Program Overview
The pre-dental program at University of the Cumberlands offers two tracks, Biology and Chemistry, to prepare students for dental school and careers in oral healthcare. The program emphasizes fundamental knowledge in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, as well as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Graduates are equipped for careers as dentists, dental hygienists, medical assistants, chemists, and more, with the field of oral healthcare projected to grow in the coming years.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The pre-dental program at University of the Cumberlands is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in dental school and in various fields of oral care and related sciences. The program emphasizes the development of fundamental knowledge in modern concepts of biology, chemistry, and mathematics, as well as the ability to effectively use informational resources, perform research, and interpret data. Students will also sharpen their communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills, and begin learning the basics of oral care, including the emotional care of patients.
Outline:
The pre-dental program at University of the Cumberlands offers two tracks: a Biology track and a Chemistry track.
Biology Track:
- Course Requirements:
- Biology Courses (19 hours): BIOL 111, BIOL 113, BIOL 114, BIOL 133, BIOL 134, BIOL 210, BIOL 246, BIOL 340, BIOL 495 or BIOL 498
- Math & Science Courses (18 hours): MATH 132 (or higher math course), CHEM 132, CHEM 111, CHEM 232, CHEM 211
- Pre-Professional Electives (18 hours): Select from the following: BIOL 331, BIOL 342, BIOL 345, BIOL 346, BIOL 436, BIOL 441, BIOL 442, BIOL 443, BIOL 445, BIOL 446, BIOL 447
- Remaining 7 hours: Select from the following: PHYS 241, PHYS 242, PHYS 137, PHYS 117, BIOL 231, BIOL 116
Chemistry Track:
- Course Requirements:
Careers:
The pre-dental program at University of the Cumberlands prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities in the field of oral healthcare. Graduates may pursue careers as general dentists, dental hygienists, medical assistants, chemists, natural sciences managers, or clinical researchers. The field of oral healthcare is projected to add 11,100 new jobs by 2030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
