Program Overview

Pre-Dentistry Program

Overview

The University of the Cumberlands' pre-dentistry program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the sciences and prepare them for admission into dental school. The program is a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Pre-Professional Health Emphasis.

Types

• Pre-Professional

Location

• On-Campus

Credits

• 53*

Cost

• $9,875

Mission and Goals

The mission of the pre-dentistry program at University of the Cumberlands is to provide the knowledge and skills that will prepare students for dental school and help them succeed in various fields of service in oral care and related sciences.

• Gain fundamental knowledge in modern concepts of biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
• Effectively use informational resources, perform research, and interpret data.
• Demonstrate critical and analytical thought within the context of the scientific method.
• Sharpen communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
• Begin learning the basics of oral care – including the emotional care of patients.

Career Outcomes

• Dentist: $163,220
• Dental Hygienist: $77,810
• Medical Assistant: $37,190
• Chemist: $79,760
• Natural Sciences Manager: $137,900
• Clinical Researcher: $95,310

Programs & Requirements

• General Education Requirements
• Pre-Professional Health Curriculum

Course Requirements

• Biology Courses (18 hours)
  • BIOL 331 - Vertebrate Embryology
  • BIOL 342 - Parasitology
  • BIOL 345 - Microbiology
  • BIOL 346 - Biochemistry
  • BIOL 436 - Medical Biochemistry
  • BIOL 441 - Immunology
  • BIOL 442 - Comparative Anatomy
  • BIOL 443 - General Physiology
  • BIOL 445 - Molecular Biology
  • BIOL 446 - Advanced Cell Biology
  • BIOL 447 - Histology
• Chemistry (35 hours)
  • CHEM 132 - General College Chemistry I
  • CHEM 111 - General Chemistry Laboratory I
  • CHEM 232 - General College Chemistry II
  • CHEM 211 - General Chemistry Laboratory II
  • CHEM 331 - Organic Chemistry I
  • CHEM 321 - Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
  • CHEM 332 - Organic Chemistry II
  • CHEM 322 - Organic Chemistry Laboratory II
  • CHEM 336 - Analytical Chemistry
  • CHEM 328 - Analytical Chemistry Laboratory
  • CHEM 441 - Physical Chemistry I with Laboratory
  • CHEM 434 - Inorganic Chemistry
  • CHEM 490 - Senior Research Project
  • CHEM 491 - Selected Topics in Chemistry
• Bachelor of Arts option (12 hours)
  • FREN 131 - Elementary French I
  • FREN 132 - Elementary French II
  • FREN 231 - Intermediate French I
  • FREN 232 - Intermediate French II
  • SPAN 131 - Elementary Spanish I
  • SPAN 132 - Elementary Spanish II
  • SPAN 231 - Intermediate Spanish I
  • SPAN 232 - Intermediate Spanish II

Faculty

• Ms. Kara Stanley - Adjunct Professor, Biology
• Jeffrey Schwarz - Associate Professor, Chemistry
• Dr. Leif Deyrup - Assistant Professor, Biology

FAQs

• What is pre-dentistry?
  • A pre-dental degree develops students in areas preferred by dental schools, including the natural sciences, social studies, and humanities.
• What can I do with a pre-dentistry degree?
  • The field of oral healthcare is diverse and rewarding, with various career options and the flexibility to work in different settings.
• Is majoring in pre-dentistry worth it?
  • Yes, majoring in pre-dentistry is worth it, as it provides career preparation, flexible career opportunities, and personalized advising.
• What types of courses will I take as a pre-dentistry major?
  • Courses will be based on whether you choose to major in biology or chemistry, and will include basic coursework in areas such as English, humanities, and social sciences.