Doctor of Dental Surgery Program (DDS)

The Doctor of Dental Surgery program combines a strong base of biomedical sciences and an outstanding clinical education, with a focus on application of latest research findings. Working in a highly collegial manner, nationally recognized faculty provide excellent educational services for students. Students have the opportunity to utilize innovative educational methodologies, including on-line learning activities. The outstanding clinical education program, featuring patient-centered and student-centered General Practices, simulates the structure of a dental practice. Various cooperative efforts with local, state, and federal agencies provide dental services for special-needs populations. Dental graduates are well prepared to enter advanced dental education programs and to practice their professions in a wide range of private practice, public service, and academic settings.

The Doctor of Dental Surgery curriculum effectively integrates the biomedical, behavioral and clinical sciences. The School of Dentistry has its own biomedical science faculty who assure that students develop a solid understanding of oral and craniofacial health and its relationship to overall health. Students begin their patient care experiences during their first year of study. Students acquire a full range of clinical experiences including treatment of emergency, medically compromised, and physically and mentally challenged patients. It is the expectation that all students will have  off-campus rotations for which transportation will be required.  The comprehensive patient care approach to clinical education prepares students for the demanding responsibilities of dental practice.