Michigan offers excellent options for students aiming to build a future in dentistry. From prestigious DDS programs at major universities to specialized dental hygiene and assisting training at community colleges, Michigan covers a wide spectrum of dental education. Whether you are seeking a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, a dental hygiene license, or training as a dental assistant, this guide on dental school in Michigan will walk you through top institutions, their programs, admissions details, costs, and career opportunities.
Choosing the right school is critical. With guidance and strategic preparation, you can take confident steps toward a successful dental career. Here’s everything you need to know.
Top Dental School in Michigan
University of Michigan School of Dentistry (Ann Arbor)
The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is one of the oldest and highest-ranked dental schools in the United States. Established in 1875, it consistently ranks among the top dental programs globally. The school offers a four-year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) program that combines biomedical science foundations with extensive clinical practice. Admissions are highly competitive; most admitted students have GPAs above 3.6, strong DAT scores, significant shadowing experience, and strong letters of recommendation. Michigan’s emphasis on research, innovation, and community service makes it ideal for students who aspire to become leaders in dentistry.
Facilities at U-M are state-of-the-art, including simulation clinics, digital dentistry labs, and a full-service dental hospital. Students treat real patients from the surrounding communities under faculty supervision from their second year onward. Unique tracks such as the “Pathways Program” allow students to focus on fields like public health, clinical research, and healthcare delivery innovation. U-M’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion reflects in its admissions policies and student organizations. Graduating from this dental school in Michigan means joining a global network of accomplished dental professionals.
University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry (Detroit)
The University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry provides another outstanding DDS program option. As Michigan’s only private dental school, Detroit Mercy emphasizes patient-centered care, ethical practice, and community outreach. The four-year DDS curriculum integrates basic sciences with hands-on clinical experience early on. Students are introduced to simulation-based learning from the first semester, preparing them to interact with patients confidently in their second year.
Detroit Mercy boasts a modern Cork town campus with 190 clinical chairs, digital radiology, a full dental simulation lab, and specialty clinics. The school strongly promotes service-learning; students often volunteer at community dental events and underserved clinics throughout Detroit. Admissions require at least 90 undergraduate credits (bachelor’s degree preferred), competitive DAT scores, strong academics, shadowing hours, and excellent letters of recommendation. Detroit Mercy Dental graduates are known for their strong clinical competence and community-minded approach, making it a great choice among dental schools in Michigan.
Ferris State University – Dental Hygiene Program (Big Rapids)
Ferris State University offers a renowned Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and Bachelor of Science (BS) in Dental Hygiene. For students pursuing dental careers other than becoming dentists, Ferris provides outstanding preparation to become a Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH). The AAS degree is a two-year program, while the BS option extends to four years. Coursework includes dental radiology, periodontology, pharmacology, and local anesthesia techniques. Students complete rigorous clinical training in Ferris’s on-campus dental hygiene clinic.
Admissions into the dental hygiene program are competitive. Applicants must complete prerequisite coursework in anatomy, microbiology, chemistry, and communications, and maintain a solid GPA (generally 2.7 or higher). Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Dental Hygiene Board Examination and state licensing exams. Ferris hygienists enjoy high employment rates, with many finding positions in private dental practices, public health programs, and educational institutions across Michigan.
Oakland Community College – Dental Hygiene Program (Bloomfield Hills)
Oakland Community College (OCC) runs a highly respected Dental Hygiene Associate Degree program at its Highland Lakes campus (soon moving to a state-of-the-art facility). This two-year program focuses heavily on clinical experience, ensuring students are patient-ready upon graduation. OCC maintains small class sizes, allowing students to receive individualized instruction and mentorship from experienced faculty.
Students gain hands-on training in the on-campus dental clinic, providing preventive services like cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and X-rays to community members. Admission is selective, requiring strong prerequisite grades in sciences such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. The program includes service-learning activities and community outreach. OCC’s graduates boast high pass rates on licensure exams and enjoy excellent employment prospects throughout Metro Detroit and Michigan.
Grand Rapids Community College – Dental Assisting Program (Grand Rapids)
For students looking to enter the dental field quickly, Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) offers an excellent Dental Assisting Certificate and Associate Degree program. The certificate program can be completed in under a year, while the associate degree offers additional coursework in communications and office management, ideal for those seeking leadership roles.
GRCC’s Dental Assisting program includes coursework in chairside assisting, radiology, dental materials, sterilization, and dental office procedures. Students receive clinical experience both on campus and through externships at local dental offices. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams, including the CDA and RDA certifications. GRCC-trained dental assistants are highly valued for their skill level and versatility, working in general practices, specialty clinics, and hospital dental departments across Michigan.
University of Michigan Dental Hygiene Programs
In addition to its DDS program, the University of Michigan School of Dentistry also offers a prestigious Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. This three-year program is highly selective, accepting a small cohort each year. Students receive clinical training in U-M’s dental clinics and learn from faculty experts in periodontology, oral medicine, and dental public health.
Admission requires prerequisite courses, competitive grades, healthcare-related experiences, and sometimes interviews. Michigan’s dental hygiene graduates often pursue careers in clinical practice, education, research, and public health. Some go on to advanced degrees, including master’s programs in dental hygiene or public health.
Guidance for Applicants to Michigan Dental Programs
Applying to dental programs in Michigan, whether you’re pursuing a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), dental hygiene, or dental assisting requires careful preparation, strategic planning, and standout application materials. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you put your best foot forward:
1. Strong Academic Foundation
Admissions committees prioritize applicants with a solid academic background. Most dental programs require:
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Science-Intensive Coursework: Courses in biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, and physics are typically prerequisites.
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High GPA: A competitive GPA (especially in science courses) is crucial.
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DAT Scores: For DDS programs, a strong Dental Admission Test (DAT) score is essential. Aim to score above the national average to improve your chances.
Tip: Start preparing for the DAT early and consider a structured prep course if needed.
2. Relevant Experience Matters
Hands-on experience demonstrates your genuine interest in the field and helps strengthen your application.
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Shadowing Dentists: Spend time observing a variety of dental professionals in clinical settings.
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Volunteering: Community service, especially in healthcare-related environments, shows dedication and empathy.
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Clinical Exposure: For dental hygiene and assisting applicants, practical experience in dental offices can be a major advantage.
3. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your opportunity to tell your unique story. It should highlight:
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Your motivation to pursue a dental career
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Relevant personal and professional experiences
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Clear, future-oriented career goals
Pro Tip: Consider using Code Blue Essays Dental School Personal Statement Editing service to ensure your essay is compelling, professional, and polished.
4. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation
Choose references who know you well and can speak to your qualifications with enthusiasm. Ideal recommenders include:
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Science professors
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Dental professionals you’ve worked or volunteered with
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Employers or supervisors from relevant roles
Make sure to give your recommenders ample time and information to write detailed letters.
5. Develop Interview Skills
Many dental programs, especially DDS and selective dental hygiene schools, require interviews.
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Practice answering common and situational interview questions
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Learn to communicate confidently and clearly
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Demonstrate your passion for dentistry and your readiness for professional training
6. Thorough Application Review
Before submitting your application:
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DDS Applicants: Review your AADSAS (Associated American Dental Schools Application Service) thoroughly for accuracy and professionalism.
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Dental Hygiene/Assisting Applicants: Ensure local application portals and materials meet each program’s unique requirements.
Pro Tip: Consider a final review with Code Blue Essays’ Application Review Service to eliminate errors and maximize your application’s impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many dental schools in Michigan offer a DDS degree?
There are two DDS-granting schools in Michigan: the University of Michigan School of Dentistry and the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry. Both are accredited and highly respected.
Are there dental hygiene programs available in Michigan?
Yes! Schools like Ferris State University, Oakland Community College, and the University of Michigan offer accredited dental hygiene programs, preparing students to become Registered Dental Hygienists (RDH).
What is the typical tuition cost for dental school in Michigan?
DDS programs like U-M cost approximately $40,000–$70,000 per year (in-state), while dental hygiene or assisting programs at community colleges cost much less, around $4,000–$8,000 per year.
How competitive is dental school admission in Michigan?
Highly competitive! Successful applicants have strong GPAs (above 3.5), high DAT scores, extensive shadowing experience, and excellent personal statements and recommendations.
Conclusion
Michigan provides diverse and excellent options for dental education, whether you aim to become a dentist, a dental hygienist, or a dental assistant. Schools like the University of Michigan and Detroit Mercy offer top-tier DDS programs. Community colleges like Oakland Community College and Grand Rapids Community College offer accessible pathways into the profession through dental hygiene and assisting programs.
Choosing the right dental school in Michigan depends on your career goals, academic readiness, and financial planning. By preparing thoroughly — academically, clinically, and personally — and by using professional resources like Code Blue Essays for editing and application preparation, you can maximize your chances of admission to your dream program.
Your journey to a rewarding dental career starts with choosing the best school — and now, you’re well-equipped to make that decision confidently.