“What does it take to shape the future of dental medicine?” That’s a question Rutgers School of Dental Medicine answers every day. Founded in 1956, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine stands as New Jersey’s sole dental school. It is also the state’s largest provider of oral healthcare.
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine started as part of Seton Hall College of Medicine and Dentistry. The State of New Jersey acquired the college in 1965. In 1968, the medical school moved to Newark. The dental school remained in Jersey City until 1976. That year, its permanent Newark facilities were completed. In 2013, the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey merged with Rutgers University.
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine offers a four-year Doctor of Dental Medicine program. The school also provides programs for international dentists. Graduate programs include general practice residency and master’s degrees in oral biology. Specialty programs span endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, orthodontics, pedodontics, and prosthodontics.
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine is highly competitive. The school admits less than 5% of applicants. In 2023, it received over 3,200 applications. Accepted students boasted impressive stats. They had an average GPA of 3.6. Their average science GPA was 3.7. The average DAT score was 22.
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine underwent major renovations in 2004. These renovations added the 78,000-square-foot Oral Health Pavilion. Renovations also improved the 194,000-square-foot Bergen Street Pavilion. The Delta Dental Educational Conference Center features a multipurpose room. It also contains three lecture halls seating 400. The center hosts student meetings, events, and the annual White Coat ceremony. The community can also use the center for civic, cultural, and educational events. The upper level has patient clinics with dental equipment and technology. Faculty and students provide treatment there.
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine has a rigorous clinical program. About 90% of graduates get into their first-choice residency programs. These programs include General Practice Residencies and post-doctoral specialty programs. The school educates the next generation of practitioners. It also conducts pioneering research. Rutgers School of Dental Medicine treats patients in New Jersey and worldwide.
Rutgers School of Dental Medicine’s motto is “Sol iustitiae et occidentem illustra”. This translates to “May the sun of righteousness illuminate even the West.” This reflects the school’s commitment to excellence. It also represents their dedication to serving the community. As we conclude our visit to Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, remember its vital role. The school shapes oral healthcare’s future in New Jersey and beyond.