Pre-Dentistry at North Park

The pre-dentistry track provides the coursework and advising needed to build a strong foundation for dental school applications. This track pairs with a major, giving you a solid background in life sciences and human biology.

Pre-professional tracks help you build a strong foundation for graduate school or professional programs. These tracks aren’t standalone majors, but a curated set of courses designed to complement your chosen field of study. Pre-dentistry students receive guidance Advisor for Advanced Education in the Health Professions Ekaterini Koutsouris. Your advisors will help you explore your interests in pre-dentistry, stay on track academically, and prepare for dental school applications and interviews

Featured course

BIOL 1250–Introduction to Human Anatomy

 Includes structure and organization of human organ systems emphasizing skeletal, muscular, digestive, circulatory, respiratory, nervous, and urogenital systems. Lab included with cadaver demonstrations. It is recommended that the student complete one year of high school laboratory science. This course is designed for students majoring in the sciences, healthcare, or nursing.

Recommended courses 

To prepare for dental school and a career in healthcare, we recommend taking the following courses alongside your major and Core Curriculum requirements. These courses fulfill prerequisites for most dental programs but be sure to check specific program requirements. Some courses may also count toward your major or Core Curriculum. For full course descriptions, visit the academic catalog.

Dental school admission prerequisites

• Introduction to Human Anatomy

• Introduction to Cell Biology

• Advanced Human Physiology

• Microbiology

• Introductory Chemistry I and II

• Organic Chemistry I

• Organic Chemistry II

• Biochemistry

• Introductory Physics I

• Introductory Physics II 

Additional recommendations

• Most students take the DAT (Dental Admission Test) in the summer after their third year. Dental schools also value internship and research experience, so we encourage you to gain hands-on exposure in the field. Your faculty advisors will help you find opportunities that fit your schedule and career goals.
• Before your fourth year, you should also complete the AADSAS (American Association of Dental Schools Application Service) to begin the application process.