Want to be a dentist? Start with the right major

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Key takeaways about a dentistry major

A dentistry major sets you up for dental school and a career in oral health.
You’ll study biology, chemistry, anatomy, and more—plus build hands-on skills.
Pre-dental tracks can be paired with majors like biology or chemistry.
Dental school requires specific coursework, exams, and licensure.
Careers range from general dentistry to orthodontics, with strong earning potential.

So, what is a dentistry major?

Okay, imagine this: you're the go-to person for helping people smile brighter, chew better, and feel more confident. That’s the vibe of a dentistry major. While “dentistry” isn’t always a standalone undergrad major, it’s a focused track that preps you for dental school. Most students choose a major like biology, chemistry, or health sciences and follow a pre-dental track alongside it.

This combo gives you the science foundation and clinical prep you’ll need to crush dental school applications—and eventually, become a licensed dentist.

What does the pre-dental track look like?

The pre-dental track is like a roadmap. You’ll take courses that dental schools require, such as:

General biology and chemistry
Organic chemistry
Physics
Anatomy and physiology
Microbiology
Biochemistry
Psychology and sociology (yes, people skills matter!)

You’ll also prep for the Dental Admission Test (DAT), which is a big part of your dental school app. Some schools may also want shadowing hours, volunteer work, or research experience.

Best majors for dental school

You don’t have to major in biology to get into dental school—but it’s a popular choice for a reason. Here are some common majors that pair well with a pre-dental track:

Biology: Covers most dental school prerequisites.
Chemistry: Great if you love lab work and molecular science.
Health sciences: Offers a broader view of healthcare.
Biomedical engineering: For tech-savvy students interested in dental devices.
Psychology: Helpful for understanding patient behavior and communication.

Double majors and minors that make sense for dentistry

If you’re feeling ambitious (and organized), a double major or minor can give you an edge. Some smart combos include:

Biology + Psychology: Science + people skills.
Chemistry + Public Health: Lab work + community impact.
Health Sciences + Business: Perfect if you want to run your own practice someday.

Just make sure you’re not overloading yourself—dental school is competitive, but burnout is real.

What skills will I learn studying dentistry?

Besides mastering science, you’ll build skills like:

Manual dexterity: Think steady hands and precision.
Critical thinking: Diagnosing and solving oral health issues.
Communication: Explaining procedures and calming nerves.
Empathy: Connecting with patients and building trust.

These skills aren’t just for school—they’re what make great dentists.

What comes after undergrad?

After your bachelor’s degree, you’ll apply to dental school (usually a 4-year program). Here’s what that path looks like:

Take the DAT: Dental Admission Test.
Apply to dental schools: Through ADEA AADSAS.
Complete dental school: Includes classroom, lab, and clinical training.
Get licensed: Pass the National Board Dental Examination and any state-specific tests.

Some students go on to specialize in areas like orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, or oral surgery—which means more schooling, but also more career options.

Careers with a dental degree

Once you’re licensed, you’ve got options. Common careers include:

General dentist
Orthodontist
Oral surgeon
Pediatric dentist
Prosthodontist
Public health dentist
Dental researcher or educator

And yes, the earning potential is solid. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for dentists is over $160,000/year. Specialists often earn even more.

Notable schools with strong dental programs

Looking for colleges with good dental programs? Here are a few standouts:

University of Michigan
Harvard University - Harvard School of Dental Medicine
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
New York University - College of Dentistry
University of California, San Francisco

Use the Scout College Search to find schools that match your goals and vibe.

Scholarships and financial aid

Dental school isn’t cheap—but there’s help out there if you know where to look. You can explore scholarships tailored to your major through Sallie’s Scholarships by Major page, or check out Scholly Scholarships for curated opportunities. If you’re specifically pursuing dentistry, the Scholarships for Dentistry Majors page is a must-visit. And if you’re just starting out and want something quick and easy, the $2K No Essay Scholarship is a solid option. Apply early, apply often—free money is always a win.

If you’re into science, helping people, and want a career that’s both stable and meaningful, dentistry could be your thing. It’s not easy—there’s a lot of studying, testing, and hands-on work—but if you’re up for the challenge, it’s totally worth it.