Top Dental Schools in Washington, DC
Discover the Capital’s Leading Pathways to a Career in Dentistry
Why Pursue Dental Education in Washington, DC?
Washington, DC is a dynamic and diverse city, ideal for students seeking a vibrant environment for higher education—especially in healthcare and dental fields. While DC itself has limited standalone dental schools, it hosts top-tier universities with strong pre-dental programs, advanced health science departments, and partnerships with nearby dental institutions.
DC students benefit from unparalleled access to public health agencies, research institutions, and clinical training facilities. Whether you’re preparing for dental school or looking for advanced programs in oral health, the capital region offers a wide range of educational opportunities and support services to help you succeed in the dental profession.
Howard University College of Dentistry
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Howard University College of Dentistry is the only dental school in Washington, DC—and one of the oldest in the country. Established in 1881, it is a historic leader in dental education, research, and service, with a mission to train dental professionals who are committed to excellence and equity in oral healthcare.
Highlights:
- Offers DDS, dental hygiene, and advanced dental education programs
- Known for producing a high number of African American dentists in the U.S.
- Hands-on clinical training in the Howard University Dental Clinic
- Emphasis on serving underserved and diverse communities
- Faculty expertise in periodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, prosthodontics, and pediatric dentistry
Howard’s reputation, strong alumni network, and community-focused approach make it an outstanding choice for those seeking a rewarding dental career with impact.
George Washington University – Pre-Dental Advising Program
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While GWU does not have a dental school, it provides robust pre-dental academic advising for students planning to apply to dental programs. The university’s location in the heart of DC provides access to internships, volunteer opportunities, and research relevant to oral health and medicine.
Highlights:
- Pre-dental academic track with personalized advising
- Opportunities to volunteer at local clinics and dental outreach programs
- Support for Dental Admission Test (DAT) preparation
- Internships with healthcare policy institutions, nonprofits, and federal agencies
- Ideal undergraduate foundation for dental school applications
GWU’s Pre-Dental Program equips students with the tools they need to gain admission to top dental schools nationwide.
American University – Pre-Dental Program
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American University offers a strong liberal arts education combined with a competitive pre-health track. Pre-dental students can major in biology, chemistry, or other related fields while participating in the pre-dental advising program designed to guide them toward dental school.
Highlights:
- Personalized advising and pre-dental club support
- Opportunities for local shadowing, community service, and research
- Strong record of graduates entering dental schools across the country
- Flexibility to combine dental preparation with interdisciplinary majors
- Guidance for completing dental school prerequisites and preparing applications
AU provides students with a well-rounded academic experience in a city filled with healthcare-related opportunities.
Trinity Washington University – Pre-Dental Pathways
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Trinity Washington University, a women’s university serving primarily women of color, offers a biology major and pre-health advising that supports pre-dental students. The school promotes personalized attention and community engagement.
Highlights:
- Small class sizes with faculty mentorship
- Emphasis on preparing underrepresented students for health professions
- Internship and shadowing opportunities across the DC area
- Focus on developing a strong foundation in the sciences
- Prepares students to succeed in DAT and dental school applications
Trinity fosters an inclusive learning environment and equips students for careers in healthcare, including dentistry.
University of the District of Columbia (UDC) – Allied Health & Sciences
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While UDC does not offer a dental degree, its Community College division offers programs in allied health, including dental assisting and dental hygiene in partnership with regional institutions. These programs prepare students for entry-level dental careers or serve as stepping stones to advanced degrees.
Highlights:
- Affordable pathways into the dental field
- Practical dental assisting and hygiene training
- Transfer options to dental hygiene or DDS programs
- Serves local communities with accessible and hands-on education
- Partnership with local clinics and public health programs
UDC is a solid choice for students seeking an accessible, skills-based entry into dentistry or dental support careers.
Nearby Options in the DC Metro Area
If you’re seeking a DDS or DMD program and are open to nearby locations, several outstanding dental schools are just a short distance from DC:
University of Maryland School of Dentistry (Baltimore, MD)
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As the first dental school in the world, the University of Maryland offers a prestigious program just one hour from DC. It features a modern curriculum, diverse specialties, and a reputation for research and clinical excellence.
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry (Richmond, VA)
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Located about two hours from DC, VCU’s School of Dentistry offers comprehensive DDS and advanced dental education programs, with strong ties to public service and community outreach.
University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine (Philadelphia, PA)
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Though farther from DC, Penn Dental is one of the top dental schools in the U.S., and many DC-based students apply due to its academic prestige and research opportunities.
Pave Your Path Toward a Career in Dentistry
The journey to becoming a dentist starts with choosing the right educational environment. Whether you’re ready to begin your DDS degree or just starting your undergraduate studies, Washington, DC offers a rich landscape of academic programs, professional resources, and public health opportunities.
Howard University stands out as DC’s flagship dental institution, while schools like GWU, AU, and UDC offer strong pre-dental and allied health pathways. Coupled with nearby top-tier dental schools and a strong public health ecosystem, DC is a strategic launchpad for a successful and impactful dental career.
Let your passion for healthcare and service take root in the nation’s capital—and let these schools support you on the path to becoming a leader in oral health.
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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 / headhunting 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 Washington DC recruiters and headhunters when you are in active job search mode.