Illinois is home to several top-tier institutions that provide high-quality dental education. Whether you’re an Illinois resident or an international student seeking a career in dentistry, this guide breaks down the essential information about each dental school in the state — from program offerings to clinical training, admissions processes, and unique advantages. If you’re planning to apply, this detailed overview will help you make an informed decision.
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) College of Dentistry
Located in the heart of Chicago, the UIC College of Dentistry is one of the most well-regarded dental institutions in the Midwest. The school offers a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program along with advanced postgraduate training in fields such as endodontics, periodontics, pediatric dentistry, prosthodontics, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. UIC’s approach to dental education integrates clinical skills, biomedical science, and ethical practice in a patient-centered environment. Students gain substantial experience through UIC’s busy dental clinics, which serve a diverse patient population throughout Chicago. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based decision-making and encourages interdisciplinary collaboration with the medical and pharmacy schools. UIC also offers dual degree opportunities such as a DMD/PhD for students interested in research or academia.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Chicago, IL |
| Program | Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) |
| Average DAT | 20.5–21.5 |
| Average GPA | 3.5–3.7 |
| Tuition | ~$47,000 (in-state), ~$98,000 (out-of-state) |
Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine–Illinois
Midwestern University, located in Downers Grove, offers a DMD program known for its emphasis on technology, clinical excellence, and holistic care. Students are immersed in a modern, student-centered learning environment, with access to cutting-edge simulation laboratories and clinical training facilities. Midwestern’s dental program integrates foundational science with early clinical exposure, beginning in the second year. Students work in teams and collaborate with peers from other health disciplines such as pharmacy, optometry, and physical therapy, building essential interprofessional communication skills. The program stresses professionalism, critical thinking, and patient-centered care. Midwestern also encourages community outreach, allowing students to serve underserved populations and gain real-world experience.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Downers Grove, IL |
| Program | Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) |
| Average DAT | 20.0–21.0 |
| Average GPA | 3.4–3.6 |
| Tuition | ~$93,000 per year |
Southern Illinois University (SIU) School of Dental Medicine
Located in Alton, the SIU School of Dental Medicine offers an affordable, community-focused DMD program. Its mission is to improve oral health in the region and across rural Illinois through accessible education and service. SIU offers smaller class sizes and lower tuition compared to other schools, making it an attractive option for Illinois residents. The school features a multidisciplinary simulation laboratory and an advanced dental clinic where students treat patients under faculty supervision. SIU’s curriculum combines rigorous coursework with hands-on patient care, and students participate in outreach initiatives in areas like East St. Louis. Additionally, the school offers a combined BS/DMD program, allowing students to complete their undergraduate and professional degrees in a shorter time frame.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Alton, IL |
| Program | Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) |
| Average DAT | 19.5–20.5 |
| Average GPA | 3.3–3.6 |
| Tuition | ~$30,000 (in-state), ~$75,000 (out-of-state) |
Other Dental-Related Programs in Illinois
Beyond DMD programs, Illinois also hosts several accredited programs in dental hygiene, dental assisting, and dental laboratory technology. These programs are ideal for students interested in alternative oral health careers or looking for faster entry into the workforce.
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College of DuPage (Glen Ellyn) – Dental Hygiene AAS
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Malcolm X College (Chicago) – Dental Assisting and Dental Hygiene
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Parkland College (Champaign) – Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
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Southern Illinois University Carbondale – Dental Hygiene BS
Application Guidance for Dental Schools in Illinois
Students interested in applying to dental schools in Illinois should begin preparing as early as possible. This includes taking prerequisite science courses such as biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics. Strong performance in these courses, combined with a high GPA, is essential. Students should also prepare for the Dental Admission Test (DAT), which is a key component of the application. It’s recommended to start studying at least 6 months in advance.
In addition to academic performance, applicants should gain hands-on experience by shadowing dentists, volunteering in clinics, or working in dental offices. Strong letters of recommendation, particularly from science faculty or practicing dentists, can significantly strengthen your application. Your personal statement should reflect genuine interest in dentistry, personal growth, and an understanding of the profession. All applications are submitted through AADSAS, the centralized application service for dental schools.
Professional services like Dental School Personal Statement Editing and Dental School Application Review offered by Code Blue Essays can help refine your application and improve your chances of admission.
Career Outlook for Dentists in Illinois
Choosing to study dentistry in Illinois also offers strong career prospects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for dentists is projected to grow by about 4% nationwide through 2032. Illinois, with its diverse population and mix of urban and rural communities, offers a balanced job market for new dental graduates. Urban centers like Chicago and its surrounding suburbs tend to offer higher salaries, while rural areas provide critical opportunities for service and professional growth. Dentists in Illinois earn an average annual salary ranging from $130,000 to $190,000 depending on experience, specialty, and location. Graduates from Illinois dental schools often find placement in private practice, community health organizations, and academic settings.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financing dental education can be challenging, but Illinois schools offer a range of financial aid and scholarship opportunities. For instance, the University of Illinois at Chicago offers merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and fellowships for research students. Midwestern University provides institutional aid and allows students to apply for federal student loans, while SIU offers the Illinois Dental Student Grant Act, which supports students who agree to practice in underserved areas after graduation. Additionally, external scholarships such as the National Health Service Corps (NHSC) and the American Dental Association Foundation (ADAF) are popular among students aiming to reduce debt and give back to communities in need.
Life as a Dental Student in Illinois
Living in Illinois during your dental studies offers a well-rounded student experience. Chicago, as a major metropolitan city, provides rich cultural diversity, access to research hospitals, and networking opportunities. UIC students often engage in student-run clinics, dental associations, and city-wide outreach programs. Downers Grove, where Midwestern University is located, offers a more suburban lifestyle, ideal for those seeking a quiet and focused academic environment. Meanwhile, Alton, home to SIU, delivers a small-town experience with strong community ties and lower living expenses. Most dental schools also have vibrant student associations, such as the American Student Dental Association (ASDA), which organizes events, advocacy programs, and leadership training.
Research Opportunities and Facilities
For students interested in research, Illinois dental schools provide impressive opportunities. UIC is recognized for its research in craniofacial biology, biomaterials, and public health dentistry. It receives millions in NIH funding annually and allows students to participate in summer research programs. Midwestern University, while focused more on clinical practice, still offers access to research labs exploring regenerative medicine and dental implantology. SIU also has ongoing research initiatives in areas like caries prevention, oral microbiology, and rural oral health outcomes. Engaging in research not only strengthens your resume but also provides insights into academic dentistry and evidence-based practice.
Postgraduate Specialization Options
After completing a DMD program, many graduates choose to pursue specialization. Illinois is home to several accredited residency and postgraduate training programs. UIC offers residencies in oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, endodontics, and more. These competitive programs typically require top grades, a strong National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) performance, and excellent letters of recommendation. Midwestern and SIU graduates may also apply to residency programs across the U.S., with many staying within Illinois due to its dense healthcare network. Specializing allows dentists to focus on high-demand fields and command higher salaries, making it an appealing option for many students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the DAT score requirements for Illinois dental schools?
Most competitive applicants score between 20 and 22. A score above 21 improves your chances significantly.
Do Illinois dental schools accept international students?
Yes, particularly UIC, which accepts international applicants with WES-evaluated transcripts and English proficiency tests.
What is the most affordable dental school in Illinois?
SIU offers the lowest tuition for in-state residents and provides a community-focused curriculum.
Can I apply without a bachelor’s degree?
Yes, technically. You need 90 semester credit hours, but most successful applicants already hold a bachelor’s degree.
Conclusion: A Smart Investment for Future Dentists
Illinois remains a strong choice for dental education due to its blend of affordability, innovation, and clinical depth. Whether you prefer a research-intensive urban setting like UIC, a community-focused approach at SIU, or a tech-savvy environment at Midwestern, there’s a pathway for every aspiring dentist. With strong faculty, extensive clinical exposure, and opportunities for research and specialization, dental schools in Illinois are well-positioned to prepare students for success in a changing healthcare landscape.