Pre-Health Programs

Pre-Dental Pathway

Prepare for success in
health field graduate programs

WCSU's Pre-Health Pathways

Pre-Dental Pathway

The following courses will satisfy the pre-requisites for most dental schools.  It is important for students to determine the specific requirements for each dental school they wish to apply to, in consultation with a pre-health advisor.

Other recommended and/or required courses:

Other requirements:

The DAT (dental admissions test) is required for all applicants to dental school.  The DAT covers concepts from general biology, chemistry, and organic chemistry, as well as perceptual ability, reading comprehension, and quantitative reasoning (mathematical problem solving.) Some schools may require the Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics (CASPer) test.

Activities such as scientific research, community service, shadowing (40-200 hours), and involvement in clubs are also expected.

Grades:
On average students with science GPA’s in the 3.3-3.5 range are generally considered competitive. 

Resources:

If you are considering applying to dental school, please consult this comprehensive guide that contains information about required coursework, entrance exams, experiential preparation, and a timeline for applying: Pre-Dental Pathways.

Obtaining a Committee Letter:

Many dental schools accept a committee letter and some may even recommend or require it. A committee letter is crafted by the pre-health committee currently comprised of Dr. Joshua Cordeira (Biology), Dr. Kristin Giamanco (Biology), Dr. Helena Prieto (Chemistry), Dr. Russ Selzer (Chemistry), and Dr. Emily Stevens (Health Promotion and Exercise). To procure a committee letter, you must submit a request form to Dr. Kristin Giamanco by May 1st. You will supply the pre-health evaluation form to each person writing you a letter of recommendation, which must be received by May 15th. In addition, you must send your resume/CV, a copy of your test scores, transcripts, and personal statement. All materials must be sent to Dr. Kristin Giamanco. For the committee to consider writing you a letter, you must meet with your designated pre-health advisor AT LEAST TWICE the year BEFORE you apply. If you do not adhere to this, the committee may decline your request.

 

Location & Office Hours

You can find us at room SB163 in the Science Building!

Spring Office Hours:

Dr. GiamancoTh1-3 PMSB 163
Dr. PrietoT/Th3-4 PMSB 163
Dr. StevensM2-3:30 PMWH 107A

Stay Informed

Have Questions?

Read through our Frequently Asked Questions.

Want to learn more?

Would you like to receive additional information? To speak with a pre-health advisor please follow the link below.

Apply Online

You can apply to Western Connecticut State University via the CommonApp or using our online application for admission.