Top Dental Schools in Minnesota: A Guide to the Best Colleges and Universities for Dental Education
Why Pursue a Dental Education in Minnesota?
Minnesota is home to excellent dental schools, ranging from top-tier universities offering Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degrees to colleges providing dental hygiene and dental assisting programs. The state has a strong demand for dental professionals, and its schools offer cutting-edge training, clinical experiences, and research opportunities.
This guide highlights the top dental schools and programs in Minnesota to help you choose the right path for your career in dentistry.
Top Dental Schools in Minnesota
Best Dental Schools in Minnesota
University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
Location: Minneapolis, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry is the only dental school in the state that offers a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. It is nationally recognized for its research, clinical training, and state-of-the-art facilities.
Dental Programs Offered:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD)
- Master’s and PhD in Oral Biology
- Dental Therapy (BSDH/MDT)
- Specialty training in Orthodontics, Periodontics, Endodontics, Prosthodontics, and Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
The school has strong clinical partnerships with hospitals and dental clinics across Minnesota, ensuring students receive hands-on experience in real-world settings.
Minnesota State University, Mankato – Dental Hygiene Program
Location: Mankato, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Minnesota State University, Mankato offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene, providing students with extensive clinical training and exposure to patient care.
Dental Programs Offered:
- Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene
- Pre-Dental Advising for students preparing for dental school
The program includes hands-on training in preventive and therapeutic oral health care, preparing graduates to work in dental offices, hospitals, and public health settings.
St. Cloud Technical & Community College – Dental Hygiene & Dental Assisting
Location: St. Cloud, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
St. Cloud Technical & Community College (SCTCC) offers accredited dental hygiene and dental assisting programs, making it a great option for students looking for career-focused training.
Dental Programs Offered:
- Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene
- Diploma in Dental Assisting
Both programs emphasize clinical experience, and students receive hands-on training in SCTCC’s state-of-the-art dental clinic.
Normandale Community College – Dental Hygiene Program
Location: Bloomington, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Normandale Community College has one of the most respected Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene programs in the state.
Dental Programs Offered:
- Associate of Science (AS) in Dental Hygiene
- Pre-Dental Transfer Pathway
Students gain clinical experience at Normandale’s on-campus dental clinic and through externships in the Twin Cities area.
Hennepin Technical College – Dental Assistant Program
Location: Brooklyn Park, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Hennepin Technical College offers an accredited Dental Assisting diploma program, preparing students for certification and licensure.
Dental Programs Offered:
- Dental Assisting Diploma (1-year program)
The program includes laboratory and clinical experience, training students in chairside assisting, dental radiography, and office management.
Rochester Community and Technical College – Dental Assistant Program
Location: Rochester, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
RCTC offers an Associate Degree and Diploma in Dental Assisting, preparing students for careers in private practices, hospitals, and specialty dental clinics.
Dental Programs Offered:
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Dental Assisting
- Diploma in Dental Assisting
Graduates are eligible for certification exams and have high job placement rates in Minnesota’s dental industry.
Century College – Dental Assisting Program
Location: White Bear Lake, MN
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Century College offers an excellent dental assisting program with both certificate and associate degree options.
Dental Programs Offered:
- Diploma in Dental Assisting
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Dental Assisting
The program is CODA-accredited and includes externships at dental offices and clinics throughout the Twin Cities region.
Herzing University – Online Dental Hygiene & Assisting Programs
Location: Minneapolis, MN (Online & Hybrid)
Website | Scholarships & Financial Aid
Herzing University offers flexible online and hybrid dental programs designed for working students and career changers.
Dental Programs Offered:
- Online Bachelor’s in Dental Hygiene (for licensed hygienists)
- Diploma in Dental Assisting
Herzing’s programs focus on professional advancement, helping dental professionals expand their skills while continuing to work.
Choosing the Right Dental School in Minnesota
Whether you’re looking to become a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant, Minnesota offers excellent programs to launch your career. Consider factors such as program length, clinical experience opportunities, accreditation, and tuition costs when selecting a school.
Best Options by Career Path:
- Aspiring Dentists (DDS Degree) → University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
- Aspiring Dental Hygienists → Minnesota State University Mankato, Normandale Community College, St. Cloud Technical & Community College
- Aspiring Dental Assistants → Hennepin Technical College, Rochester Community and Technical College, Century College
No matter which path you choose, Minnesota’s top dental schools provide the education and hands-on experience needed for a successful career in the dental field.
Graduating?
Ready to start your career?
Are you a new graduate looking for work?
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 Minnesota recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.