The four-year curriculum begins with foundational studies in biomedical and dental sciences, progresses to applied laboratory and simulated patient experiences, and culminates with clinical training and comprehensive patient care. Completion of the prescribed program leads to a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree. Significant opportunities for treating patients is a hallmark of the student's training at the College of Dentistry and promotes the formation of strong clinical skills and development of excellent practitioners.
In addition to completing the curriculum required by the College of Dentistry, students must also pass regional and national examinations administered by organized dentistry in order to receive a degree and become licensed to practice.
There is an extensive body of information and a host of new skills to master in a relatively short time. An average course load is about 25 credit-hours per semester and all courses must be completed with a "C" or higher in order to advance to the next succeeding level. The learning experience features a team-based approach that promotes positive peer interaction and camaraderie, and all patient care provided by students is done under the supervision of licensed and highly-qualified dental faculty.
Patient interaction begins in the first year, and is accompanied by curriculum that focuses on developing a solid foundation in the biomedical sciences with introduction to the various disciplines in dentistry. As students progress to the second year, instruction involves more hands-on exercises in which they learn to perform procedures in a laboratory or simulated (preclinical) patient environment. Third year students spend substantially more time treating patients for specific dental concerns with emphasis shifting to comprehensive management and treatment of patients in year four of the curriculum.