Pre-Dentistry | Pre-Health Professions | SIU

Smile! Students aiming for a career in dentistry will find a bright future at SIU. This field remains in demand with the increasing understanding that oral health is an important component of overall health and wellness. Dentists help patients maintain oral health by evaluating, diagnosing and treating disease, disorders and conditions of the oral cavity. They engage in non-surgical and surgical repair and restoration of the teeth. There are a number of dental specialties including endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, and oral and maxillofacial pathology, radiology, and surgery. The SIU pre-dental curriculum ensures that SIU graduates are prepared for direct entry into dental programs.  

Pre-dentistry is not a major at SIU.  As a pre-dental student, you are indicating your intention to apply to dental schools. Students will need to select a major in which to earn a degree at SIU. The most popular majors are Biological Science, Biochemistry, and Physiology. Pre-dental students have also selected Microbiology, Psychology, and Public Health. Double majors are also an option. 

Approximately 80% of all dentists practice general dentistry and many are small business owners. We encourage students to take a few business classes to supplement their science-based curriculum. Future dentists are also encouraged to take up a hobby that develops artistic ability and increases manual dexterity as these are important parts of a dental career. 

View SIU's Pre-Dental Curriculum