The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry has various levels of study. The undergraduate provides specific science-related courses designed for those who plan to enter higher-level programs after graduating from college. Another level is the doctorate program, or DDS, which leads to a license in general dentistry and surgery. Even higher is the post-doctoral studies that train for specialty degrees and certifications in advanced or auxiliary procedures. In addition, the university has a program called Allied Dental Health, which prepares students for work as dental assistants or dental hygienists.
Selection to the DDS program is based upon academic performance in undergraduate studies, especially biology and chemistry, and 18 or better scores on each section of the Dental Admission Test or DAT. Other considerations are personal characteristics, leadership experience and community awareness. Also needed is an evaluation of a candidate's chances for success, and this part requires letters of recommendation and a personal interview. About 80 students are selected each year, 20 percent from out-of state locations and the rest from North Carolina.
One of the example programs in the post-doctorate fields is the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Certificate Program, a MD-integrated program, provides the student with a medical degree and eligibility for board certification in this type of surgery. Another option, among several others, is the General Practice Residency (GPR) program, a twelve-month program with second-year option. This is a clinical program that involves working as a resident at the school and at UNC-affiliated hospitals. This GPR program is fully accredited by the American Dental Association as are all UNC dental offerings.
Dental hygiene and dental assistant education is also available in the Allied Dental Health division of the university's dental school. Both programs teach courses that lead to certificates or a Bachelor of Science in either Dental Hygiene or Dental Assistance--or both. These programs are accredited by the Commission on Dental Education of the American Dental Association, according the school's website. Both courses of study provide thorough educational and practicum experiences that certify graduates for jobs in general and specialty dental offices as well as in public health clinics and hospitals.