Dentists from other countries will be able to obtain a DMD degree, qualifying them for licensure and practice in the United States, through a new program at the Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine (CDM) pending approval of the school’s board of trustees.
The program will be about 26 months long, typically beginning in March and ending two years later in mid-May. The first class is expected to have five students. Only applications from United States citizens or permanent residents will be accepted for the 2019 entering class.
To practice in the United States, foreign dentists must obtain a US dental degree. Students in this program will complete a 10-week course that reviews the first two years of CDM’s curriculum. Then, they will join third-year CDM students for two years of clinical training.
The ADA Commission on Dental Accreditation has granted CDM’s International Dentist Program approval without reporting requirements. The program brings CDM in line with other California dental schools that offer international programs.
“There is a high demand for this program,” said CDM associate dean for clinical initiatives and program development David Lazarchik, DMD. “We believe it will increase the diversity of our class and the university community. It will be a great service to these dentists who can’t utilize their skills in this country without that degree to get a dental license.”
Related Articles
The World’s Top Dental Schools: 2018 Edition
Smartphone App Helps Identify Dental Emergencies
NYU Offers Dual DDS/MBA Degree Program
