At the University of Kentucky, pre-professional paths are interest areas that students complete alongside their UK Core requirements and academic program of study. Pre-professional advisors offer support and guidance to University of Kentucky students, from all majors, interested in applying to dental school. In addition to outlining necessary coursework and guiding students through application processes, pre-professional advisors also direct students to University programs, such as UK Education Abroad or UK Service and Community Engagement, that foster well-rounded dental school applicants.
Students planning to pursue a dental school career path should meet routinely with their primary academic advisor and pre-professional advisors in the Stuckert Career Center. Individuals are encouraged to pursue baccalaureate studies that reflect their unique abilities and interests. However, it should be noted that a solid foundation in the biological and natural sciences will be a requirement for admission to most dental schools. Specific prerequisite coursework requirements will vary by program.
The following courses are generally required for most dental schools:
Students planning to pursue a dental school career path should meet routinely with their primary academic advisor and pre-professional advisors in the Stuckert Career Center. Students can schedule an appointment with a pre-professional advisor in the Stuckert Career Center through Handshake or by emailing UKCareerCenter@uky.edu.
The pre-dental pathway provides guidance for students preparing to apply to any dental school. While similar, its requirements may differ from those of the UK College of Dentistry. For specific details about the UK College of Dentistry program and application process, visit their official admissions page.
UK College of Dentistry
The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is the required dental school entrance exam and is administered by the American Dental Association. The DAT is administered throughout the year at local testing centers. It should be taken 18 months prior to the dental school class you plan to enter. (Ideally, take the DAT when you have finished the necessary coursework.) It is to your advantage to take it early—by April-June in the year you are submitting your application.
For DAT information and registration, visit https://www.ada.org/en/education-careers/dental-admission-test.
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients’ teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.
Median Salary
$170,910
per year in 2023
Number of Jobs
155,000
in 2023
10 Year Job Outlook
6,800
new jobs (average)
Some dentists have their own business and work alone or with a small staff. Other dentists have partners in their practice. Still others work as associate dentists for established dental practices.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Read MoreAt the University of Kentucky (UK), pre-professional programs are interest areas that students complete alongside their UK Core requirements and academic program of study. Successful dental school applicants come from a variety of majors and backgrounds with diverse interests and talents. While philosophies among the nation’s dental schools differ, all recognize the importance of a broad education with a strong foundation in the sciences blended with the social sciences and humanities. Students are encouraged to meet with their primary academic advisor and pre-professional advisors in the Stuckert Career Center to explore their options and to ensure required coursework is completed.
Pre-Professional
Stuckert Career Center
(859) 257-2746
