Predentistry
A dentist deals with clinical and individual problems that require both humanistic and technical education. At Luther, courses in language, literature, fine arts, social sciences, religion, history, and philosophy provide the humanistic background while courses in the sciences and mathematics provide the foundation required for the specific study and technical practice of dentistry.
The predental student at Luther usually majors in biology or chemistry. However, a major in another discipline can easily be arranged after consultation with the predental adviser. Most students complete a standard four-year program that prepares them to attend any dental school in the United States.
Some students choose to study at Luther for three years, then enter the four-year program at the University of Iowa Dental School through the cooperative Deferred Admit Program (DAP). This allows students to earn a B.A. from Luther and a dental degree from the University of Iowa in a total of seven years. Luther is one of a select few undergraduate colleges formally affiliated with this program.
A number of Luther faculty members are engaged in health-related research in addition to their teaching responsibilities. Faculty members understand the needs of students entering health professions and help them plan programs that satisfy specific dental school requirements and provide the background needed for a successful dental practice.