Jonathan BensonIf you’re looking to pursue a career in dentistry, Albuquerque offers a variety of programs for aspiring dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. While full DDS/DMD programs are still emerging locally, the city has several reputable institutions providing dental education and clinical experience, preparing students for successful careers in oral health care.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 dental schools and dental education programs in Albuquerque, including tuition, fees, program highlights, and why each school stands out.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Albuquerque And Fees
1. University of New Mexico – Dental Hygiene Program
The University of New Mexico (UNM) School of Medicine is a leader in dental education in the state. Its Dental Hygiene Bachelor’s program trains students to become licensed dental hygienists, focusing on patient care, preventive dentistry, and public health initiatives.
Program Highlights:
- Clinical practice under experienced faculty supervision.
- Education on preventive oral health care and patient counseling.
- Prepares graduates for state licensure exams.
Fees & Costs:
Tuition varies depending on residency status. Additional costs include clinical lab fees, instrument kits, uniforms, and board exam fees. On average, students should budget for several thousand dollars annually in total costs.
Why Choose UNM:
Licensable dental career path
Small class sizes with hands-on clinical experience
2. Touro Dental Health – Albuquerque
Touro Dental Health has recently opened a teaching facility in Albuquerque, part of the larger Touro College of Dental Medicine network. This state-of-the-art facility provides hands-on clinical experience while addressing the city’s need for dental care.
Program Highlights:
- Real-world patient care under faculty supervision.
- Focus on comprehensive oral health practices.
- Opportunities to engage in community dental health initiatives.
Fees & Costs:
As a clinical training facility, tuition details for students are emerging. Patients benefit from reduced-fee dental care, reflecting student participation in their training.
Why Choose Touro:
Hands-on clinical experience
Expanding dental school presence in Albuquerque
3. University of New Mexico – Dental Assisting Program
For those looking to enter the dental field quickly, UNM offers a Dental Assisting Certificate Program. This program prepares students to support dentists and hygienists in clinical and administrative tasks.
Program Highlights:
- Training in chairside assisting, radiography, and patient preparation.
- Prepares students for certification exams.
Fees & Costs:
Lower tuition compared to full degree programs, with additional costs for certification exams and supplies.
Why Choose UNM Dental Assisting:
Fast-track into the dental field
Practical, hands-on training
4. Pima Medical Institute – Albuquerque
Pima Medical Institute provides both Dental Hygiene Associate Degrees and Dental Assistant Certificates. It’s one of the most popular choices for students in Albuquerque looking to enter the dental workforce.
Program Highlights:
- Comprehensive training for dental hygiene and dental assisting.
- Combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience.
Fees & Costs:
Tuition depends on program length. Dental assistant certificates are generally shorter and more affordable, while the hygiene program spans 2–3 years.
Why Choose Pima Medical Institute:
Multiple program options in one school
Focus on clinical readiness
5. Central New Mexico Community College – Dental Assistant Program
CNM offers a Dental Assistant Program designed for students seeking affordable, practical training. It combines classroom instruction with clinical experience to prepare students for certification.
Program Highlights:
- Prepares students for the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and state certification.
- Hands-on training in lab and clinical settings.
Fees & Costs:
Community college pricing makes this an affordable option. Financial aid and scholarships may be available.
Why Choose CNM:
Cost-effective dental education
Accredited program with national certification preparation
6. UEI College – Dental Assistant Program
UEI College offers a Dental Assistant Program in Albuquerque that combines classroom instruction with clinical externships.
Program Highlights:
- Hands-on practice in dental offices.
- Training in patient care, dental procedures, and office management.
Fees & Costs:
Tuition varies depending on cohort and campus. Financial aid may be available for qualifying students.
Why Choose UEI College:
Short program (~10 months)
Combines theory with practical experience
7. NM & TX Dental Academy – Dental Assisting
The NM & TX Dental Academy provides fast-track dental assisting education, ideal for those looking to enter the workforce quickly.
Program Highlights:
- Short-term (around 10 weeks) dental assisting program.
- Covers radiography, patient care, charting, and basic dental procedures.
Fees & Costs:
More affordable than longer programs due to shorter duration. Tuition varies by session.
Why Choose NM & TX Dental Academy:
Quick entry into the dental field
Focused and intensive training
8. Carrington College – Dental Assisting Program
Carrington College offers training for students who want to become dental assistants, preparing them for real-world dental office work.
Program Highlights:
- Training includes clinical skills, patient care, and dental office workflow.
- Prepares graduates for certification and employment.
Fees & Costs:
Tuition and fees vary. Students should inquire directly for current pricing and schedules.
Why Choose Carrington College:
Comprehensive support training
Prepares students for multiple dental office roles
9. Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) – UNM Residency
For licensed dentists seeking advanced clinical experience, the AEGD Residency at UNM provides postdoctoral training in general dentistry.
Program Highlights:
- Advanced clinical training to enhance speed and judgment.
- Opportunities to work with diverse patient populations.
Fees & Costs:
Residency programs typically provide stipends or salaries, depending on funding and program structure.
Why Choose UNM AEGD:
Enhance clinical skills
Transition into independent practice with confidence
10. WICHE/PSEP Dental Schools – Out-of-State Options
Since Albuquerque does not yet have a full DDS/DMD program, many aspiring dentists enroll in out-of-state dental schools supported by WICHE/PSEP programs. These options offer tuition savings for students who commit to practicing in New Mexico.
Program Highlights:
- Access to full DDS/DMD programs at schools like A.T. Still University (Arizona), Midwestern University (Arizona), and University of Colorado.
- Tuition support reduces financial burden.
Fees & Costs:
Tuition varies widely by institution, but WICHE/PSEP programs can save $9,000–$35,000+ per year.
Why Choose WICHE/PSEP:
Access to DDS/DMD programs
Cost-effective for New Mexico residents
How to Choose the Best Dental Program in Albuquerque
Choosing the right dental program depends on your career goals:
- Aspiring Dentist (DDS/DMD): Look at WICHE-supported out-of-state schools or the emerging Touro Dental Health campus.
- Dental Hygienist: UNM or Pima Medical Institute are top local choices.
- Fast Entry into Dentistry: Dental assistant programs at CNM, UEI College, and NM & TX Dental Academy offer the quickest path.
- Advanced Clinical Training: UNM’s AEGD residency is ideal for licensed dentists.
Tuition & Fee Overview
| Program | Type | Estimated Fees |
|---|---|---|
| UNM – Dental Hygiene | Bachelor’s | Tuition + fees, instrument kits, lab supplies |
| Touro Dental Health | Clinical Training | Emerging tuition structure |
| UNM – Dental Assisting | Certificate | Community college tuition rates |
| Pima Medical Institute | Associate / Certificate | Program-based tuition |
| CNM – Dental Assistant | Certificate | Affordable community college pricing |
| UEI College | Dental Assistant | Program tuition varies |
| NM & TX Dental Academy | Certificate | Short course pricing |
| Carrington College | Dental Assisting | Tuition & fees vary |
| UNM – AEGD | Residency | Stipend / salary supported |
| WICHE/PSEP Schools | DDS/DMD | Tuition varies; savings through program |
Conclusion
Albuquerque is steadily expanding its dental education opportunities, with UNM, Pima, and Touro leading the way. Whether your goal is a career as a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant, there is a program to fit your needs, budget, and timeline.
By comparing program type, costs, clinical opportunities, and licensure outcomes, you can make a well-informed choice and set yourself on the path to a successful career in dentistry