What Do Dentists Major In? Your Guide to Pre-Dental Majors & Requirements

When you think about becoming a dentist, you might imagine a long list of science classes and piles of homework. But here’s something you might not know: there’s no required college major to become a dentist! That’s right—you can major in almost anything, as long as you take the classes dental schools want and build a solid application.

In this guide, you’ll learn about good majors for future dentists, which classes are most important, and what dental schools are really looking for. Whether you love science, writing, or art, you’ll get the steps you need to start your path in dentistry.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Why Your Major Isn’t Everything

Let’s bust a big myth: You do not need to major in biology, chemistry, or even science at all to become a dentist.

Problem: Lots of students—and parents—think you have to pick a certain major to get into dental school.

Agitate: This can lead to worry and confusion when planning your college courses, especially if you really like another subject.

Solution: Here’s the good news! Dental schools want to see certain classes—the right classes—not the exact name of your degree.

Dental schools want students who are smart, hard-working, and well-rounded. They look for folks who can handle tough science courses but also talk well with patients. This guide will show you all your options so you can make the right choice for you.

What Are the Most Popular Majors for Dentists?

Walk around any dental school, and you’ll meet students from all backgrounds. Still, most dental students choose one of these:

Biology (Biological Sciences): The Usual Choice

• Over half of dental school applicants pick biology or something close.
• It covers many required classes: cell biology, genetics, microbiology, anatomy, and physiology.
• Biology majors often get lots of lab and research experience that helps in dental school.

Chemistry and Biochemistry

• Chemistry shows how chemical changes happen inside people. That’s important for understanding medicines and dental materials.
• Biochemistry combines chemistry and biology to explain how small things inside your body work.
• These majors include general chemistry, organic chemistry, and biochemistry—all important for dental school.

Other Helpful Science Majors

• Neuroscience: Focuses on the brain and nerves—helpful for pain control and dental surgery.
• Biomedical Engineering: Mixes engineering, medicine, and biology to invent new dental tools and ideas.
• Public Health: Gives a wide look at health issues and gets you ready for community dental jobs.

Non-Science Majors Are Okay Too!

You might be surprised, but about 10–15% of dental studentsmajored in English, business, psychology, or sociology. These students bring strong writing, communication, and thinking skills. Dental schools like these talents just as much as science skills.

What Science Classes Do You Need for Dental School?

No matter what your major, dental schools want certain science classes. Here are the basics:

These classes give you the basics you need for dental school. They also prepare you for the Dental Admission Test (DAT), which is a big piece of your application.

Some schools also suggest:

• Anatomy, physiology, microbiology, genetics, immunology, psychology, and sociology.

Be sure to check all the class requirements for each dental school you want to apply to.

Can I Become a Dentist With a Non-Science Major?

Of course! Here’s how.

Let’s say you major in English because you really enjoy reading and writing. That’s great! As long as you finish all the science classes above, you’re as ready to apply to dental school as a biology major.

What’s the Trick?

• You need to finish all science classes—sometimes as extra classes, or in summer/winter.
• Some students do a post-baccalaureate pre-dental program if they need to catch up after they graduate.
• You still need good grades in both your major and your science classes.

Why Pick Something Besides Science?

• Strong writing and talking skills help you stand out.
• You have a different point of view for interviews and essays.
• You might connect better with patients because you know more about people, society, or feelings.

So if you like another subject, don’t give it up! Just plan well to make sure you take the right classes.

What Else Do Dental Schools Look For?

A good GPA and DAT matter, but that’s not everything. Dental schools look for well-rounded people who can do more than just study.

Here’s what helps:

Real-World Experience (Shadowing and Volunteering)

• Spend time in dental offices to see what dentists do. This is “shadowing.”
• Watch treatments, talk with patients, and see what the job is really like.
• Volunteer at clinics or health fairs to help and learn.

Research

If you like to figure things out or try new ideas, join a research project in school. This shows you can think, solve problems, and work with others.

Good with Your Hands

Dentistry is hands-on! Practice by playing an instrument, painting, making things, sewing, or building models. Some students try manual skills tests—like tying knots with one hand or building little objects.

Activities and Leadership

Join clubs or sports, or help lead a group. These show dental schools that you use your time well and care about others.

References

College teachers, dentists you shadowed, or your bosses can write letters about your skills and what you’re like.

Personal Statement

You’ll write an essay showing why you want to be a dentist. This is your time to shine and explain your reasons.

How Important is the DAT and GPA?

They’re both very important.

GPA (Grade Point Average)

• Most students who get accepted have an overall GPA of 3.5–3.7 and a science GPA of 3.4–3.6.
• A higher GPA helps, but it’s not everything.

DAT (Dental Admission Test)

• The DAT tests you on biology, chemistry, math, reading, and your ability to imagine shapes in 3D.
• Most students try to score 20 or 21 out of 30 to be in a good spot.
• Practice really helps. Many students take prep classes or study with friends.

What If My Scores Aren’t as High?

You can still get in, especially if you show strength in other ways—good shadowing, unique background, strong references, or great manual skills.

What Does the Road to DDS or DMD Look Like?

Becoming a dentist takes time, but it’s worth it!

Your Career Steps

Major in what you love, but finish all required classes.

You’ll earn either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD). Both mean the same thing.

Want to become an orthodontist, oral surgeon, or work with kids? That means 2–6 more years of extra training.

Some people might take a break or do a post-bacc pre-dental program if they change majors.

Want to learn more about new dental tools and tech? Check out our [digital dental lab], where new dentists learn for today’s world.

How Do I Choose the Best Major for Dental School?

Here are a few steps to help you decide:

Do you like science, or do you love writing, art, or business more?

Look at dental school requirements, then find majors that cover most of those classes.

A pre-dental advisor at your school can help you pick the best path.

The sooner you plan, the easier it is to fit in all the classes you need.

If you love your major, you’ll get better grades and enjoy school more.

Remember, there’s no “right” major—just the one that fits you.

What If I’m a Non-Traditional or Career-Change Student?

Maybe you picked your major years ago or started another job. You might ask, “Is it too late?”

Nope! Not at all.

How to Switch

• Take the science classes you missed—at your school, a local college, or in a post-bacc program.
• Shadow dentists or volunteer in clinics for real-world experience.
• Work hard on the DAT and make your application strong.
• Use your past job as a plus. If you worked in business, art, or health, show how those skills make you better for dentistry.

Many dentists started as teachers, artists, managers, or even engineers. Your road can be special too.

Does My Major Matter for Dental Specialties?

If you want to be an orthodontist, oral surgeon, or kids’ dentist one day—does your college major matter?

• No! Once you get into dental school, you’ll learn about all specialties through required and extra classes.
• Specialty programs (like for orthodontics or surgery) care mostly about how you do in dental school and if you really like that area.

Want to see what goes into making special dental parts? Take a look at our [removable denture lab] and see how dentists help bring back smiles.

FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered

Q: Can I get into dental school with a non-science major?

A: Yes. Just finish the science classes and do well on the DAT.

Q: Is there a major called “pre-dental”?

A: Not really. “Pre-dental” is a track, not a real major. You can study anything and follow the pre-dental path.

Q: DDS vs. DMD: What’s the difference?

A: Both are dental degrees. DDS means “Doctor of Dental Surgery,” DMD means “Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry.” They’re the same.

Q: What’s more important—my major or my grades?

A: Grades are more important. The name of your major isn’t a big deal as long as you take the right classes.

Q: What can help me stand out when applying?

A: Real-world experience, good communication skills, leadership, research, and true excitement for dentistry.

Key Takeaways: Remember These Points!

• No single major is required. Study what you like and do your best.
• Finish all key science classes. Biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, math, and English are needed.
• Be well-rounded. Show you can talk with people, lead, and use your hands by joining clubs, helping others, or doing research.
• Get good DAT and GPA scores. These help you get in.
• Use your own background as a plus. Whether you study science or art, your effort and readiness matter most.
• Ask for advice! Advisors and dentists can help you along the way.
• Dream big. Dentists come from all different majors and help people every day.

If you want to see more about what happens in dentistry, check out our [crown and bridge lab]. See how future and current dentists work together to make healthy, happy smiles.

Reviewed by Dr. Joe Dental, DDS. For more about getting into dentistry, visit the American Dental Education Association (ADEA).

References:

• American Dental Education Association (ADEA) Official Guide
• American Dental Association (ADA)
• Dr. Joe Dental, DDS, Pre-Dental Advisor
• [digital dental lab]
• [removable denture lab]
• [crown and bridge lab]

You don’t have to pick just one path. Make your own journey to dentistry as unique as you are. Good luck!