Best Pre-Dental Majors: How to Choose the Right Path

"What should I major in if I want to be a dentist?" It is one of the most common questions in pre-dental forums. Many students worry that one wrong choice will close the door to dental school.

Dental schools accept students from any major. That still leaves a real decision, especially if you want a degree that serves you well if your plans change. In this guide to the best pre dental majors, you will learn what schools actually require, which majors pre-dental students often choose, and how to pick one that keeps your options open. We will also share questions to ask yourself if you are still unsure dentistry is your path.

Do dental schools require a specific major?

No. The University of Florida's advising office states that you can choose any major and that dental schools have no preference for a particular one. Princeton's health professions office also notes there is no required or recommended major.

What schools do require is a set of prerequisite courses. These often include:

• Biology with lab
• General chemistry with lab
• Organic chemistry with lab
• Physics with lab
• Biochemistry, at many schools

Requirements vary by school. ADEA publishes a chart of required and recommended courses for AADSAS schools, and each school's website has the final word. Our guide to entering dental school covers the other parts of the application.

Best pre-dental majors to consider

1. Biology

Biology is a common choice because many prerequisites are part of the major. It also prepares you for science-heavy dental school courses. The tradeoff is that many applicants share the same background, so your experiences and interests help show who you are.

2. Chemistry or biochemistry

These majors overlap heavily with the chemistry prerequisites and with DAT science content. They suit students who enjoy lab work and problem solving. Biochemistry also connects directly to topics you will study in dental school.

3. Biomedical engineering

Biomedical engineering builds strong math, physics, and design skills. Some students like it because it offers a solid career path outside dentistry. Check that your plan still includes the biology and organic chemistry courses dental schools require, since engineering programs do not always include them.

4. Non-science majors

Psychology, public health, Spanish, and business can all lead to dental school. They build skills like communication and understanding patients. You will need to add the science prerequisites, so plan your schedule early with an advisor.

Plan your prerequisites early

Whatever you choose, map your courses before your first year ends. Write down the prerequisites for three or four schools you might apply to. Then place each course in a semester, next to your major requirements. Science sequences like general and organic chemistry often run in a fixed order, so a late start can push back your timeline. Review the plan with your advisor each year. If you change majors, update it right away so you can see what still fits.

How to choose your pre-dental major

Ask yourself three questions:

1. Will I enjoy this subject and do well in it? Strong grades in courses you care about make a difference.
2. Does it leave room for prerequisites? Map out your four years before you commit.
3. Does it give me a backup path? A major you value on its own gives you options if your goals change.

It also helps to learn about the many paths within dentistry. Our guide to dental specialties shows how varied the field can be.

Get clarity through experience

Time in dental settings helps you test your interest early. Shadowing, volunteering, and conversations with dental students all show you what daily work in dentistry involves.

A dental service learning trip is another way to see dental work up close. On Smiles Movement trips, students shadow local dental professionals at mobile clinics and help with oral health education for children in partner communities. Many students use that time to confirm whether dentistry fits their goals. If you are still undecided, read whether non-dental students can join a trip.

Explore your path with confidence

The right major is the one that keeps you curious and prepared. If you want to see dental work in real community settings before you decide, Smiles Movement can help. Fill out the form on this page to get more information about upcoming programs or download our brochure.

Frequently asked questions about pre-dental majors

Is biology the best major for dental school?

Biology is common, but it is one of many good options. Dental schools accept any major as long as you complete their prerequisites.

Can I change my major and still apply to dental school?

Yes. Meet with an advisor to map out the prerequisites you still need. Changing majors may affect your timeline, so plan early.

Do I need a bachelor's degree to apply?

Most applicants complete a bachelor's degree before starting dental school. Requirements vary, so check each school's admissions page.