Top Dental Schools in Nova Scotia (NS): Your Guide to a Career in Oral Health
Nova Scotia offers top-tier dental education, training future dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants who are committed to improving oral health across communities. Whether you’re pursuing a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), dental hygiene diploma, or considering a career in dental assisting, Nova Scotia provides comprehensive options for students at every level.
This article outlines the top dental and oral health programs in Nova Scotia, helping students make informed decisions based on career goals, program offerings, and scholarship opportunities.
Top Dental Schools in Nova Scotia
Why Choose Dental Education in Nova Scotia?
Nova Scotia’s dental schools and training programs offer:
- World-class education backed by research and clinical excellence
- Access to modern dental clinics and labs
- Opportunities to serve diverse populations, including underserved communities
- Strong career prospects across Canada and beyond
- Affordable tuition and access to scholarships and bursaries
Dalhousie University – Faculty of Dentistry (Halifax)
Programs: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Bachelor of Dental Hygiene, Diploma in Dental Hygiene, Master of Periodontics, and Research Degrees
Dalhousie University is home to Atlantic Canada’s only Faculty of Dentistry and is internationally recognized for producing highly skilled oral health professionals. The DDS program combines classroom instruction, simulation labs, and clinical experience to prepare students for licensure and practice.
Dalhousie also offers a Diploma and Bachelor of Dental Hygiene for those seeking to become dental hygienists, as well as graduate programs in periodontics, prosthodontics, and oral health research.
Students learn at the Dalhousie Dental Clinic, serving thousands of patients annually, giving them real-world clinical experience.
Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) – School of Health & Human Services
Programs: Dental Assisting – Level II (Diploma)
Campus: Halifax (IT Campus)
NSCC offers a Dental Assisting Level II Diploma, accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC). This 1-year program trains students in chair-side assisting, radiography, sterilization, patient education, and more.
Graduates are eligible to write the National Dental Assisting Exam and enter the workforce quickly in private practices, specialty clinics, or public health.
The NSCC IT Campus in Halifax offers access to state-of-the-art labs and dental equipment, ensuring students are workplace-ready.
Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) – Applied Human Nutrition & Pre-Health Pathways
Relevant Program: BSc in Biology or Chemistry (Pre-Dental Track)
Location: Halifax
While MSVU does not offer a dental degree, it provides pre-dental pathways through its Bachelor of Science programs in Biology and Chemistry. These programs are ideal for students who plan to apply to Dalhousie’s DDS or dental hygiene programs.
Pre-dental students benefit from small class sizes, strong science foundations, and access to MCAT/DAT prep resources.
Saint Mary’s University (SMU) – Pre-Dental Sciences
Relevant Programs: BSc in Biology or Chemistry (Dental School Preparation)
Location: Halifax
SMU offers excellent pre-dental academic preparation through its BSc programs in Biology and Chemistry. Students benefit from a strong focus on lab work, access to faculty-led research, and a supportive pre-health community.
Graduates often go on to apply to Dalhousie’s DDS or Dental Hygiene programs, or pursue dentistry at other Canadian institutions.
Cape Breton University (CBU) – Pre-Professional Sciences
Relevant Programs: BSc in Biology or Chemistry (Pre-Dentistry Focus)
Location: Sydney, NS
CBU offers a Bachelor of Science with Pre-Dentistry pathways, providing students with a strong academic foundation in biological and chemical sciences. Students receive personalized academic advising and guidance for dental school applications.
CBU is ideal for students in Cape Breton or those seeking a smaller, more intimate campus environment while preparing for professional studies.
Acadia University – Pre-Health Professions Program
Relevant Programs: BSc in Biology, Chemistry with Pre-Dental Focus
Location: Wolfville, NS
Acadia offers a Pre-Health Professions advising stream that supports students interested in dentistry and other healthcare careers. Its science programs emphasize critical thinking, lab skills, and real-world applications, ideal for dental school preparation.
Students receive individualized support with course planning, DAT preparation, and applications to programs like Dalhousie Dentistry.
St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) – Faculty of Science
Relevant Programs: BSc in Biology or Chemistry (Pre-Dental Track)
Location: Antigonish, NS
StFX’s strong science programs make it a top choice for students pursuing pre-dental education. The university offers exceptional undergraduate research opportunities, lab work, and DAT preparation guidance.
Its interdisciplinary approach and academic reputation provide an excellent stepping stone to dental school.
Choosing the Right Dental Path in Nova Scotia
When planning a career in oral health, consider your goals:
| Career Goal | Recommended Path |
|---|---|
| Become a Dentist (DDS) | Dalhousie University – Faculty of Dentistry |
| Become a Dental Hygienist | Dalhousie University – Dental Hygiene Programs |
| Become a Dental Assistant | NSCC Dental Assisting Program |
| Pre-Dental Prep | BSc at MSVU, SMU, CBU, StFX, Acadia |
Key Considerations:
- Accreditation status and national exam eligibility
- Clinical placement opportunities
- Support for DAT (Dental Aptitude Test) prep
- Financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries
Start Your Dental Journey in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia offers exceptional education for aspiring dental professionals—from hands-on college diplomas to prestigious university degrees. Whether you’re aiming to become a dentist, hygienist, or dental assistant, you’ll find programs that support your ambitions and prepare you for meaningful, high-demand careers.
Begin exploring your options, apply for scholarships, and take the first step toward a future in oral healthcare.
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Graduating?
Ready to start your career?
Are you a new graduate looking for work?
How a New Grad Should Approach Recruiters to Start Their Job Search
Graduating is an exciting milestone, but entering the job market can feel overwhelming. One of the best ways to kickstart your job search is by working with recruiters. Recruiters have insider knowledge, access to hidden job opportunities, and connections with top employers. Here’s how you should approach them effectively:
1. Identify the Right Recruiters
Not all recruiters specialize in the same industries. Research and connect with recruiters who focus on your field. Websites like HeadhuntersDirectory.com can help you find the right professionals.
2. Craft a Strong Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Before reaching out, ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile highlight your education, internships, skills, and accomplishments. Recruiters need to see what makes you a strong candidate.
3. Reach Out with a Professional Message
When contacting recruiters via LinkedIn or email, be direct and professional. Here’s a sample message:
Hi [Recruiter’s Name],
I’m a recent [Your Degree] graduate from [Your University] with a strong interest in [Your Industry]. I’d love to connect and explore any opportunities that align with my skills. Looking forward to hearing your insights!
4. Be Clear About Your Goals
Recruiters work best when they understand what you’re looking for. Be specific about your preferred roles, industries, locations, and salary expectations.
5. Follow Up and Stay Engaged
If a recruiter doesn’t respond immediately, follow up after a week. Once you establish a connection, maintain regular communication without being overly persistent.
6. Be Open to Feedback and Opportunities
Recruiters may suggest jobs slightly outside your expectations. Stay open-minded and consider roles that can help build your experience.
7. Treat It Like a Professional Relationship
Even if a recruiter doesn’t place you in a job immediately, stay in touch. They might have the perfect opportunity in the future.
Final Thoughts
Working with recruiters can accelerate your job search, but your approach matters. Be proactive, professional, and open to opportunities.
Connect with local recruiters and headhunters to explore current job opportunities!
Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies in Canada.