IU Fort Wayne is now accepting applications for the nation’s first-of-its-kind IU School of Dentistry Fort Wayne/Indianapolis B/DDS Pathway Program.
IU Fort Wayne’s pathway program gives dental technology students a seamless opportunity to continue their education and earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Eligible students admitted directly into the dental technology program may be considered for provisional admission to the IU School of Dentistry in Indianapolis.
Through this unique option, students will gain foundational knowledge of dentistry, including dental anatomy, materials and appliances, and laboratory procedures, while completing the scientific and general education prerequisite coursework required for dental school admission. Along the way, they will receive mentoring, research opportunities, Dental Admission Test (DAT) preparation, and experiential learning opportunities designed to enhance their predental education.
“Workforce shortages remain one of the biggest challenges facing dentistry in Indiana,” said Steve Ellinwood, director of dental education on the Fort Wayne campus. “At every dental meeting I attend, it’s the number one issue discussed. With state-of-the-art dental laboratory equipment on our campus, increased dental program enrollment, and this new pathway initiative, we're helping prepare the next generation of oral health professionals while improving access to care throughout Indiana and beyond.”
The B/DDS pathway program follows a traditional 4+4 model: four years in the undergraduate dental technology program followed by four years in dental school. Accepted students must continue to meet specific program requirements, participate in an admissions interview, complete all dental school prerequisites, complete at least 100 hours of dental shadowing experience, and earn competitive DAT scores to maintain their status.
“We're excited to launch this innovative pathway and create new opportunities for aspiring dentists,” said IU School of Dentistry Dean Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch. “Students in our Fort Wayne dental technology program develop a strong understanding of dentistry, exceptional technical skills, and applicable hands-on experience. By building on that foundation, this program will help prepare highly qualified and competitive dental school applicants who will be well prepared to become dental professionals who are ready to meet the evolving oral health needs of our state and beyond.”
To be eligible, incoming freshmen must meet specific requirements, which can be viewed on the IU Fort Wayne pathway program website. For more information, contact IU Fort Wayne Office of Admissions at iufw.admissions@iu.edu or 260-257-6760.