Build bright futures, Begin with a strong foundation
Presbyterian College’s Pre-Dental Program provides students with the academic rigor and personalized advising needed for successful admission into dental schools. Rooted in PC’s tradition of service, leadership, and scholarship, the program prepares students to excel in dentistry and oral healthcare professions, combining scientific mastery with compassionate care.
The Power of Your Degree
- Expand your perspective.
Explore the biological, chemical, and clinical aspects of oral health through an interdisciplinary lens. - Broaden your knowledge.
Study rigorous coursework in the sciences while developing critical thinking and communication skills essential for patient care. - Solidify your skill set.
Participate in clinical observation, research, and service opportunities to build a competitive dental school application. - Become a critical thinker.
Learn to diagnose problems, create treatment plans, and advocate for patient health and well-being.
Varied Coursework
Required in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and the social sciences
Personalized Advising
Dedicated faculty advisors provide mentorship, course planning, DAT preparation support, and dental school guidance
12:1 Student-To-Faculty Ratio
In discussion-based classroom settings
What You’ll Study
The Pre-Dental curriculum emphasizes the foundational sciences—biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics—along with courses that strengthen reading, writing, and analytical skills. Students also explore advanced coursework such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology, which align with dental school prerequisites. Clinical observation, service-learning, and leadership activities are highly encouraged to prepare students for the application process.
Get Involved
At Presbyterian College, you can actively pursue your future in dentistry through programs and opportunities that take your discipline out of the classroom and into the real world—all while expanding your experience, perspective, and skillsets.
Careers in Dentistry
PC’s Pre-Dental Program prepares students for entry into dental schools and graduate programs in general dentistry and dental specialties. Careers in dentistry offer the opportunity to combine science, artistry, patient care, and public health advocacy into a fulfilling professional life.
Career Professions
General Dentist (D.D.S. or D.M.D.)
Orthodontist
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
Pediatric Dentist
Endodontist
Periodontist
Prosthodontist
Public Health Dentist
Cosmetic Dentist
Dental Research Scientist
Forensic Odontologist
Oral Pathologist
Dental Anesthesiologist
Academic Dentistry Faculty
Hospital Dentist
Dental Practice Owner
Community Health Dental Advocate
International Dental Missionary
Dental Public Policy Advisor
Consultant for Dental Product Development
Acquired Skills
Scientific and clinical knowledge for oral health diagnosis and treatment
Mastery of biological and chemical principles
Critical thinking and problem-solving in clinical settings
Technical skills for patient-centered care
Communication and interpersonal skills with patients and healthcare teams
Ethical decision-making in dental practice
Data analysis and laboratory research techniques
Time management and multitasking under pressure
Team collaboration in healthcare environments
Patient education and preventive care strategies
Leadership and community engagement
Cultural competence and sensitivity
Understanding of healthcare systems and access issues
Public speaking and academic presentation
Preparation for Dental Admission Test (DAT) success
Lifelong learning and commitment to continuing education
Quick Stats
$166,300
Average Median Salary of a Dentist
General dentists earned a median annual salary of $166,300 in 2023. The top 25 percent earned around $218,030, while the bottom 25 percent earned approximately $123,670 per year. Salaries can vary based on factors such as geographic location, level of education, and years of experience.
8% Growth
Projected Employment Rate
Employment of dentists is projected to grow by 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. Approximately 11,100 openings for dentists are projected each year, on average, due to the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
High Versatility
Career Diversity Index
A pre-dental major offers high career versatility, with opportunities in various sectors including private dental practices, hospitals, outpatient care centers, and public health organizations. Graduates can pursue roles such as general dentists, dental specialists (e.g., orthodontists, periodontists), dental researchers, and educators. The broad skill set acquired—encompassing patient care, dental procedures, and oral health education—equips individuals to adapt and thrive in diverse professional environments.
Source(s): U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
