List of Dental Schools in North Carolina (2025)
If you’re considering pursuing a career in dentistry in North Carolina, this comprehensive guide to dental schools in NC is a must-read.
Posted March 6, 2025
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If you’re planning to pursue a career in dentistry, North Carolina offers excellent educational opportunities. The state is home to several top-ranked dental schools, providing aspiring dentists with world-class training, hands-on clinical experience, and strong career prospects. Notably, the UNC Adams School of Dentistry, located on Columbia Street in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, stands out as a premier institution contributing significantly to oral health care education and outreach.
This guide covers everything you need to know about dental schools in North Carolina, including admission requirements, curriculum, financial aid options, clinical training, research opportunities, extracurricular activities, and post-graduation career paths.
What Are Dental Schools?
Dental schools train students to become dentists, oral health care specialists, and dental researchers. These programs focus on patient care, technical skills, and medical knowledge related to dentistry and dental medicine. Graduates earn degrees such as a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) and go on to practice in clinics, hospitals, or academic settings. Additionally, these institutions emphasize innovation in dental education and practice, encouraging graduates to develop new solutions to address oral healthcare challenges and actively engage in community efforts.
Why Choose North Carolina for Dental School?
- Top Dental Schools: The state offers highly respected dental programs with expert faculty and cutting-edge research opportunities.
- Strong Job Market: With a growing population and high demand for dentists, North Carolina provides excellent career prospects for graduates.
- Diverse Patient Base: Students gain hands-on experience working with patients from various backgrounds, preparing them for careers in general dentistry, dental medicine, and specialized fields.
Living in North Carolina as a Dental Student
- Mild Climate & Scenic Beauty: From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coast, the state provides plenty of outdoor activities.
- Thriving Cities: Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham offer a mix of entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to other states with top dental schools, North Carolina provides a more affordable lifestyle.
How to Choose a Dental School: Factors to Consider
Accreditation and Program Offerings
- Ensure the school is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).
- Check for DDS, DMD, and advanced specialty programs.
Clinical Training and Patient Care Experience
- Look for schools that provide hands-on experience in patient care.
- Evaluate access to dental clinics, hospitals, and community service programs.
Faculty and Research Opportunities
- Schools with strong faculty and research programs allow students to explore innovations in dentistry.
- Research-driven institutions often have well-funded laboratories and academic resources.
Career Support and Residency Placement
- Some schools have better residency match rates and job placement services.
- Career services can help students transition into professional practice.
Student Life and Support Networks
- Clubs, networking events, and mentorship programs can enhance the student experience.
- Access to faculty and student support services is important for professional growth.
The Best Dental Schools in North Carolina
| School Name | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Adams School of Dentistry | 17% |
| Duke University (Dental Research and Training Programs) | 6% |
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh (Pre-Dental and Dental Science Programs) | 47% |
| Wake Forest University (Dental and Health Sciences Focus) | 21% |
| University of North Carolina at Charlotte (Pre-Dental and Oral Health Studies) | 80% |
| East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine | 92% |
| Appalachian State University (Pre-Dental Track) | 83% |
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro (Dental Research and Training) | 92% |
1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Adams School of Dentistry
Location: Chapel Hill, NC, on Columbia Street
Programs: DDS, DMD, specialty residencies, and research programs
| Acceptance Rate | 17% |
|---|---|
| Average SAT | 1440 |
| Average ACT | 32 |
| Receiving Financial Aid | 59% |
In-House Clinics:
- Dental Faculty Practice
- Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic
- Graduate Periodontics Clinic
Example Courses:
- Restorative Dentistry
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics
- Public Health in Dentistry
The UNC Adams School of Dentistry is one of the most recognized dental schools in North Carolina and ranks among the top programs in the country. It offers students a blend of clinical experience, research, and opportunities to specialize in dental medicine and oral health care.
2. Duke University (Dental Research and Training Programs)
Location: Durham, NC
Programs: Dental research and graduate-level training
| Acceptance Rate | 6% |
|---|---|
| Average SAT | 1530 |
| Average ACT | 35 |
| Tuition | $23,694 |
Research Facilities:
- Biomaterials Research Laboratory
- Oral Microbiology Center
- Dental Biomechanics Lab
Example Research Areas:
- Dental Implants and Tissue Engineering
- Oral Cancer Prevention
- Biomaterials for Restorative Dentistry
While Duke University does not offer a DDS program, it is a leader in dental research. Students interested in dental medicine and biomedical sciences can collaborate with faculty on oral health care advancements.
3. North Carolina State University (Pre-Dental and Dental Science Programs)
Location: Raleigh, NC
Programs: Pre-dental track and dental research
| Acceptance Rate | 47% |
|---|---|
| Average SAT | 1370 |
| Average ACT | 31 |
| Receiving Financial Aid | 80% |
In-House Programs:
- Biomedical Sciences Research Initiative
- Oral Health Sciences Pre-Dental Track
Example Courses:
- Introduction to Dental Materials
- Anatomy for Pre-Dental Students
- Dental Ethics and Public Health
NC State University offers a pre-dental program that prepares students for dental schools in North Carolina. The faculty supports students through research and clinical training, providing exposure to oral health care and dentistry.
4. Wake Forest University (Dental and Health Sciences Focus)
Location: Winston-Salem, NC
Programs: Research and health sciences training
| Acceptance Rate | 21% |
|---|---|
| Net Price | $26,197 |
| Receiving Financial Aid | 37% |
| Average Aid | $54,233 |
Research Areas:
- Oral Health and Disease Prevention
- Biomaterials for Dentistry
- 3D Printing in Prosthodontics
Example Courses:
- Biomedical Engineering for Dentistry
- Oral Microbiology Research
- Dental Public Health
Wake Forest University offers a health sciences focus with opportunities for students to explore dentistry through its pre-dental programs and research initiatives. With an acceptance rate of 21%, Wake Forest provides a smaller, close-knit academic community for students interested in oral health care. Though it doesn’t offer a DDS program, Wake Forest supports students interested in pursuing careers in dental medicine by providing exposure to oral health sciences and interdisciplinary research opportunities. The university’s excellent faculty and research programs foster a well-rounded dental education.
5. University of North Carolina at Charlotte (Pre-Dental and Oral Health Studies)
Location: Charlotte, NC
Programs: Pre-dental studies and oral health research
| Acceptance Rate | 80% |
|---|---|
| Average SAT | 1180 |
| Average ACT | 24 |
| Receiving Financial Aid | 75% |
In-House Programs:
- Pre-Dental Advising Program
- Oral Health Research Initiative
Example Courses:
- Foundations of Dental Science
- Human Anatomy for Pre-Dental Students
- Dental Public Health
UNC Charlotte offers strong academic support and hands-on learning experiences that ensure students are well-prepared for their future dental education. The university’s proximity to the vibrant city of Charlotte offers students access to various professional networks and clinical opportunities.
6. East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine
Location: Greenville, NC
Programs: DDS with a focus on rural dental care
| Acceptance Rate | 92% |
|---|---|
| Average SAT | 80% |
| Average ACT | $9,020 |
| Tuition | 27,151 |
In-House Clinics:
- Community Service Learning Centers (CSLCs)
- Pediatric Dentistry Clinic
- Oral Surgery & Prosthodontics Clinic
Example Courses:
- Rural Dentistry and Community Health
- Geriatric and Special Needs Dentistry
- Clinical Periodontics
- Dental Public Health
The East Carolina University School of Dental Medicine is known for its community-based training. Students gain hands-on experience working with patients in underserved regions through Community Service Learning Centers (CSLCs), preparing them for careers in general dentistry and public health. ECU’s focus on community-based care and its affordable tuition make it a top choice for aspiring dentists committed to serving diverse populations.
7. Appalachian State University (Pre-Dental Track)
Location: Boone, NC
Programs: Pre-Dental Studies
| Acceptance Rate | 83% |
|---|---|
| Average SAT | 1185 |
| Average ACT | 24 |
| Receiving Financial Aid | 70% |
Example Courses:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Introduction to Public Health
- Biochemistry for Dental Sciences
Appalachian State University offers a pre-dental program designed to prepare students for dental school applications. The program focuses on building a strong foundation in the sciences, ethics, and patient care, ensuring students are well-prepared for the next steps in their dental education. Appalachian State University’s commitment to accessibility and quality education makes it an ideal choice for aspiring dental students.
8. University of North Carolina at Greensboro (Dental Research and Training)
Location: Greensboro, NC
Programs: Research and pre-dental pathways
| Acceptance Rate | 92% |
|---|---|
| Average SAT | 1195 |
| Average ACT | 25 |
| Receiving Financial Aid | 91% |
In-House Research Centers:
- Center for Oral Health and Disease Prevention
- Dental Biomechanics Lab
Example Courses:
- Oral Pathology and Disease Prevention
- Biomechanics in Dental Medicine
UNC Greensboro offers students the opportunity to engage in dental medicine research and clinical training programs. UNC Greensboro provides a strong academic curriculum and access to clinical and research opportunities in the field of dentistry. The university’s diverse and supportive community helps students build a strong foundation for a successful career in dental medicine.
Working in Dentistry After Graduation
After completing your dental education, the next step is to begin your career in dentistry. North Carolina provides ample opportunities for newly graduated dentists, with a high demand for skilled professionals in both urban and rural areas.
1. Licensure and Certification
To practice dentistry in North Carolina, you must pass the National Board of Dental Examinations (NBDE) and the Clinical Examination for North Carolina. Additionally, you may need to meet specific state requirements depending on the area of practice, such as general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, or oral surgery. It's essential to stay up-to-date with continuing education to maintain licensure.
2. Career Paths
- Private Practice: Many dentists begin their careers by joining or starting a private practice. The demand for dental services continues to grow, especially in underserved and rural areas.
- Public Health: For those interested in giving back to the community, public health dentistry is a rewarding career path. Dentists in this field often work in schools, clinics, and government programs to improve access to care for vulnerable populations.
- Specialty Areas: If you’re interested in further specialization, you can pursue post-graduate training in areas such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral and maxillofacial surgery. Specialized professionals are often in high demand and can expect higher earning potential.
3. Job Market and Career Growth
North Carolina’s growing population, expanding healthcare needs, and a diverse demographic create a strong job market for dentists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for dental professionals is expected to rise as the population ages and oral health awareness increases. Dentists in North Carolina can expect competitive salaries and opportunities for career advancement, especially in private practice or specialized fields.
4. Networking and Professional Development
Once you graduate, joining professional organizations like the North Carolina Dental Society or the American Dental Association is essential. These groups provide networking opportunities, continuing education programs, and support to help you grow your practice and stay updated on industry trends. Additionally, local dental associations often host events and workshops, offering a platform to connect with fellow dentists and potential employers.
Bottom Line
North Carolina is an ideal location for aspiring dentists looking for excellent education and career opportunities. With its top-notch dental schools, diverse population, growing economy, and plenty of extracurricular activities, the state provides a conducive environment for students to pursue their dream of becoming dentists. From highly competitive institutions like UNC Chapel Hill to community-focused programs like East Carolina University, the state offers a variety of dental education paths that cater to different aspirations. Whether you are looking for hands-on clinical experiences, innovative research, or a strong academic foundation, North Carolina has something to offer. We hope this guide has provided you with useful information to help you make an informed decision about pursuing dental education in North Carolina.
The dental school admissions process can be difficult. A coach can help you understand the requirements, improve your application, and prepare for the Dental Admission Test (DAT). Dental School Admissions Coaches can help you with application strategies and give you tips on what top dental schools look for in applicants
Related Articles
If you're exploring a career in dentistry or considering dental schools, the following articles may provide additional insights and guidance to help you in your journey:
- How to Ace the Dental Admission Test (DAT): 5 Tips for Success
- Everything You Need to Know About Dental School
- ADEA Pre-Dental Requirements 2025
- An In-Depth Guide to the Dental School Application Timeline
- List of Endodontic Residency Programs in the US (2025)
- How Many Shadowing Hours for Dental School? The Ultimate Guide (2025)
- Dental School Interview Guide (2025)
- Dental School Requirements: What You Need to Apply
FAQs
How many dental schools are there in North Carolina?
- There are eight dental schools and pre-dental programs in North Carolina, including well-known institutions such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, East Carolina University, and Duke University. These schools offer a variety of programs, including DDS, DMD, and research-focused opportunities in dental medicine.
What GPA do you need to get into UNC dental school?
- To be competitive for admission to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Adams School of Dentistry, applicants typically need a GPA of 3.5 or higher. The admissions process is highly selective, and the average GPA of admitted students is generally around 3.7 to 3.9. Along with academic performance, applicants should have strong Dental Admission Test (DAT) scores, relevant experience, and a well-rounded application.
What is the #1 dental school in the US?
- The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry is consistently ranked as the #1 dental school in the U.S. according to various sources like U.S. News & World Report. UCLA offers cutting-edge programs in oral health care, dental research, and clinical training. It is known for producing highly skilled dental professionals and researchers.
Does the University of North Carolina have a dental school?
- Yes, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has one of the top-ranked dental schools in the country, the Adams School of Dentistry. It offers a comprehensive DDS program, as well as specialty residencies and research opportunities in dental medicine. The school is highly regarded for its focus on clinical training, patient care, and dental research.
