2 Routes: Become a DentistEveryone's pathway to become a dentist is different. Common routes for OSU students include:
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OSU Bachelor's + Dental School
OSU bachelor's degree then attend a doctoral-level dental school program.
Steps:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree (of your choice) from OSU and complete all of your prerequisite courses* for an accredited Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) program.
- Apply to an accredited dental school program. If accepted, begin your D.D.S. or D.M.D. professional school program.
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OSU Bachelor's + Gap Year + Dental School
Taking additional time can be to your advantage as a dental school applicant.
Steps:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree (of your choice) from OSU and complete all of your prerequisite courses* for an accredited Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) program.
- If you feel you need more holistic development (academic or non-academic) to be ready to professionally apply, consider taking a “gap/enhancement year” to help you further develop.
- Unsure of what to do during a gap year? Explore Should I Take a Gap Year and The Value of a Gap Year from the American Dental Education Association.
- When holistically ready, apply to an accredited dental school program. If accepted, begin your D.D.S. or D.M.D. professional school program.