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UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC PREPARATION FOR DENTAL SCHOOL
What major is required for admission to Schools of Dentistry?
There is no specific major that students must complete for entry into Schools of Dentistry; however, dental students are required to take Biology, Inorganic and Organic Chemistry, Physics, and English. Undergraduates planning to attend a school of dentistry may concentrate in the sciences, but virtually any major is acceptable as long as the prerequisites are met. Candidates must have competitive GPAs, high scores on DATs, excellent letters of recommendation, and demonstrate a strong commitment to the profession.
Can undergraduates pursue their pre-dentistry majors at Temple University?
Yes, Temple is an excellent choice and offers challenging undergraduate programs in over 100 majors. All of the basic sciences are offered at Temple, including lecture and laboratory components of Biology, Organic and Inorganic Chemistry and General Physics. Temple also offers extensive programs in Mathematics (including Calculus) and the Humanities. Students may also pursue pre-dental majors at Temple University Ambler.
Does Temple assist its undergraduates who apply to the Temple School of Dentistry?
Yes, University advisers work closely with Temple pre-dental students in determining their course of study as undergraduates. They will recommend the best sequence students should follow for the required courses. In addition, they help students with the application process. This includes creating a complete file of letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other required materials.
What is the application process for Schools of Dentistry?
Schools of Dentistry, including Temple School of Dentistry, utilize the American Association of Dental Schools Application Services (AADSAS). Applications may be obtained by writing directly to AADSAS at the following address:
ADDSAS
1625 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Sixth Floor
Washington, DC 20036-2212
Voice: 202.667.9433
Fax: 202.667.0642
Web: www.aads.jhu.eduApplications should be submitted as soon as possible but no later than March 15 of the year for which the application is made.
Applications are reviewed by an Admissions Committee. A wide range of factors is considered in the initial review process, including the applicant’s undergraduate academic records, Dental Admission test (DAT) scores, letters of recommendation, essay, work experience, and other credentials.
Applicants who pass this initial screening are invited to visit the School for a formal interview and to meet current students, tour the facility, and review financial aid and housing procedures. This gives applicants the opportunity to learn more about the programs on offer; it also enables the Admissions Committee to learn more about applicants, evaluating their motivation, approach to problems and human relations skills.
Following the Admission Committee review, applicants are accepted, rejected, or placed on an alternate list. No notification of status is sent prior to December 1 of the year preceding enrollment. While most acceptance notices are routinely mailed by June 1 of the year for which application is made, some applicants may be admitted from the alternate list during the summer. Upon acceptance, students must send a non-refundable deposit to hold a seat in the class.
Why should you choose Temple University School of Dentistry?
Temple University School of Dentistry is the second oldest dental school in continuous existence since 1863. Because the school enjoys support and commitment from Temple University and the state of the Pennsylvania and full-accreditation status from the American Dental Association, it will continue to deliver its predoctoral and postgraduate programs well into the 21st century.
Although a multitude of research opportunities exists, Temple’s strength has always been excellence and mastery in the practice of dentistry. The comprehensive treatment curriculum cultivates competency in manual dexterity, diagnostic, preventive, and treatment skills, and encourages the development of basic business acumen. Temple graduates are known for their confidence and ability to treat any patient with nearly any condition. Approximately sixty percent of graduating seniors continue their education in post-graduate programs; popular choices include Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics, Periodontology, Endodontology, Pediatric Dentistry, Advanced Education in Genereal Dentistry, and General Practice Residencies.
A major urban institution, Temple Dental has over 70,000 patients on its rolls from various socio-economic strata. When they enter the clinical part of the curriculum, students manage their own “mini-practices” assigned by the School. The large size and diversity of this pool contributes immeasurably to our students’ dental education.
What specialties are available in Dentistry?
Most students enter the field of general dentistry after graduating from Temple Dental School. However, the school offers advanced training in the specialties of Periodontology, Endodontology, and Orthodontics. In addition, an Advanced Education Program in General Dentistry is available at Temple Dental School.
What program of study does Temple offer in Dental Medicine?
Temple offers the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), and the combined Doctor of Dental Medicine and Master of Business Administration program (DMD-MBA).
What is studied at Temple University School of Dentistry?
The predoctoral program prepares graduates for the practice of general dentistry. Providing students with significant experience in all phases of dental practice, its curriculum emphasizes the basic sciences and patient management skills needed by dental practitioners. It also provides a solid foundation for careers in dental specialties, dental education, and research.
The first two years focus on the basic sciences taught by faculty from Temple University School of Medicine, as well as dental sciences and pre-clinical laboratory courses. The courses are comprehensive, including subject matter relevant to the practice of dentistry. By the end of the second year, students are ready to begin practicing virtually all phases of dentistry. Most of the last two years of the program is spent providing clinical care for patients.
How long does it take to complete the Dental Degree?
Students must first successfully complete an undergraduate degree, preferably in the sciences or a liberal arts curriculum. Then students must complete a four-year dental curriculum.
The School of Dentistry has established affiliation agreements with 16 Pennsylvania colleges and universities, including Temple University. Students who matriculate into the affiliation program and fulfill the admissions requirements are granted acceptance to Temple University School of Dentistry after the third year of college. Upon successful completion of the first year of dental school the student is awarded a degree from his/her university or college.
For more information about Temple University's Kornberg School of Dentistry: : www.temple.edu/dentistry
ARE YOU PREPARED FOR PRE-DENTAL STUDIES?