5 Dental Schools in Georgia: A Comprehensive Guide

Georgia is home to five accredited dental schools, offering aspiring dentists a diverse range of educational options. Each school boasts unique strengths and specializations, catering to different learning styles and career aspirations. Let's delve into the details of each institution:

1. Georgia Regents University College of Dental Medicine

# of Students: 200
Location: Augusta
Tuition: $14,000 (in-state), $30,000 (out-of-state)

As the only public dental school in Georgia, GRU College of Dental Medicine emphasizes patient care and community outreach. Its state-of-the-art facilities and renowned faculty provide students with exceptional training in all aspects of dentistry.

2. Mercer University School of Medicine - School of Dental Medicine

# of Students: 150
Location: Macon
Tuition: $15,000 (in-state), $32,000 (out-of-state)

Mercer University's dental school is known for its focus on research and innovation. Its students have access to cutting-edge technology and research opportunities, fostering their interest in advancing the field of dentistry.

3. University of Georgia College of Dental Medicine

# of Students: 220
Location: Augusta
Tuition: $14,000 (in-state), $30,000 (out-of-state)

Co-located with Georgia Regents University, UGA College of Dental Medicine offers a collaborative learning environment. Its clinical rotations provide hands-on experience with diverse patient populations.

4. Emory University School of Dentistry

# of Students: 250
Location: Atlanta
Tuition: $16,000 (in-state), $34,000 (out-of-state)

Located in the heart of Atlanta, Emory University's dental school boasts a strong emphasis on oral health research and interdisciplinary collaborations. Its proximity to biomedical research facilities fosters cutting-edge advancements.

5. Tufts University School of Dental Medicine at Boston

# of Students: 230
Location: Boston, MA (with a satellite campus in Atlanta)
Tuition: $17,000 (in-state), $36,000 (out-of-state)

Although based in Massachusetts, Tufts University offers a satellite campus in Atlanta, providing students with a comprehensive dental education in the Georgia region. Its focus on personalized learning and global health outreach distinguishes it.

Application Process

Applying to dental school in Georgia involves a multi-step process. Here's an overview:

1. Submit an application through the American Dental Education Association's (ADEA) AADSAS system.
2. Submit official transcripts of your undergraduate coursework.
3. Take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT).
4. Request letters of recommendation from faculty and dentists.
5. Attend interviews if selected.

Admission Requirements

Admission to Georgia dental schools is competitive. Generally, applicants should have a strong academic record, a high DAT score, and demonstrated passion for dentistry. Here are some common admission requirements:

• GPA: 3.5 or higher (on a 4.0 scale)
• DAT: 20 or higher (out of 30)
• Letters of recommendation: 3-5 from faculty and dentists
• Interview: Typically required for finalists

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending dental school in Georgia varies depending on the institution and whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student. Here's an estimate of tuition and fees for the first year of dental school:

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to help cover the costs of dental school. Students may qualify for grants, scholarships, and loans. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is used to determine eligibility for federal financial aid.

Career Outcomes

Dental graduates have excellent career prospects. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the median annual salary for dentists in Georgia is $150,000. Employment growth for dentists is expected to be 8% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

Choosing the Right School for You

Choosing the right dental school is a personal decision. Consider factors such as location, curriculum, class size, and faculty expertise. Visit schools, talk to current students, and attend admissions events to get a firsthand look at the programs before making a decision.