Our Learning Experience

Curriculum

At the UNMC College of Dentistry, our students undergo a comprehensive educational journey that equips them with the knowledge, skills and values they need to provide general dental care to patients in all stages of life. 

The dental curriculum is meticulously structured to ensure a systematic progression of knowledge and skills, as evidenced by the attainment of specific competencies. These competencies encompass a wide range of complex abilities that are essential for a general dentist to begin practicing independently and without supervision.

Students develop a solid foundation in biomedical, behavioral, and clinical sciences, cognitive and psychomotor skills, and a commitment to professional ethics and values. We foster a human-centered learning environment where each dental graduate develops a profound sense of responsibility toward themselves, their community and the dental profession.

Our curriculum is designed to accommodate the unique backgrounds, interests and career aspirations of each student, allowing them to realize their full potential in their dental education journey.

View class descriptions.

Hands-On Learning 

First Year 

Students start building their dental knowledge and skills in our interactive, collaborative classrooms where faculty use the latest learning technology to make dentistry come to life.  Students start preparing to work with patients by building their skills in the clinical and virtual simulation laboratory using the most advanced simulation technology. All students have opportunities to participate in community outreach programs.

Second Year 

Students continue building their dental knowledge and skills in our interactive, collaborative classrooms and clinical and virtual simulation laboratory. Students are introduced to digital dentistry in the digital design studio.  During the second half of the year, students start working with patients in the college's patient care clinic. They are assigned to teams that provide patients with all the care they need.  All students have opportunities to participate in community outreach programs.

Third Year 

Students spend more time working with patients in the college's patient care clinic.   Students continue building their dental knowledge and skills in our interactive classrooms, clinical and virtual simulation laboratory, and digital design studio.  Students conduct their own research projects, and many go on to present at national conferences and meetings.  All students have opportunities to participate in community outreach programs.

Fourth Year 

Students spend the majority of their time serving their patients. They also complete extramural rotations where they visit established dental practices for firsthand experience in running a private practice. Students complete two three-week rotations: one rotation in a rural private practice and one rotation in a public health clinic. All students have opportunities to participate in community outreach programs.