Arizona has become an increasingly popular destination for aspiring dental professionals. Whether you’re seeking a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), dental hygiene, or dental assisting education, the state offers a range of accredited institutions that combine academic rigor with practical experience. In this guide, we explore the top dental schools in Arizona, providing essential information about their programs, tuition, acceptance rates, and what sets each school apart.
This article is designed to help students compare options, understand prerequisites, and prepare strong applications to increase their chances of success in this competitive field.
1. A.T. Still University – Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ASDOH)
Location: Mesa, AZ
Degree Offered: Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
Program Length: 4 years
Acceptance Rate: ~3.1%
Average GPA: 3.49
Average DAT Score: 19.1
Annual Cost: $101,872 (includes tuition, fees, housing)
ATSU-ASDOH was Arizona’s first dental school, established in 2003. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to dentistry, integrating public health into its curriculum. Students have opportunities to earn a Certificate in Public Health alongside their DMD degree. Clinical experiences begin early, with rotations in underserved communities, aligning with the school’s mission to serve populations in need.
2. Midwestern University – College of Dental Medicine-Arizona (CDMA)
Location: Glendale, AZ
Degree Offered: Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
Program Length: 4 years
Acceptance Rate: ~6.2%
Average GPA: 3.51
Average DAT Score: 19.6
Annual Cost: $101,872 (estimated)
Established in 2006, CDMA offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines basic sciences, preclinical oral health sciences, and patient-based clinical dentistry. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethics, and community service. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced simulation labs and fully equipped clinics, preparing them for diverse careers in dentistry.
3. Carrington College – Mesa
Program Offered: Dental Assisting Certificate
Location: Mesa, AZ
Program Length: 9 months
Accreditation: Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
Carrington College’s Dental Assisting program provides students with comprehensive training in patient care, office administration, and laboratory procedures. The curriculum includes an externship component, offering real-world experience in dental settings.
4. Mesa Community College – Dental Assisting & Pre-Dental Hygiene
Location: Mesa, AZ
Programs: Dental Assisting, Pre-Dental Hygiene
Cost: Affordable tuition for in-state residents
MCC offers a Dental Hygiene program that combines academic coursework with practical experience. Students gain hands-on training in modern dental facilities, preparing them for licensure and employment in various dental settings.
5. Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC)
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Programs Offered: Pre-Dental Hygiene, Dental Assisting
Program Length: Varies
Tuition: Low-cost for Arizona residents
PVCC provides foundational courses for students interested in pursuing careers in dental hygiene or assisting. The programs emphasize both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for further education or entry-level positions in the dental field.
6. Arizona College – Dental Assisting Program (Phoenix)
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Program: Dental Assisting Diploma
Length: 9 months
Tuition: Varies
Arizona College offers a Dental Assisting program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Students participate in an externship, gaining real-world experience in dental practices. The program is designed to prepare graduates for certification and immediate employment in the dental field.
7. Pima Medical Institute – Phoenix
Program: Dental Assisting
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Program Length: 9 months
Features: Career-focused training, flexible scheduling
Pima Medical Institute’s Dental Assisting program combines online coursework with in-person labs and externships. Students learn chairside assisting, radiography, and front-office skills, preparing them for entry-level positions in dental practices.
8. Northern Arizona University – Dental Hygiene Program
Location: Flagstaff, AZ
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
Program Length: 4 years
Accreditation: CODA
Tuition: Standard in-state rates + fees
NAU offers Arizona’s top dental hygiene bachelor’s program. Students learn in state-of-the-art simulation labs and serve diverse communities through clinics and public health initiatives. The school’s research component also sets it apart from 2-year hygiene programs.
Tips for Applying to a Dental School in Arizona
1. Focus on Academics
A GPA above 3.5 and a strong DAT score (20+) significantly boost your chances at schools like ASDOH and Midwestern. Community college programs may have different GPA requirements but still prioritize academic performance.
2. Gain Hands-On Experience
Shadowing a dentist or volunteering in a clinic shows real commitment to the field. It also gives you insight into daily practice and patient care.
3. Write a Strong Personal Statement
Your personal statement should reflect your dedication to dentistry and highlight unique experiences. If you want a polished and persuasive application, Dental School Personal Statement Editing from Code Blue Essays is a trusted choice among applicants.
4. Prepare for Interviews
Both ASDOH and CDMA conduct in-depth interviews. Mock interviews or professional Dental School Interview Preparation can make a big difference in your confidence and delivery.
5. Understand Tuition and Financial Aid
Most DMD programs cost over $100,000 per year. Look into scholarships, federal aid, and private loans early in the process to plan your finances.
FAQs About Dental Schools in Arizona
How many dental schools are in Arizona?
Arizona has two accredited DMD programs (ASDOH and Midwestern University) and several community colleges and private schools offering dental hygiene and assisting programs.
What DAT score is needed for ASDOH or Midwestern?
Both schools prefer DAT scores of 19–21, though higher scores increase competitiveness.
Is dental assisting a good career path in Arizona?
Yes. Dental assistants are in demand across Arizona, and certificate programs can be completed in less than a year.
Can I apply to Arizona dental schools as an international student?
Yes, but international students may need to meet additional requirements such as TOEFL scores, credential evaluation, and proof of funds.
Final Thoughts
Arizona offers a variety of high-quality dental programs suited for every stage of a dental career from DMD degrees to dental hygiene and assisting certifications. Whether you want to pursue general practice, specialize, or serve communities in public health, Arizona’s institutions provide the training and support to help you succeed.
To maximize your chances, consider working with professional editors and advisors. Services like Dental School Personal Statement Editing, Primary Application Review, and Interview Coaching from Code Blue Essays can make a lasting difference in your application journey.