Student smiling.

Program Overview

Quick Facts

  • Delivery: On Campus
  • Credits: 120
  • Brand New State-of-the-Art Labs

Dentists all over the world are needed to diagnose and treat problems with our teeth and gums by doing everything from routine cleanings, to straightening teeth, to performing specialized surgical procedures.

Ball State’s pre-dentistry preparation major blends foundational coursework in biology, chemistry, physics and other subjects that are needed for graduates to be admitted to dental schools certified by the American Dental Education Association. You will also have the flexibility to add a second major that matches your interests and bolsters your skillset in the event you do not attend dental school.

Meet the Biology Faculty Who Teach in this Program

We have a dedicated support team in Biology including academic advisors with educational backgrounds in biological sciences and a faculty advisor with a PhD. They will assist you with the application timeline, setting benchmarks, and finding shadowing and volunteer opportunities. Feel free to contact one of the advisors to see what a course schedule would like look!

Our Program Meets Admission Requirements

Our undergraduate pre-health programs feature collaborations with specialized health programs in the region to ensure that our students are prepared after graduating from Ball State.

By completing this program, you will also fulfill admission requirements for professional school after Ball State.

Dedicated Pre-Health Professions Faculty Advisor

Dr. Jennifer Metzler works as an adjunct faculty at IUSM Muncie campus and is part of our dedicated support team in Biology.

Student Organizations

Our Pre-Health Professions Club enhances your understanding of health career challenges and accommodates and supports your changing needs. It also gives you ample opportunity to connect with your peers who are also studying subjects in pre-health.

In-Depth Research Opportunities

This program offers opportunities for you to participate in research through research credit classes, undergraduate research grants, laboratory journal clubs, summer research opportunities, undergraduate fellowship programs, and opportunities for physician shadowing.

Small Class Sizes

Our low student-to-professor ratio and small class sizes give you daily contact with professors in both lecture and laboratory, plus the individualized attention you need to excel.

Completing our pre-dental major will earn you a bachelor of arts or bachelor of science as well as help you meet the admission requirements for dental school.

Credits Required

Total to Graduate: 120

  • Major: 37
  • University Core Curriculum: 83

Courses

The courses you will take to complete the pre-dentistry preparation major are:

  • BIO 111 – Principles of Biology 1
  • BIO 112 – Principles of Biology 2
  • BIO 214 – Genetics
  • BIO 215 – Cell Biology
  • BIO 315 – Methods in Cell Biology
  • CHEM 111 – General Chemistry 1
  • CHEM 112 – General Chemistry 2
  • CHEM 231 – Organic Chemistry Part 1
  • CHEM 241 – Organic Chemistry Laboratory 1
  • PHYC – General Physics 1
  • PHYC – General Physics 2
  • ZOOL 330 – Structure and Development of Vertebrates

We also recommend taking the following elective courses:

  • BIO 313 – Microbiology (required for entry to Indiana University School of Dentistry)
  • CC 102 – Latin and Greek-based Bio-scientific Terminology

To learn about specific requirements for dentals schools throughout the United States, visit the American Dental Education Association. Your pre-dentistry preparation advisor will also help you find the right school for your and meet its admissions requirements during your time at Ball State.

For complete list of all the classes you will take as part of this program and their descriptions, please see our Course Catalog.

View Catalog

Keep Exploring

Take the Next Step

Do you want to learn more about our program or have questions about the application process or financial aid? We’re here to help! One of the best ways to understand why Ball State is right for you is to schedule a visit through our Office of Undergraduate Admissions to see it for yourself. Or if you’d like to speak directly to someone in our department, please feel free to call or email us.

Spotlight

Related Programs