Dental School Preparation

There are two dental schools in Michigan, one at the University of Detroit Mercy, the other at the University of Michigan.  The Pre-Dental Curriculum Guide is a printable chart showing the prerequisite courses needed to apply to each of the Michigan dental schools.  Other helpful information about the in-state dental programs is shown below, and the links at the bottom can be used to research requirements of out-of-state dental programs.

Additional Recommended Pre-Dental Courses

University of Detroit Mercy (UDM) - In addition the the prerequisites listed in the Pre-Dental Curriculum Guide, the following are recommended courses:  Upper level biological sciences such as comparative anatomy, physiology, molecular genetics, histology, embryology, and virology; behavioral science; communication; medical ehtics; and business courses, such as marketing.  UDM emphasizes rigor -- a full-time load, at a 4-year college/university, with several science courses each semester.
University of Michigan (UM) - In addition to the listed prerequisites, UM suggests upper-level biological science courses, such as anatomy, histology, physiology; public speaking; and art.

Other Activities/Experiences

It is expected that candidates will exhibit a confirmed interest and motivation in a dental career by participating in career-related activities such as job shadowing, community service and other volunteer opportunities.
UDM - One letter of recommendation must come from a dentist attesting to the applicant having spent a reasonable amount of time with the practitioner exploring the dental profession.
UM - A minimum of 100 hours of dental shadowing and/or volunteering is required.

Competitive GPA

UDM - 3.50 science, 3.57 overall
UM - 3.49 science, 3.57 cumulative

Competitive Dental Admission Test (DAT) Score

UDM - 20.0 Academic Average; 20 Perceptual Ability; 20 Total Science
UM - 20.0 Academic Average; 21 Perceptual Ability; 21 Total Science

Michigan Dental School Websites

University of Detroit Mercy

University of Michigan

Other Important Websites

ADEA Official Guide to Dental Schools

American Dental Education Association

Associated American Dental Schools Application Service

CNS Preprofessional student information pages

Explore Health Careers

Resources for Pre-Dental Students