Why Study Pre-Dentistry?
The pre-dentistry program provides a well-rounded science foundation that meets the requirements for enrollment to a professional dentistry school. Students gain hands-on experience by practicing with an artificial cadaver and through ceramics courses that look at three-dimensional shaping.
Partnerships with local dentists allow for profession-based learning experiences such as job shadowing and observation opportunities.
Profession-Based Learning Experiences
With more than 26 labs in the Garrett-Strong Science Building and $3 million invested in state-of-the-art equipment in the Dean L. Hubbard Center for Innovation, students get multiple hands-on experiences to ensure they are prepared for dental school.
Preparation for Dental Programs
Northwest offers pre-professional courses of study which encompass many careers. In most instances, these courses have been compiled in conjunction with specific requirements of professional schools. Many professional schools require specific procedures in regard to entrance tests, application deadlines and interviews. Thus, students are encouraged to speak with faculty advisors in order to identify the best path for them to achieve their goal.
Students interested in attending a dental program will find that entrance requirements are very similar to the entrance requirements for medical school. For this reason, majors such as Comprehensive B.S. in Biology: Biomedical Track, Comprehensive B.S. in Biology: General Biology Track, and B.S. in Chemistry: Medicinal Chemistry Emphasis would be appropriate selections.
In addition to coursework, students intending to apply to dental school will need to gain additional experience shadowing, observing, and working in the work environment or their chosen field. This experience should be gained throughout the student's undergraduate career.
The Northwest Difference
Founded in 1905, Northwest is a traditional campus with more than 7,200 undergraduate and graduate students. Located in the middle of everywhere, Maryville is two hours from Omaha, Nebraska and Kansas City, Missouri and 2 ½ hours from Des Moines, Iowa.
The Bearcat Advantage provides out-of-state students the opportunity to earn in-state tuition rates that can save more than $7,500. With the average undergraduate financial aid award of $3,588 for in-state students and $9,804 for out-of-state students, Northwest offers a quality education at an affordable price.
At Northwest, the American Dream Grant covers 100% of the tuition and fees for Pell-eligible students.

Save more than $7,200 over four years through our textbooks and laptop program.
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Nearly $22 Million in scholarships and grants awarded annually.
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Students organizations, internships and profession-based learning experiences ensure students are Career Ready, Day One.
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Graduation Rate: 90th percentile of Northwest's national peer group.