How do 7-year accelerated dental programs work?

Hi all! I came across 7-year accelerated dental programs, which sound perfect for someone interested in dentistry like me. Can anyone provide more information on how these programs work? What should I look for when applying and what are some well-known programs I should consider?

Hi there! Seven-year accelerated dental programs are an excellent choice for students who are sure about their interest in dentistry and looking to secure their spot in a dental school from the onset. These combined programs typically involve three years of undergraduate study followed by four years of dental school.

When researching and applying to these programs, keep the following factors in mind:

1. Admission requirements: Familiarize yourself with both the undergraduate and dental school admission requirements. Some programs may require specific high school coursework, a minimum GPA, and standardized test scores (like the SAT or ACT).

2. Guaranteed admission vs. conditional admission: Some programs guarantee your admission into dental school as long as you meet certain requirements during your undergraduate years (like maintaining a specific GPA or achieving a certain DAT score). On the other hand, some programs offer conditional admission, meaning you would still need to apply to dental school separately but may have a streamlined application process.

3. Curriculum: Ensure the program's curriculum aligns with your academic interests. The undergraduate portion may include a specific major or pre-dental coursework, and you may have an opportunity to start taking dental school courses while still an undergraduate.

4. Mentorship and support: Look for programs that offer strong mentorship and support systems, such as faculty advisors, research opportunities, and clinical experiences to help you be better prepared for dental school and your future career.

A few well-known 7-year accelerated dental programs to consider are:

- Boston University (BU) Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine: This program offers a combined Bachelor's and Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree in a 7-year track.

- Rutgers University and the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine: In this program, you'll complete your undergraduate degree at Rutgers University followed by dental school at the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine.

- University of the Pacific's Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry: This accelerated program allows you to earn a Bachelor's degree in two years and complete your Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in just five more years.

Remember, these programs can be competitive, so it's important to demonstrate your commitment to dentistry through extracurricular activities, shadowing, or volunteering at dental clinics during high school. Best of luck!