Top Dental Schools in Alaska (AK)

Building Bright Smiles and Bright Futures in the Last Frontier

A Growing Need for Dental Professionals in Alaska

Access to dental care is a growing concern in Alaska, especially in rural and Indigenous communities. With many areas experiencing dentist shortages, Alaska urgently needs skilled dental professionals—general dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, and specialists—who are committed to serving local populations. If you’re interested in dentistry, now is an excellent time to begin your journey.

Although Alaska does not have a standalone dental school awarding DDS or DMD degrees, several top institutions offer strong pre-dental pathways, dental hygiene programs, and strategic partnerships with out-of-state dental schools. These programs are excellent launching pads for dental careers.

Let’s explore the top institutions in Alaska that support future dental professionals.

Top Dental Schools in Alaska

University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) – Pre-Dental Advising

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UAA offers one of the strongest Pre-Dental advising tracks in the state. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with coursework that fulfills dental school prerequisites, including general biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and anatomy.

Why Choose UAA for Pre-Dental?

Comprehensive pre-health advising
Small class sizes and faculty mentoring
Strong foundation in sciences
Access to clinical observation and dental volunteering opportunities

UAA is also actively involved in promoting health careers through outreach and partnerships with local providers, helping students strengthen their dental school applications.

University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) – Biomedical and Pre-Health Programs

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At UAF, students interested in dentistry can follow a Pre-Dental track through the Biomedical Science or Biological Sciences degree programs. UAF offers rigorous training in biochemistry, physiology, genetics, and more—all aligned with dental school prerequisites.

UAF Advantages:

State-of-the-art science labs and research opportunities
Pre-dental clubs and faculty support
INBRE-supported undergraduate research
MCAT/DAT prep and dental school application assistance

UAF students often go on to dental schools across the U.S., especially through the WICHE program (Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education), which helps Alaska residents secure spots and tuition discounts at out-of-state schools.

Alaska Pacific University (APU) – Pre-Health Sciences

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Alaska Pacific University provides a personalized Health Sciences program with a strong focus on cultural awareness, community engagement, and scientific foundations that support future careers in dentistry and public health.

Program Features:

Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences
Pre-dental and pre-health course advising
Opportunities for service learning and shadowing
Emphasis on rural and Indigenous healthcare

APU’s small class sizes and dedicated faculty make it a good option for students who value individualized academic support.

UAA School of Allied Health – Dental Hygiene Program

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If you’re interested in becoming a dental hygienist, UAA offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, one of the most comprehensive programs in the state. While not a pathway to become a DDS/DMD, it is a valuable and in-demand healthcare career with great earning potential.

Program Highlights:

State-of-the-art clinical training facility in Anchorage
Real-world patient experience
Focus on preventive oral healthcare and community education
National Board Dental Hygiene Exam (NBDHE) preparation

Graduates of UAA’s Dental Hygiene program are well-prepared for immediate employment or further education.

Ilisagvik College – Allied Health Foundations

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Ilisagvik College offers general science and health courses that support students interested in dental careers. Students can begin their studies here before transferring to UAA, UAF, or out-of-state dental schools.

Academic Options Include:

Health Science Certificate Programs
General biology, chemistry, and anatomy courses
Career counseling for health professions
Culturally responsive education model

Ilisagvik College plays an essential role in introducing rural and Indigenous students to healthcare pathways, including dentistry.

Charter College – Dental Assisting Program (Anchorage Campus)

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Charter College offers a fast-paced Dental Assisting Certificate that prepares students to work directly alongside dentists in clinics and practices.

Program Features:

Training in chairside assisting, radiography, infection control
Hands-on clinical practice
Can be completed in under 10 months
Externship opportunities in Alaska dental offices

This is a great program for students seeking a quicker route into the dental workforce, with the option to pursue further education later.

WICHE Program for Alaska Dental Students

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Alaska participates in the WICHE Professional Student Exchange Program (PSEP), which helps students attend out-of-state dental schools by subsidizing tuition costs. Alaska students can apply to participating schools in states like Oregon, Arizona, Colorado, and California with reduced rates.

This is a vital resource for anyone in Alaska seeking to earn a DDS or DMD.

Preparing for Dental School: Tips for Alaska Students

If you want to become a dentist, your educational path typically includes:

Earning a bachelor’s degree with pre-dental coursework (biology, chemistry, physics)
Taking the Dental Admission Test (DAT)
Gaining shadowing or assisting experience in dental clinics
Applying to out-of-state dental schools through ADEA AADSAS
Considering WICHE to reduce costs

Scholarships and Financial Aid Resources

Pursuing a career in dentistry is a major investment, but there are financial aid programs to help you achieve your goals:

Starting Your Dental Career in Alaska

While Alaska may not have a full DDS or DMD program in-state yet, students have access to powerful pre-dental, dental hygiene, and dental assisting programs to build a solid career in oral health. Through partnerships, financial aid, and regional support programs like WICHE, your dream of becoming a dentist is entirely achievable—even from the remote reaches of Alaska.

Start your journey today, and be a part of improving the smiles and health of Alaskans for generations to come.

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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 a local recruiting firm today to explore opportunities!

Are you a new graduate looking for work? Headhunters Directory is an online directory of headhunters, recruiters, and employment agencies in the USA.

Connect with the top Alaska recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.