VCU School of Dentistry is the only dental school in Virginia and features a diverse and inclusive academic and clinical environment. Our Doctor of Dental Surgery curriculum emphasizes study in biomedical sciences, clinical sciences and behavioral sciences. We place our focus on clinical excellence and incorporate the latest in digital dentistry technologies to ensure our graduates enter their careers fully prepared.
The curriculum in the dental school is organized into a competency-based four-year program leading to the Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. The academic year begins in July and extends through June. The program emphasizes study in three broad areas: biomedical sciences, clinical sciences and behavioral sciences.
- The biomedical sciences include the in-depth study of human anatomy, genetics, material science, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology and physiology.
- The clinical sciences prepare the student for the actual practice of dentistry and provide exposure to the various specialties in dentistry.
- The behavioral sciences cover such topics as dental health needs, the system of health care delivery, practice management, professional ethics and behavioral factors.
Laboratory and clinical experiences are offered throughout the four years of study to develop the skills and judgment vital to the practice of general dentistry.
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In general, courses offered as part of the curriculum in dentistry are not available to other students in the university. Exceptions may be granted by the dean of the School of Dentistry to students enrolled in graduate degree programs upon written request of the department chair in which the student is seeking a degree.
Please visit VCU Bulletins for complete information on the D.D.S. curriculum.
Contact Information
Virginia Commonwealth University
School of Dentistry
Office of Admissions
520 North 12th Street, Suite 309
Richmond, Virginia 23298-0566
Phone: (804) 828-9196
Email: denadmit@vcu.edu
Facts and rankings
Rankings and awards don’t define Virginia Commonwealth University, but they do illuminate our status as one of the nation’s premier urban, public research universities. The evidence is in our leading medical center, top arts school and nationally ranked graduate programs.
Our pass rates on clinical boards often surpass 95%, and more than 90% of our DDS students who apply to advanced education programs are accepted.