The University of Utah School of Dentistry, established in 2012–2013 within the University of Utah Health system, was created to address Utah's significant dental workforce shortage — particularly in rural communities. It welcomed its inaugural DDS class of 20 students in August 2013 and graduated its first class in 2017; the cohort has since grown to roughly 50 students per year. The school benefits from the University of Utah's strong health sciences infrastructure and research capabilities.
What makes it different
Applications via ADEA AADSAS. University of Utah School of Dentistry is one of the newest dental schools in the US, established to fill Utah's dental workforce gap. Being part of the University of Utah Health system gives students access to a major academic medical center. The Mountain West setting provides rural training opportunities and a strong regional placement network.
Course & teaching
Integrated curriculum. 4-year DMD curriculum integrating biomedical sciences with clinical training. Early patient contact emphasis to address the school's workforce mission. Clinical training at University of Utah dental clinics and affiliated community health centers in Salt Lake City and rural Utah.
Research strengths
University of Utah School of Dentistry (DMD) has notable research strength in Oral health disparities, Dental workforce, Mountain West oral health, Oral-systemic links, Community oral health.
Interview
University of Utah School of Dentistry (DMD) interviews via Traditional and/or MMI-style interview. University of Utah School of Dentistry conducts structured interviews at its Salt Lake City campus, typically using a combination of traditional and MMI-style formats. The interview day includes one-on-one faculty sessions and structured scenario stations. Interviewers assess motivation for dentistry, commitment to Utah and Mountain West communities, manual dexterity, ethical reasoning, ADA professionalism, and oral-systemic health awareness. Interviewers are especially interested in candidates committed to addressing Utah's dental workforce shortage, particularly in rural Mountain West communities.
Intake
Approximately 50–70 students per year (newer program).
At a glance
Founded in 2013, based in Salt Lake City, UT. Programmes offered: General Dentistry, Community Dentistry, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Pediatric Dentistry, Prosthodontics.