Jonathan BensonChoosing the right dental school is a critical step for aspiring dentists, dental hygienists, and dental support professionals. Tuition, program quality, clinical experience, and career opportunities all matter when making this decision. Indiana offers a strong ecosystem of dental education programs — from professional DDS programs to dental hygiene, dental assisting, and pre-dentistry tracks.
In this post, we explore the Top 10 Dental Schools & Programs in Indiana, including tuition fees and what makes each program unique. Whether you are looking for a full DDS degree or an entry-level dental career, this guide will help you make an informed choice.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Indiana And Fees
1. Indiana University School of Dentistry – DDS (Indianapolis, IN)
The Indiana University School of Dentistry (IUSD) is Indiana’s only accredited dental school offering a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. Part of Indiana University, it has a long history of producing skilled dentists and allied dental professionals.
Program Highlights
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- International Dentist Program (IU‑IDP) for internationally trained dentists
- Dental Hygiene (B.S.D.H.) and Dental Assisting programs available
Tuition & Fees
- Approx. in-state DDS tuition: ~$38,973/year
- Approx. out-of-state DDS tuition: ~$95,312/year
- Financial aid, scholarships, and loan options are available
This program is ideal for those committed to becoming licensed dentists in the U.S.
2. Indiana University School of Dentistry – Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (Indianapolis, IN)
IUSD also offers a Dental Hygiene Bachelor’s program, preparing students to become licensed dental hygienists and work alongside dentists in preventive care.
Program Highlights
- Bachelor’s degree (3.5 years)
- Tracks in health care administration, public health, or education
- Extensive clinical experience in real-world settings
Estimated Fees
- Tuition follows undergraduate rates at Indiana University‑Indianapolis
This program is best for students seeking a professional hygiene career with strong clinical training.
3. Ivy Tech Community College – Dental Hygiene / Dental Assistant (Multiple Locations)
Ivy Tech Community College offers dental hygiene and dental assisting programs across multiple campuses, including Anderson, Columbus, and South Bend. These programs focus on hands-on training, preparing students for careers as dental hygienists or assistants
Program Highlights
- Associate of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene
- Certificate programs for Dental Assisting
- Hands-on clinical training
Tuition & Fees
- Dental Hygiene associate in-state: ~$4,637/year
Ivy Tech is ideal for students seeking an affordable, career-ready dental credential.
4. University of Southern Indiana – Dental Hygiene (Evansville, IN)
The University of Southern Indiana (USI) offers a bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene, emphasizing clinical excellence and high board pass rates.
Program Highlights
- Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
- State-accredited program with comprehensive clinical experiences
Estimated Fees
- Tuition varies based on residency
Graduates are prepared to work in private practices, public health, or educational settings.
5. Indiana University Northwest – Dental Education (Gary, IN)
IU Northwest offers dental assisting and support education with hands-on training through its public dental clinic. Students gain practical experience in a real-world setting, preparing them for careers in dental assisting and support roles
Program Highlights
- Dental assisting certificate programs
- Practical clinic experience
Tuition & Fees
- Public college rates apply, varying by residency
Perfect for students looking to enter the dental workforce quickly.
6. Indiana University South Bend – Dental Hygiene (South Bend, IN)
IU South Bend offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with community outreach and real patient interaction integrated into the curriculum.
Program Highlights
- Professional dental hygiene education
- Clinical hours with public patients
- Emphasis on preventive care
Estimated Fees
- Tuition based on IU South Bend undergraduate rates
This program prepares students for a professional hygiene career with practical experience.
7. Purdue University Fort Wayne – Pre-Dentistry & Dental Education Pathways (Fort Wayne, IN)
While Purdue Fort Wayne doesn’t have a DDS program, it offers strong pre-dentistry tracks to prepare students for dental school applications.
Program Highlights
- Pre-dentistry academic advising
- Foundational courses in biology, chemistry, and physics
- Prepares students for competitive dental school applications
Tuition & Fees
- Undergraduate tuition varies by residency
Ideal for students planning to attend dental school after completing undergraduate studies.
8. Ball State University – Pre-Dentistry Tracks (Muncie, IN)
Ball State University offers biology and pre-health tracks that satisfy dental school prerequisites, providing a strong foundation for future DDS applicants.
Program Highlights
- Pre-dentistry academic advising
- Coursework in biology, chemistry, and human anatomy
Estimated Fees
- Standard public university undergraduate tuition
This program is perfect for students aiming for dental school while pursuing a flexible undergrad degree.
9. Ivy Tech Community College – Dental Support Services (Various Campuses)
Ivy Tech’s dental support services programs go beyond hygiene, offering training in dental lab technology and dental assisting. These programs focus on practical skills, preparing students for roles in dental labs, offices, and clinics.
Program Highlights
- Certificates and associate degrees in dental support
- Practical hands-on training in lab and clinic settings
Tuition & Fees
- In-state average ~$4,637/year
This is ideal for students seeking entry-level dental careers or dental lab roles.
10. Specialized Dental Certificate Programs in Indiana (Various Schools)
Several private colleges in Indiana offer short-term dental assistant certificate programs, providing quick entry into dental careers.
Program Highlights
- Certificate of Dental Assisting
- Hands-on training and clinic exposure
- Entry-level career pathways
Tuition & Fees
- Typically $2,950–$4,100 for full programs
These programs are suitable for students who want to start working quickly in dental offices.
Dental Schools & Programs Comparison Table
| Rank | School / Program | Type | Typical Tuition / Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Indiana University School of Dentistry (DDS) | DDS | ~$38,973 (IN) / ~$95,312 (OOS)* | Future dentists |
| 2 | IUSD – B.S. Dental Hygiene | Bachelor’s | Undergraduate tuition | Dental hygiene professionals |
| 3 | Ivy Tech – Dental Hygiene | Associate | ~$4,637/year | Affordable hygiene program |
| 4 | Univ. of Southern Indiana – Dental Hygiene | Bachelor’s | Varies | Clinical hygiene training |
| 5 | IU Northwest – Dental Education | Certificate / Associate | Varies | Dental assisting |
| 6 | IU South Bend – Dental Hygiene | Bachelor’s | Varies | Community-focused hygiene |
| 7 | Purdue Fort Wayne – Pre-Dentistry | Pre-Dental | Undergrad tuition | Dental school prep |
| 8 | Ball State – Pre-Dentistry | Pre-Dental | Undergrad tuition | Dental school prep |
| 9 | Ivy Tech – Dental Support Services | Certificate / Associate | ~$4,637/year | Support roles |
| 10 | Private Dental Assistant Programs | Certificate | ~$2,950–$4,100 | Quick-entry dental roles |
*Fees are approximate; confirm with the school for current tuition.
Conclusion
Indiana may only have one accredited DDS program, but the state offers a wide range of dental education options for aspiring dentists, dental hygienists, and dental support professionals. The Indiana University School of Dentistry remains the gold standard for a DDS, while schools like Ivy Tech, USI, and IU regional campuses provide affordable pathways into dental careers.
With careful planning, students can choose programs that match their budget, career goals, and desired entry timeline into the dental profession.