Pre-Dentistry
Take the next step to becoming a dentist. We offer a robust and rigorous curriculum, paired with unique learning opportunities, that will prepare you for a successful career in dentistry.
Specialized support is available to pre-dentistry students through the Health Careers Center.
Become a Critical Member of the Healthcare Team
If you’re passionate about improving people’s daily lives — and their smiles — dentistry may be a great fit. Dentists often work in private practices with a small team focused on improving an essential part of human health. There are a number of ways that dentists do this, including filling cavities, reviewing X-rays, removing damaged teeth, and teaching patients about oral health.
Pre-dentistry is not a major at UW-Eau Claire, but rather a declaration of your intention to continue your education and enroll in dental school. A specific major is not required to get into dental school, but many UWEC pre-dentistry students choose to major in biology, chemistry, biology with a microbiology emphasis, or biochemistry and molecular biology. A popular minor for pre-professional health students is pre-professional health science, a program specifically developed to provide a framework for completing pre-professional school requirements.
Entry into dental school is based on your academic record, the results of the DAT (Dental Admissions Test), and other criteria set by particular programs. Certain skills and experiences are also usually favored when applying to dental school. For example, students are usually required to obtain direct experience in a dental/oral health office or clinic. Pre-dentistry students are supported by exceptional advisors and faculty. Staff in the Health Careers Center are knowledgeable on the pre-dentistry requirements and the dental school application process. They will assist you in developing a competitive application.
Program Details
Are you planning a future in a health career? UW-Eau Claire is one of only a few schools of its size with a specialized Health Careers Center dedicated to helping you achieve your health career goals. We offer access to targeted programming, high-quality clinical and volunteering opportunities, and personalized academic and pre-professional advising delivered by our caring expert staff.
UWEC is known for its incredible study abroad opportunities — and pre-dentistry students are welcome to participate. An international experience can complement and enhance both your general program of study and your pre-health interests. Moreover, fluency in a language other than English and cross-cultural experience can enhance your application to a health professional school.
Blugold Stories
Biology major Steph Walters understands the importance of loving your smile. While studying in the Dominican Republic, she had the opportunity to create partials or bridges for individuals who wanted them. Seeing the transitions and the joy they brought, Steph was determined more than ever about pursuing dentistry.
Where can the pre-dentistry program lead me after graduation?
After completing your undergraduate degree at UWEC, your next step toward becoming a dentist is earning either your doctor of dental surgery (DDS) or doctor of medical dentistry (DMD) degree.
UW-Eau Claire's acceptance rate for students to dental school is above the national average. More importantly, our students are well-prepared for dental school and perform well as dental students. Most UWEC students attend Marquette University School of Dentistry or the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.
Suggested pre-dentistry courses at UWEC consist of courses needed to meet the entrance requirements for the majority of dental schools and to prepare you for the Dental Admission Test (DAT).
Courses you can expect as a pre-dentistry student include general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, introductory and advanced biology, physics, and psychology. Requirements vary by program and students should connect with the Health Careers Center and access pre health advising information early and often. Visit the Health Careers Center for a more detailed guide on pre-dentistry advising.
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