Predoctoral Program: Combined Degree Programs

• D.M.D. and Ph.D. Combined Degree Program
• B.A./B.S. and D.M.D. Combined Degree Program

D.M.D. and Ph.D. Combined Degree Program

The School sponsors a program leading to joint degrees of D.M.D. and Ph.D. It is designed for a small number of outstanding students who have clearly defined career goals of research and teaching in the general area of the medical sciences and who have the motivation and the ability to pursue a rigorous training program in this area. The program provides basic science and research training as well as the standard medical and dental curricula and is designed to produce individuals likely to make important contributions to the solution of problems of significance to the health sciences.

The overall program is administered by the Committee on Graduate Programs of the Health Center. The student applies and is admitted separately to the Graduate School and to the School of Dental Medicine, is enrolled simultaneously in the two appropriate schools, and is required to fulfill all of the requirements of both schools for both degrees. The student normally completes both programs, including the dissertation, in a period of approximately seven academic years, including summers. Other combined degree programs, including D.M.D./M.D. and D.M.D./M.P.H., are offered. Additional information is available from the Office of Dental Academic and Student Affairs.

B.A./B.S. and D.M.D. Combined Degree Program

Purpose

This prestigious program offers gifted and talented high school students who are focused on a career in dental medicine the opportunity to combine a broad-based liberal arts program with dental education at New England's top-ranked public university.

This program links undergraduate preparation with four years of dental education resulting in dual degrees: a B.A./B.S. and D.M.D.

Description

This highly selective admissions program is the only program of its kind offered by a public university in New England. The University of Connecticut and the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine have created an exciting opportunity for talented students to explore diverse undergraduate interests, while preparing for the professional school experience. Admission to this select program is limited. It is expected that the student would be accepted into the School of Dental Medicine if academic standards are maintained and all contingencies are met (see below).

All applicants are considered for participation in the Honors Program, which comes with unique benefits.

General Requirements

To apply, the student must be entering UConn as a first-semester freshman. Selected freshmen must have demonstrated exceptional performance in academics, including advanced preparation in mathematics and laboratory sciences, or other fields. Students must take either the SAT 1 exam or the ACT exam.

There are no state residency requirements, although Connecticut residents will receive special consideration. The University is always committed to attracting members of underrepresented populations for its programs.

Admission Requirements

To be considered for this prestigious program, the student should have:

• A high school class ranking in the top 10 percent.
• An overall high school grade point average of 3.5 (4.0 scale).
• An SAT 1 combined score of 1300 or an ACT composite score of 30.
• A completed regular undergraduate admission application and a supplemental application for the program in dentistry by the January 1st postmark deadline.
• An interview with the School of Dental Medicine.

In addition, recommendations from teachers, advisors, level of maturity, co-curricular activities and commitment to the health profession are considered. Course work should include advanced mathematics and laboratory sciences in high school.

Program Requirements

In order to officially matriculate into the School of Dental Medicine, the student must, at a minimum, meet the following criteria:

• Maintain a college 3.4 cumulative science grade point average (4.0 scale).
• Score a minimum of 19 on the DAT with no section score below 18.
• Complete course work in biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, and biochemistry.
• Demonstrate evidence of clinical (shadowing), research, and community service related activities.
• Maintain membership in the Pre-dental Society.
• Provide letters of support.
• Interview with the School of Dental Medicine Admissions Committee.

Curriculum

With undergraduate flexibility, students can select powerful combinations that will further their graduate effort, with curricular options in any of our 50+ majors. While working on a selected undergraduate program, the student will be linked with the School of Dental Medicine through special seminars and health-profession events, all aimed at supporting the achievement of career goals. This unique program of mentoring will further enrich the undergraduate experience by providing education opportunities, which will strengthen the student's preparation for professional school.

The University of Connecticut will confer the B.A. or B.S. upon completion of degree requirements. The University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine will confer the professional degree after all requirements are met. This program, designed as an 8-year curriculum, provides flexibility to accommodate individual choices should the student decide to either accelerate undergraduate efforts, or take an extra year to graduate.

Expenses

Estimates for expenses are based on the cost of tuition, fees, room and board set by the University for each of the programs.

Financial Aid

All enrolled candidates will be automatically considered for Merit Scholarships. A full range of financial and options based on student financial need are available as well. Candidates for need-based aid must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by March 1st.

For more information about student aid programs, contact the University of Connecticut's Student Financial Aid Services at 860-486-2819, write to U-4116, Storrs, CT 06269, or visit www.uconn.edu.