Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine
General Information
Overview
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine (NSU-CDM) is a dynamic institution dedicated to training future leaders in dentistry by combining rigorous academic instruction, advanced clinical experiences, and a strong patient‑care mission. Established in the late 1990s, NSU-CDM has grown into a major center for dental education, research, and community service.
The college’s curriculum focuses on producing competent, confident general practitioners through its four‑year Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) program, coupled with numerous postdoctoral specialty residencies. Students are immersed in modern dental facilities, including simulation labs and clinics, where they deliver care to a wide range of patients—including underserved and medically complex populations—under faculty supervision. The college also emphasizes innovation in digital dentistry, research in biomaterials, oral biology, and public health, and global service learning. Through these experiences, graduates are prepared not only for private practice but also for roles in academia, public health, and specialty fields.
Contact Information
Address: 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale / Davie Campus, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA
Phone Number: (954) 262‑1101 for general college inquiries
Email Address: Prospective students typically use the NSU Dental Admissions contact through the university’s central admissions system.
School Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1997 — the first new dental school in the U.S. in 24 years when established |
| Type | Private, part of Nova Southeastern University |
| Accreditation | Accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation for its D.M.D. and postdoctoral programs |
| Dean | Interim Dean Steven I. Kaltman |
| Campus | Located on NSU’s Fort Lauderdale / Davie campus; dental facilities also in regional campuses |
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Rankings
| Region | Recognition / Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | NSU-CDM has one of the most competitive applicant pools among U.S. dental schools, historically receiving a large number of applications for a class of approximately 110–130 students |
| Global | While not often featured in typical global university rankings, NSU is noted for its research in oral biology, biomaterials, and its emphasis on community‑oriented dental care |
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Academics
Faculties / Departments
- Restorative Sciences & Public Health Dentistry
- Endodontics
- Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Periodontology
- Prosthodontics
- Maxillofacial Medicine / Oral Pathology
Courses and Programs / Majors
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) — 4‑year professional program
- Postdoctoral Residency Programs: Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD), Endodontics, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontology, Prosthodontics
- MS / M.S. Programs: such as Master of Science in Craniofacial Research for specialty residents
- Dual / Joint Degree Options: D.M.D./M.B.A., D.M.D./M.P.H., D.O./D.M.D. interprofessional program
- International Dental Program: A 39‑month advanced standing D.M.D. pathway for non‑U.S. trained dentists
Online Learning
While the core D.M.D. and clinical residency programs are primarily in-person due to the hands-on nature of dental education, NSU-CDM supports hybrid instructional models in some didactic and lecture-based components. Professional development and continuing education courses may be offered in formats that leverage online or blended delivery to accommodate working professionals.
Average Test Scores
| Test | Typical Benchmark / Requirement |
|---|---|
| DAT (Dental Admission Test) | Entering students have historically averaged in the 95th percentile nationally |
| Undergraduate GPA | Strong academic performance in prerequisite science courses is expected; exact average GPAs for recent classes are not publicly disclosed consistently |
Retention and Graduation Rates
NSU’s institutional data suggest strong student outcomes supported by early clinical exposure, simulation-based training, and mentorship. Dental students begin working in clinical settings relatively early in their training, reinforcing classroom learning and improving retention via hands-on engagement. Specific retention and graduation rates for the College of Dental Medicine alone are not publicly delineated but align with strong institutional metrics.
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Admissions
GPA Range and DAT Range
Admission to NSU-CDM is highly competitive. Applicants typically present strong science GPAs and high DAT scores; entering classes frequently include students whose DAT performance ranks in the top percentiles nationally. Prerequisite coursework, including biology, chemistry, physics, and English, is a critical part of the academic profile evaluated.
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Acceptance Rate
| Category | Estimate |
|---|---|
| D.M.D. Admission (Recent) | Approximately 12.6% for a recent class based on reported applications and offers |
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Application Requirements
Applicants to the D.M.D. program must submit a centralized application including transcripts, DAT scores, and secondary application materials. They should document prerequisite science coursework, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement that demonstrates their motivations for pursuing dentistry. NSU-CDM seeks candidates who are academically capable, committed to patient care, community service, and professional ethics.
Application Process
- Prepare and submit the application including academic transcripts and DAT scores
- Complete NSU’s secondary application as required by the College of Dental Medicine
- Submit letters of recommendation from academic and/or clinical sources
- Participate in an interview process if invited
- Await admission decision and follow next steps to matriculate
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Deadline | Event |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | Typically in early June |
| Application Closes | Usually around early February of the entering year |
| Secondary Application Deadline | Varies; prospective students should verify with the College of Dental Medicine’s admissions office |
| Interview Period | Conducted after submission of applications; usually in late winter / early spring |
Essay Prompt
Applicants may be asked to submit a personal statement outlining their motivations for dentistry, experience with patient care or service, long-term career goals, and how they see themselves contributing to the mission of NSU’s College of Dental Medicine. Essays reflecting commitment to community service, leadership, and ethical patient care are highly regarded.
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Scholarships
The College offers institutional scholarships, merit-based awards, and need‑based grants. There are also funding mechanisms for students in advanced specialty programs and international dental graduates. NSU encourages eligible students to apply for federal aid and external dental scholarships.
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| D.M.D. Tuition | Four-year cost may exceed $60,000+ per year including fees, supplies, and living expenses |
| Specialty / Postdoctoral Programs | Tuition varies by specialty and may include different funding models and stipends |
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Students come from diverse educational and demographic backgrounds. Predoctoral D.M.D. classes typically include recent college graduates with required science coursework, while postgraduate specialty residents may include more experienced dentists. The International Dental Program brings global representation.
Low‑Income Students / Students with Disabilities
NSU supports access through financial aid, scholarships, and service-learning opportunities. The college’s community service mission reflects its sensitivity to socioeconomic diversity among students and patients.
Student Body Breakdown
| Category | Number / Detail |
|---|---|
| Entering Class Size | Approximately 110–130 D.M.D. students per year |
| Approximate Applications | Around 3,500 applicants annually for the D.M.D. class |
| International Program | The International Dental Program enrolls internationally trained dentists into a 39‑month D.M.D. pathway |
University Diversity
NSU-CDM fosters a rich, inclusive educational environment. Its international program brings dentists from across the globe into U.S. training, cultivating a culturally diverse student body. Students come from various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The college emphasizes service to underserved populations through community clinics, mission trips, and outreach programs. Interprofessional collaboration with other health disciplines further exposes students to different perspectives and patient populations, preparing them to be culturally competent and socially aware dentists.
Average Earnings
Graduates typically enter private practice, public health clinics, or specialty training. D.M.D. alumni often begin careers as general dentists, while specialty program graduates may command higher earnings in orthodontics, oral surgery, or pediatric dentistry. Hands-on experience in community clinics prepares graduates for leadership roles in public health, enhancing career growth and earnings potential.
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty includes experienced clinicians, researchers, and educators across dental specialties. Administrative and support staff manage clinical operations, student affairs, and academic programs.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty are recognized in oral surgery, orthodontics, endodontics, periodontology, and public health dentistry. Research includes biomaterials, tissue engineering, and oral pathology. Faculty mentor students in clinical practice, research, and interprofessional collaboration.
Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
NSU-CDM is located on the Fort Lauderdale / Davie Health Professions Division campus, featuring 70,500 square feet of dental operatories, radiographic suites, surgical clinics, and simulation labs. Students may live on or near campus and benefit from a collaborative environment with other health profession students. Extracurricular and service-learning opportunities enhance student life.
Transportation
The campus is accessible via public transportation, campus shuttles, and major roadways. On-campus parking and pedestrian pathways support student mobility between academic and clinical sites. Transportation infrastructure also supports travel to off-site clinics serving underserved communities.