School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy
General Information
Overview
The School of Dentistry at the University of Detroit Mercy is one of the leading dental institutions in the United States, renowned for its commitment to excellence in education, research, patient care, and community service. Established with a mission to cultivate ethical, skilled, and compassionate dental professionals, the school emphasizes both technical proficiency and social responsibility. Situated in Detroit, Michigan, the School of Dentistry serves as a vital part of the local and regional healthcare network, providing affordable oral healthcare to thousands of patients annually while training students in real-world clinical environments.
The university combines a strong Jesuit and Mercy tradition with state-of-the-art facilities and innovative teaching methods to prepare graduates for modern dental practice. The School of Dentistry offers a wide range of programs, from predoctoral and graduate degrees to continuing education courses for practicing professionals. Its integration of digital dentistry, simulation labs, and patient-centered learning reflects its role as a forward-thinking institution dedicated to advancing oral health and improving lives.
Contact Information
Address: University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry, 2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208
Phone Number: (313) 494-6620
Email Address: dentaladmissions@udmercy.edu
School Facts
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 1932 |
| Motto | “Building Community Through Excellence and Compassion” |
| Type | Private, Catholic |
| Parent Institution | University of Detroit Mercy |
| Accreditation | Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) |
| Location | Detroit, Michigan |
| Programs Offered | DDS, Dental Hygiene, Advanced Dental Education, Continuing Education |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 7:1 |
| Clinical Partnerships | Detroit Mercy Dental Center, Corktown Campus Clinics |
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Rankings
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| Best Dental Schools in the U.S. | #22 |
| Best Private Dental Schools | Top 15 |
| Best Dental Hygiene Programs | #10 |
| Global Dental Education Ranking | Top 200 Worldwide |
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Academics
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Faculties / Departments
- Department of Restorative Dentistry
- Department of Endodontics
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Department of Orthodontics
- Department of Periodontics
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry
- Department of Dental Hygiene
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences
- Department of Comprehensive Care
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Courses and Programs / Majors
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Dental Hygiene (BS and Accelerated Programs)
- Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD)
- Endodontics Residency
- Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
- Periodontics Residency
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency
- Postgraduate Dental Continuing Education Programs
- Pre-Dental Preparatory Courses
Online Learning
The University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry offers select online and hybrid programs aimed at continuing education and professional development for dental practitioners. These include modules in digital dentistry, infection control, practice management, and oral pathology. Online learning platforms enable flexibility for working professionals and integrate virtual case studies and interactive lectures to maintain high educational standards. While the DDS program itself remains primarily in-person due to clinical requirements, digital resources and online course components are increasingly used to supplement traditional instruction and enhance accessibility.
Average Test Scores
| Test Type | Average Score |
|---|---|
| DAT (Dental Admission Test) | 20 (Academic Average) |
| GPA (Cumulative) | 3.6 |
| GPA (Science) | 3.5 |
| TOEFL (International Applicants) | Minimum 90 iBT |
Retention and Graduation Rates
The School of Dentistry at the University of Detroit Mercy maintains excellent academic performance indicators, reflecting its supportive and challenging learning environment. The retention rate among first-year dental students is approximately 95%, and the graduation rate exceeds 90%. These numbers underscore the institution’s dedication to student success through mentorship, tutoring programs, and advanced clinical support systems. Most graduates secure residencies or enter private practice within six months of completing their program.
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Admission to the DDS program is highly competitive. Successful applicants typically hold an undergraduate GPA between 3.4 and 3.8, with strong performance in science courses such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy. The average DAT Academic Average for admitted students is around 20. While SAT or ACT scores are not required for graduate-level admission, high academic achievement and relevant experience in dental or healthcare settings are strongly valued.
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance Rate | 6% |
| In-State Acceptance Rate | 8% |
| Out-of-State Acceptance Rate | 4% |
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Application Requirements
Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree or be in the process of completing one prior to enrollment. Required documents include official transcripts, DAT scores, three letters of recommendation (preferably from science faculty and a dentist), and a personal statement explaining motivation for pursuing dentistry. Volunteer or shadowing experience in dental settings is encouraged. International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency. Selection is based on academic performance, manual dexterity, communication skills, and commitment to service.
Application Process
- Submit AADSAS application (Associated American Dental Schools Application Service)
- Send official transcripts and DAT scores
- Provide letters of recommendation
- Submit secondary application for Detroit Mercy
- Attend interview (if invited)
- Receive admission decision and respond by the stated deadline
- Submit enrollment deposit to confirm acceptance
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| AADSAS Application Opens | June 1 |
| Application Deadline | December 1 |
| Interviews Conducted | September – February |
| Admission Decisions Released | March – April |
| Orientation and Classes Begin | August |
Essay Prompt
Applicants may be required to answer an essay question such as: “Describe a significant experience that has influenced your decision to pursue a career in dentistry and how you envision contributing to your community through this profession.” This essay is a key component in evaluating the applicant’s motivation, empathy, and understanding of dental care as a service-oriented profession.
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Scholarships
Detroit Mercy offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities, including the Dean’s Merit Scholarship, Minority Achievement Scholarship, and Service-Based Awards. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. The university also participates in federal loan programs and offers need-based grants. Students may qualify for external scholarships from dental associations and foundations, further reducing tuition costs.
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Per Year) | $59,500 |
| Fees (Per Year) | $2,000 |
| Health Insurance | $2,200 |
| Books and Supplies | $5,000 |
| Living Expenses | $18,000 |
| Total Estimated Annual Cost | $86,700 |
Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics (Gender, Age, Race/Ethnicity)
The student body at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Approximately 54% of students are female and 46% are male, with an average age of 24 at matriculation. The school enrolls students from across the United States and several international countries. Ethnic composition includes 48% White, 20% African American, 15% Asian, 10% Hispanic/Latino, and 7% identifying as multiracial or other. This diversity fosters a collaborative and culturally sensitive environment that enhances both the educational and clinical experience.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Detroit Mercy actively supports low-income students and students with disabilities through financial aid, counseling, and specialized accommodations. The Office of Accessibility and Disability Support Services provides assistance such as extended exam times, adaptive technology, and individualized academic plans. Low-income students can access scholarships, grants, and part-time work opportunities to ensure equal access to educational resources. The school’s mission, rooted in Jesuit and Mercy values, underscores its dedication to social equity and inclusion for all students.
Student Body
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 540 Students |
| Female Students | 54% |
| Male Students | 46% |
| International Students | 7% |
| Underrepresented Minority Students | 37% |
| Average Age | 24 |
| Average Class Size | 135 Students per Cohort |
University Diversity
Diversity at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry is integral to its educational philosophy. The school promotes cultural competence, encouraging students to understand and respect the diverse backgrounds of patients and peers. Community engagement programs allow students to serve Detroit’s underserved populations, exposing them to a wide range of socioeconomic and cultural contexts. Faculty-led initiatives and student organizations such as the Hispanic Dental Association and Student National Dental Association help foster inclusion and advocacy. This commitment to diversity enhances the overall learning environment and prepares graduates to provide equitable and culturally aware dental care.
Average Earnings
Graduates from the School of Dentistry at the University of Detroit Mercy consistently report strong career outcomes. The average starting salary for new dentists is approximately $125,000 annually, with potential to exceed $200,000 after a few years of practice. Specialists such as orthodontists and oral surgeons earn considerably more, often surpassing $300,000 annually. The school’s emphasis on clinical competence and professional ethics ensures that graduates are highly sought after in both private practice and community healthcare settings across the nation.
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The faculty and staff at the University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry are dedicated to advancing both education and clinical excellence. With over 120 full-time and part-time instructors, the school boasts a blend of seasoned practitioners, researchers, and educators. Faculty members engage students in rigorous academic and clinical training, supported by advanced technology and research facilities. Administrative and clinical support staff ensure smooth operations and provide vital services to both students and patients.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty members at the School of Dentistry are recognized experts in their respective fields, including restorative dentistry, oral surgery, and prosthodontics. Many hold leadership positions in national dental organizations and have published extensively in peer-reviewed journals. Their research contributions span oral disease prevention, dental materials, implantology, and community health. The school’s faculty are not only educators but also mentors who inspire students to pursue excellence in both clinical practice and service.
School of Dentistry – University of Detroit Mercy Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Located on the university’s Corktown Campus in Detroit, the School of Dentistry offers modern facilities, including advanced simulation labs, digital radiography suites, and patient clinics. While the dental school does not provide on-site housing, students have access to nearby apartments and university-affiliated housing options. The campus fosters a close-knit community, with numerous student organizations such as the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) and community outreach groups promoting engagement, leadership, and professional growth.
Transportation
The campus is easily accessible by car, public transit, and bicycle. Students can utilize Detroit Department of Transportation bus routes and parking facilities adjacent to the Corktown Campus. The university encourages sustainable transportation options, including carpooling and biking. Its proximity to major highways and Detroit’s downtown core provides convenient access to clinical sites, research centers, and community outreach programs across the metropolitan area.