds the distinction of being the only accredited dental school in Minnesota and the sole institution between Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Seattle, Washington, authorized to teach dentistry procedures.
History and Affiliations
The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry has a rich history. By 1938, the dental program, initially a three-year course, was extended to four years. Today, the school is a part of the University Academic Health Center, which also includes the Medical School, College of Pharmacy, School of Nursing, and School of Public Health. Being part of the Center, students and faculty benefit from a wide range of professional health education, research and treatment efforts.
Academic Programs
The School of Dentistry offers a variety of programs catering to different career paths in dentistry.
Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) Program
The traditional predoctoral program leads to a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. In addition, the school offers an Advanced Standing Program for International Dental Graduates (IDGs).
Combined Degrees
The school provides opportunities to pursue combined degrees such as:
Read also: University of Georgia Sorority Guide
- B.A./B.S.
- M.B.A.
- M.P.H.
- M.S.
- Ph.D.
Postgraduate and Residency Programs
For students seeking advanced training, the school offers 13 clinical-specialty or special-focus areas. It is accredited to educate dental hygienists and dental specialists in areas such as endodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, and prosthodontics. Furthermore, the school provides options for general dentists, specialists, and dental hygienists interested in academic, research, and administrative careers, offering master's and Ph.D. degrees. Programs and degrees are available in Endodontics (M.S.).
Admissions
Admissions Statistics
The following data provides insights into the admissions process for the entering class of 2024:
- Mean Age of First-Time, First-Year Enrollees: 23
Acceptance rates and class breakdown by residency are important factors for prospective students.
Academic Averages for Acceptance
- DAT Academic Average
- DAT Natural Science
- DAT Perceptual Ability
- Cumulative GPA
- Science GPA
It's important to note the range of academic averages for acceptance, specifically the 5th and 95th percentile of enrollees.
Prerequisites
The school has specific prerequisites for admission, including required coursework, recommended courses, and policies regarding community college coursework and advanced placement credit.
Read also: History of the Block 'M'
- Required Shadowing Hours: At least 50 hours of in-person dental shadowing is required.
- Letters of Recommendation: Three letters are required, including two from science or math faculty and one from a professional of the applicant’s choosing.
- Dental Admissions Test Requirements: The DAT is mandatory. Canadian DAT scores are accepted. Applicants are evaluated before official DAT submission, and all sets of scores are considered.
- Supplemental Information: Mandatory Casper participation in ADEA AADSAS. A supplemental application and a $95 fee are required for all applicants.
Interview Format
The interview process consists of two rounds. The first round (Kira) interview starts in June. Beginning in July, select applicants who have completed a Kira first round interview will be invited to complete a live interview with two faculty/staff (2:1 format).
Finances and Application Logistics
Prospective students should be aware of the financial implications of attending the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.
Financial Estimations (Starting Fall 2024)
The following table provides estimated costs for each year of the program:
| Year | In-State Tuition | Out-State Tuition | Additional Fees | Estimated Living Expenses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D1 | $48,168 | $89,236 | $10,628 | $25,458 |
| D2 | $60,317 | $111,314 | $13,981 | $33,944 |
| D3 | $58,412 | $107,791 | $13,217 | $33,944 |
| D4 | $55,501 | $102,413 | $13,217 | $33,944 |
University Offerings
The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry provides a range of opportunities for its students.
Academic Offerings
- Pre-Dental Opportunities: Discover Dental School (DDS) Program.
- Research: Minnesota Craniofacial and Oral Health Research Experience. DDS/PhD in Oral Biology is available. Research topics range from microbiology to addressing obstacles in access to care.
The school boasts several research centers, including:
Read also: Legacy of Fordham University
- Oral Health Clinical Research Center
- Minnesota Dental Research Center for Biomaterials and Biomechanics
- Institute for Molecular Virology
Students can also participate in the Summer Research Fellowship Program. The annual Research Day allows students to present their latest dental research.
Clinical Experiences
The clinical curriculum is structured to provide students with comprehensive patient care experience.
- D1: Students learn basic biomedical sciences and take technical dental courses. The basic sciences focus on normal human tissues.
- D2: Students begin treating patients at the end of D2. The basic science courses focus on pathology.
- D3: Students focus on clinical science and providing comprehensive patient care.
- D4: Students complete clinical science training and practice dentistry at outreach sites.
The University of Minnesota Comprehensive Care Dental Clinics provide affordable dental care to the community. Dental students with undergraduate degrees examine patients under the supervision of faculty members. After the exam, patients are assigned to a dental student within a comprehensive care group for further treatment, also under faculty supervision. Fees are generally 30% less than the average fees in the Twin Cities community due to the teaching clinic environment.
Mission
The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry's mission involves education, research, and service to the community.
tags: #university #of #minnesota #dental #school #programs
