OHS Program FAQs

PROGRAM INFORMATION

DENTAL SCHOOL APPLICATIONS

Program Information

Do Oral Health Science students take courses with the Dental school students?

Yes. Some courses, like Biochemistry, Microbiology, Pathology and Physiology, are taken with current first year BU Dental students. Other courses, such as Prevention and Oral Health Promotion in Dentistry are taught by dental school faculty.

Are students assigned an advisor?

Yes. Once an applicant has matriculated into the school, they will be assigned a Faculty Advisor who will mentor them throughout the program.

Can I complete the MS in Oral Health Sciences Program in 12 months?

Yes, the program requires enrollment in four semesters and can be completed in 12 months by utilizing the two summer semesters. Students planning to matriculate to dental school immediately following program completion should submit their AADSAS  application PRIOR to beginning the OHS program ( in June).  Occasionally a student  may choose to complete a research-based thesis and complete the program in 2 years (<5%). The total cost of tuition is the same for both the 12 month and two year path.

Dental School Applications

Should I apply to dental school prior to applying to the OHS program?

Applicants should consult with their pre-professional undergraduate office and/or the OHS program regarding the decision to apply to dental school in the summer prior to entering the program.  Students who have chosen to apply to dental school prior to entering OHS should consult with Dr. Davies early in the semester so that OHS can best support their dental school applications. Students who are uncertain about WHEN to apply should speak to Dr. Davies as soon as they are accepted or in May prior to matriculation to the program.

Who can applicants speak with regarding the Dental School requirements?

Applicants seeking placement in an accredited program should request admission requirements and application procedures by directly contacting the institutions of their choice. Specific information regarding BU School of Dental Medicine admission policies can be obtained online.

Are matriculated Oral Health Sciences students guaranteed an interview at BU Dental School?

A majority of our students do interview at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, however this is not guaranteed and is based on performance in the Oral Health Sciences program. The Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine reserves the right to interview who they deem competitive.

How many students from the Oral Health Sciences Program matriculate into dental school?

Of the graduates who apply to a dental school, approximately 90% are admitted into dental schools; usually 12-15 students are accepted into Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine each year.

Are matriculated Oral Health Science students’ letters of recommendation sent to Dental Schools? If so, who is the appropriate person to handle this and what is the procedure?

No. When applying to dental schools, an applicant will need to request new letters of recommendation.  Students usually obtain letter(s) from their undergraduate institution as well new letters of recommendation from OHS faculty while in the program. The GMS office and Dr. Davies will assist you as needed when sending to AADSAS and will also provide a letter report as needed.