Dental

This track prepares students for entry into dental schools (DMD/DDS programs). Most students pursuing this path major in Biology – Pre-Professional Concentration, but other majors are also possible. Please remember to reach out to the OneHealth Pre-Professional Program Coordinator at prehealth@fgcu.edu for the most personalized support.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

  1. General Biology 1 with Lab (BSC 1010C)
  2. General Biology 2 (BSC 1011) and General Biology 2 Lab (BSC 1011L)
  3. General Chemistry 1 (CHM 1045)
  4. General Chemistry 1 Lab (CHW 1045L)
  5. General Chemistry 2 (CHM 1046)
  6. General Chemistry 2 Lab (CHW 1046L)
  1. Organic Chemistry 1 (CHM 2210)
  2. Organic Chemistry 1 Lab (CHM 2210L)
  3. Organic Chemistry 2 (CHM 2211)
  4. Organic Chemistry 2 Lab (CHM 2211L)
  5. Calculus 1 (MAC 2311)
  1. Biochemistry (BCH 3023C)
  2. College Physics 1 (PHY 2053)
  3. College Physics 1 (PHY 2053L)
  4. College Physics 1 (PHY 2054)
  5. College Physics 1 (PHY 2054L)
  1. Calculus 1 (MAC 2311) or Statistical Methods (STA 2023)
  2. General Psychology (PSY 2012)
  3. Human Anatomy (ZOO 3733C)
  4. Human Physiology (PCB 3703C)
  5. Genetics (PCB 3063C)
  6. Cell Biology (PCB 3023C)
  7. Drawing I (ART 1300)

BEYOND CLASSROOM

Dental Shadowing

  • Shadow a variety of dentists (general, pediatric, orthodontic, etc.).

  • Most dental schools expect at least 100 hours of shadowing across multiple settings.

Clinical Experience & Volunteering

  • Volunteer in dental clinics, public health offices, or community outreach events related to oral health.

  • Some dental schools value hands-on experience in a healthcare environment, even if not dentistry-specific.

Undergraduate Research

  • Participate in research relevant to science or health (even if not directly dental-related).

  • Consider pursuing a faculty-mentored research project through BSC 4910C (Senior Project – Research) or BSC 4944C (Internship).

Leadership & Student Involvement

  • Join FGCU’s Pre-Dental or Pre-Health student organizations.

  • Seek leadership roles in clubs, volunteer groups, or campus initiatives to show commitment and initiative.

Seminars & Advising Resources

Enroll in Seminar in Medicine I & II (BSC 1930L and BSC 2930L) which cover:

  • Personal statement writing

  • Interview preparation

  • Selecting references

  • Meeting dental school representatives

Prepare for the DAT

  • Plan ahead for the Dental Admission Test (DAT) — many students take it junior year.

  • Use study resources and ask your advisor about timing and prep strategies.