Pre-Dental

Though SUU does not host a pre-dental major, we offer the support and guidance to ensure students interested in the dental field are well-positioned for acceptance into dental school. SUU students majoring in biology and chemistry have gained admission to top dental schools by completing the required dental pre-requisites while pursuing their undergraduate degree. College of Science academic advisors and pre-dental faculty advisors work closely with pre-dental students to chart the ideal academic program for their success.

POINTS of DISTINCTION

Students graduating with a biology or chemistry degree enjoy high placement rates in dental school. In 2009, 11 of 15 students who applied to dental school were accepted (73%); in 2008, 12 of 14 students enjoyed acceptance (86%).
We work closely with the Rural Health Scholars program on our campus, providing resume-building activities to ensure our graduates are competitive in the dental school admissions process.

POSSIBLE CAREERS

Professional careers in dentistry, various specialties and dental research

AVAILABLE RESOURCES

Pre-dental advising is done by academic advisors, faculty members and the Rural Health Scholars program, providing each student with a personalized plan for academic and professional success.

STUDENT INVOLVEMENT

Campus chapter of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA)
Opportunities for job shadowing, service learning and leadership training through Rural Health Scholars

CONTACT INFORMATION

Department Name: Biology & Physical Science
Department Contact: Rachel Smetanka (Biology) or J. Ty Redd (Physical Science)
Website: http://suu.edu/cose/biology/ or http://suu.edu/cose/physci/
Email Address: smetanka@suu.edu or redd@suu.edu
Department Phone: 435-586-7926 or 435-586-7904
Department Fax: 435-865-8605

Spotlight

Name: Dr. Rachel Smetanka

Graduated: B.A. 1996, Utah State University;
Ph.D. 2002, New Mexico State University

Current Job: Assistant professor of biology

"I came to SUU almost 5 years ago after teaching in a graduate professional health program at James Madison University in Virginia. After growing up in Montana, I was eager to return to the west and find a smaller, more undergraduate focused institution. I have found SUU to be extremely dedicated to both a broad and deep experience for our undergraduates. I believe that the students at SUU are very focused and dedicated to hard work and strong preparation for their post-baccalaureate endeavors. The faculty at SUU are excellent teachers, active scholars, amazing people, and I am proud to be part of the SUU community."

Learn More

Apply Now!

Majors & Programs of Study