Jonathan BensonIf you’re planning a dental career in Colorado, you’re in luck! The state offers excellent programs for aspiring dentists, dental hygienists, and dental support professionals. Whether you aim to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree, train as a dental hygienist, or pursue dental assisting, Colorado has options for you.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 dental schools and programs in Colorado, including tuition and fees, program highlights, and what makes each one unique.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Colorado And Fees
1. University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine – Aurora, CO
The University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine is the only dental school in Colorado offering a DDS degree. Located at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus, it combines cutting-edge research, hands-on clinical training, and community service opportunities. Students gain experience treating patients at the Anschutz campus and affiliated clinics, preparing them for real-world practice.
Program Highlights
- Accredited DDS program.
- Advanced specialty residencies, including Orthodontics and Periodontics.
- Extensive clinical exposure with diverse patient populations.
Fees & Tuition
- In-State: ~$46,000/year
- Out-of-State/WICHE: ~$72,000+/year
(Additional clinic and instrument fees may apply)
Why Choose CU Dental: It’s the flagship dental school in the state, known for rigorous academics and strong preparation for licensure and practice anywhere in the U.S.
2. Community College of Denver – Dental Hygiene Program
The Community College of Denver (CCD) offers a top-rated Dental Hygiene AAS program, training students to become licensed dental hygienists. Hygienists focus on preventive care, patient education, and basic clinical procedures.
Program Highlights
- CODA-accredited program.
- Prepares students for national and clinical board exams.
- Combines classroom learning with hands-on clinic experience.
Fees & Tuition
- In-State: ~$8,000–$15,000/year
Why Choose CCD: Its program offers a strong balance of theory and clinical practice, plus the benefit of Denver’s larger healthcare community for internships.
3. Colorado Northwestern Community College – Dental Hygiene Program
Colorado Northwestern Community College (CNCC) in Rangely offers a CODA-accredited Dental Hygiene AAS program. It’s ideal for students seeking personalized attention and a smaller learning environment.
Program Highlights
- Hands-on clinical rotations.
- Prepares students for licensing exams.
- Small class sizes allow personalized learning.
Fees & Tuition
- In-State: ~$4,200–$15,000/year
Why Choose CNCC: Affordable tuition combined with a quality program makes it a great option for students in northwest Colorado.
4. Pikes Peak State College – Dental Hygiene Program
Pikes Peak State College in Colorado Springs offers a comprehensive Dental Hygiene program, preparing students for licensure as registered dental hygienists.
Program Highlights
- Hands-on training in preventive care and radiography.
- Graduates eligible for national and regional board exams.
- CODA-accredited curriculum.
Fees & Tuition
- In-State: ~$8,000–$15,000/year
Why Choose PPSC: Its strong clinical focus equips students for immediate entry into the workforce.
5. Red Rocks Community College – Dental Support & Assisting Programs
Red Rocks Community College offers affordable dental assisting and support programs, preparing students for critical roles in dental offices.
Program Highlights
- Certificate or associate degree tracks.
- Hands-on clinical exposure.
- Prepares students for immediate workforce entry.
Fees & Tuition
- In-State: ~$4,389/year
Why Choose Red Rocks: One of the most affordable options in Colorado for dental support training, with practical career focus.
6. Colorado State University – Pre-Dental Tracks
While CSU doesn’t offer a DDS, it provides strong pre-dental preparation to help students get accepted to dental schools like CU.
Program Highlights
- Rigorous science courses (biology, chemistry, anatomy).
- DAT prep and application guidance.
- Research opportunities in health sciences.
Fees & Tuition
- Undergraduate Tuition: ~$12,000–$15,000/year in-state
Why Choose CSU: Ideal for students who want to build a strong academic foundation before dental school.
7. Pueblo Community College – Dental Support Programs
Pueblo Community College offers programs in dental assisting and support services, providing affordable career pathways in dental care.
Program Highlights
- Hands-on training with local clinics.
- Dental assisting certificates.
- Prepares students for immediate employment.
Fees & Tuition
- In-State: ~$4,536–$10,000/year
Why Choose Pueblo: Affordable tuition and practical experience make this a great choice for entry-level dental careers.
8. Front Range Community College – Dental Hygiene & Support
FRCC provides dental hygiene programs and allied dental training across multiple campuses in Colorado.
Program Highlights
- Dental hygiene associate degrees.
- Dental assisting and support courses.
- Accredited programs with board exam prep.
Fees & Tuition
- In-State: ~$8,000–$14,000/year
Why Choose FRCC: Offers flexibility and multiple locations for students throughout Colorado.
9. Concorde Career College – Dental Support Programs
Concorde Career College in Aurora focuses on career-ready dental support and assisting programs.
Program Highlights
- Industry-aligned curriculum.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Job placement support.
Fees & Tuition
- Annual Cost: ~$20,937 (with aid)
Why Choose Concorde: Ideal for students who want a career-focused program with rapid workforce entry.
10. IBMC College – Dental Support & Health Sciences
IBMC College in Fort Collins provides programs in dental assisting and allied health, preparing students for practical careers in dentistry.
Program Highlights
- Small class sizes.
- Hands-on clinical training.
- Career-focused education.
Fees & Tuition
- Approximate Tuition: ~$15,000–$25,000+
Why Choose IBMC: Excellent for students seeking practical skills and rapid certification in dental assisting roles.
Comparison Table: Top 10 Dental Schools & Programs in Colorado
| School / Program | Location | Type | Typical Annual Tuition | Credentials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine | Aurora | DDS Dental School | ~$46,000+ (in-state) | DDS, Residencies |
| Community College of Denver – Dental Hygiene | Denver | Hygiene (AAS) | ~$8,000–$15,000 | RDH |
| Colorado Northwestern CC – Dental Hygiene | Rangely | Hygiene (AAS) | ~$4,200–$15,000 | RDH |
| Pikes Peak State College – Dental Hygiene | Colorado Springs | Hygiene (AAS) | ~$8,000–$15,000 | RDH |
| Red Rocks Community College – Dental Support | Lakewood | Dental Assisting | ~$4,389 | Certificate |
| Colorado State University – Pre-Dental | Fort Collins | Pre-Dental | ~$12,000–$15,000 | N/A |
| Pueblo Community College – Dental Support | Pueblo | Dental Assisting | ~$4,536–$10,000 | Certificate |
| Front Range CC – Dental Hygiene/Support | Multiple | Hygiene/Support | ~$8,000–$14,000 | RDH/Cert |
| Concorde Career College | Aurora | Dental Support | ~$20,937 (with aid) | Certificate |
| IBMC College | Fort Collins | Dental Support | ~$15,000–$25,000+ | Certificate |
Conclusion
Colorado offers diverse dental education pathways, from the DDS degree at CU Dental to dental hygiene and dental support programs at community colleges and technical schools.
- Aspiring Dentists: University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine is your go-to choice for a rigorous DDS program.
- Dental Hygienists & Assistants: Community colleges like CCD, Pikes Peak, and Red Rocks offer affordable, hands-on programs.
- Pre-Dental Students: CSU and similar universities provide a strong science foundation to strengthen dental school applications.
When choosing a program, consider accreditation, tuition, career goals, and location. Costs can change yearly, so always verify directly with schools before applying.