DDS Program

Pursue Your Passion

Whether in the dental clinic, classroom, lab, or community our faculty, students, and alumni define the strengths and uniqueness of Iowa in everything that they do. Iowa D.D.S. training provides rich experiences to ensure our graduates possess the necessary skills and knowledge to become competent, independent dentists ready for practice.

Dental student providing peer to peer oral health care

Why Iowa?

At Iowa, we take a holistic approach to a student's development. We believe dentist are more than technicians and must develop skills in critical thinking, professionalism, health promotion, interpersonal skills, interprofessional practice and practice management to be successful.

Group Photo of First Year Dental Students Fall 2024

Educational Excellence

The University of Iowa College of Dentistry is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) of the American Dental Association. A graduate of a CODA-accredited dental school who has successfully completed required examinations may apply for a dental license in any U.S. state.

Students should confirm licensing requirements directly with the jurisdiction in which they are interested in licensure.

Professional Licensure Disclosure

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DDS Program Highlights

Early Clinical Experiences

Students begin clinical experiences in the D1 year and hone their clinical skill sets through an innovative clerkship and comprehensive care education model.

Rotational Curriculum

Our third-year curriculum consists of clerkships that offer experiences in 10 ADA dental specialties, each of which is incorporated into our dental curriculum and in advanced training programs.

Dental Student Research Program

The University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics has the most accomplished student research program in the country.

Student Organizations

15 different student organizations provide members opportunities to learn and grow leadership skills to help you during and after dental school.

170,000+ Patient Visits

As the only dental school in the State of Iowa and a nationally leading program in terms of clinical experience, the college plays a vital role in meeting the oral health needs of Iowans.

Dental Counseling and Wellness

Iowa has made student wellness a priority and has a variety of offerings to support students during their four years.

Mission, Values and Vision

The College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics envisions itself as a steward of the next generation of dental professionals. The College has outlined a strategic plan to lead the College into the future in more innovative ways.

Career Services

We've created a centralized career services center to assist dental students, residents, graduates/alumni, and dental professionals in finding meaningful employment.

Faculty to Student Ratio

1:3

Virtual Tour

Follow Abbi (D4), Anna (D3) and Nick (D2) as they lead a tour of the Iowa College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics.

Image of Iowa City's Pedestrian Mall looking east on Washington Street.

The Life You Want

Living in Iowa means experiencing more of everything you want: more natural beauty, more vibrant communities and more arts and culture. Plus, having more time and resources allows you to pursue your passions.