Jonathan BensonMichigan is home to some of the nation’s most respected dental programs. From world-class DDS schools to affordable dental hygiene programs, students have multiple pathways to launch a career in dentistry or oral health.
Whether your goal is to become a dentist, dental hygienist, or pursue a specialty, understanding tuition, programs, and school reputation is key. In this post, we talked about top DDS and dental hygiene programs in Michigan, tuition and fees for each program, as well as unique program highlights
Top 10 Dental Schools In Michigan And Fees
1. University of Michigan School of Dentistry – Ann Arbor, MI
Overview:
The University of Michigan School of Dentistry is consistently ranked among the top dental schools in the U.S. It offers DDS, dental hygiene degrees, and advanced specialty programs. Its research and clinical facilities are world-class.
Programs Offered:
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)
- Dental Hygiene (BS, MS, completion programs)
- Oral Health Sciences (MS, PhD)
- Specialty training (Orthodontics, Periodontics, Prosthodontics)
Tuition & Fees (DDS):
- Michigan Residents: $52,236 – $62,130 per year
- Non-Residents: $71,070 – $84,584 per year
Highlights:
- Advanced research opportunities
- Comprehensive dental hygiene pathways
- Highly respected nationally
2. University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry – Detroit, MI
Overview:
Located in Detroit, this school provides an accredited DDS program and several postgraduate specialties. It’s known for its strong clinical exposure, given Detroit’s diverse patient base.
Programs Offered:
- DDS
- Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene
- MS in Endodontics, Orthodontics, Periodontics
Tuition & Fees:
- DDS tuition: Approximately $28,000 – $30,000 per year
Highlights:
- Strong urban clinical experience
- Multiple specialty pathways
- Community-oriented patient care
3. Delta College – Dental Hygiene Program – Bay City, MI
Overview:
Delta College offers a fast-track dental hygiene associate degree, preparing students for licensure typically in two years. It should be noted that this is an affordable program with clinical training.
Tuition & Fees:
- In-district: ~$29,351
- Out-of-district: ~$45,905
- Out-of-state: ~$47,863
Highlights:
- Affordable program with clinical training
- Quick licensure path
- Well-respected in Michigan dental hygiene circles
4. Ferris State University – Dental Hygiene – Big Rapids, MI
Overview:
Ferris State offers a dental hygiene program designed to give students clinical experience and a pathway to a bachelor’s degree. If you want something with a strong hygiene curriculum, then go for this.
Tuition & Fees:
- Varies depending on residency and program year
Highlights:
- Strong hygiene curriculum
- Bachelor’s degree continuation available
- Clinical-focused education
5. Baker College – Dental Hygiene – Flint & Auburn Hills, MI
Overview:
Baker College offers a dental hygiene associate degree, emphasizing applied clinical skills and professional development.
Tuition & Fees:
- Tuition varies by campus and residency; typically mid-range private college fees
Highlights:
- Multiple campus options in Michigan
- Hands-on clinical experience
- Prepares students for dental hygiene licensure
6. Oakland Community College – Dental Hygiene – Orchard Ridge & Highland Lakes, MI
Overview:
OCC provides an accredited dental hygiene program with strong community clinic experience. Since it is a community college, it can boast of lower tuition compared to several other options on this list.
Tuition & Fees:
- Lower tuition typical of community colleges
- Additional fees for supplies and equipment
Highlights:
- Affordable dental hygiene pathway
- Hands-on community-based training
- Prepares students for state licensure
7. Mott Community College – Dental Hygiene – Flint, MI
Overview:
Mott Community College prepares students for licensure with a strong focus on clinical skills in its dental hygiene program. Coming from a community college, you can enjoy its affordable program.
Tuition & Fees:
- Community college tuition rates apply
- Supplies and board exam fees additional
Highlights:
- High licensure exam pass rates
- Affordable program
- Focused on practical skills
8. Macomb Community College – Dental Hygiene & Clinics – MI
Overview:
Macomb offers dental hygiene programs and operates dental hygiene clinics, giving students real-world experience while serving the community.
Tuition & Fees:
- Community college tuition applies
- Clinics often provide affordable care
Highlights:
- Hands-on clinical training
- Affordable tuition and fees
- Community service integrated into curriculum
9. Alpena Community College – Pre-Dental & Dental Hygiene Tracks – Alpena, MI
Overview:
Alpena is ideal for students preparing for transfer into dental schools or hygiene programs. It provides prerequisite coursework and support, and you can also take advantage of its affordability.
Tuition & Fees:
- In-district: $4,530
- In-state: $6,840
- Out-of-state: $6,840
Highlights:
- Affordable start for dental education
- Prepares students for competitive dental schools
- Small class sizes for personalized support
10. Gogebic Community College – Dental Assisting & Pre-Dental Courses – MI
Overview:
Gogebic Community College offers pre-dental and dental assisting programs, giving students a foundational path toward dental hygiene or DDS programs.
Tuition & Fees:
- In-district: $4,924
- In-state: $6,474
- Out-of-state: $7,373
Highlights:
- Affordable tuition
- Small class sizes
- Prepares students for dental assisting and pre-dental pathways
Comparison Table: Tuition and Program Focus
| School / Program | Degree | Approx. Tuition / Year | Program Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan School of Dentistry | DDS; BS/MS Dental Hygiene | $52k–$85k+ (DDS) | Research & clinical excellence |
| University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry | DDS; BS Dental Hygiene | ~$28k–$30k | Urban clinical experience |
| Delta College | Dental Hygiene AS | $29k–$47k | Fast-track licensure |
| Ferris State University | Dental Hygiene | Varies | Hygiene with bachelor’s option |
| Baker College | Dental Hygiene AS | Mid-range private | Clinical skills & professional development |
| Oakland Community College | Dental Hygiene AS | Community college rates | Community-based clinical training |
| Mott Community College | Dental Hygiene AS | Community college rates | Practical licensure preparation |
| Macomb Community College | Dental Hygiene | Community college rates | Hands-on clinics & experience |
| Alpena Community College | Pre-Dental | $4k–$6k | Prepares for transfer to DDS/hygiene programs |
| Gogebic Community College | Dental Assisting/Pre-Dental | $4k–$7k | Foundational dental training |
How to Choose the Right School in Michigan
- DDS Career Goal: Prioritize University of Michigan or Detroit Mercy.
- Dental Hygiene Goal: Consider Delta College, Ferris State, Baker, or community colleges.
- Budget-Conscious: Community colleges like Alpena, Mott, and Macomb are more affordable.
- Research Interests: University of Michigan excels in research and specialty training.
- Clinical Exposure: Urban schools like Detroit Mercy provide a diverse patient experience.
Tip: Always consider additional costs like supplies, board exams, housing, and living expenses when budgeting.
Conclusion
Michigan offers excellent options for aspiring dentists and dental hygienists. From the prestigious DDS programs at University of Michigan and Detroit Mercy to affordable, career-ready dental hygiene programs at community colleges, students can find the path that best matches their goals, timeline, and budget.
Start your dental journey by reviewing prerequisites, exploring tuition and financial aid, and selecting a school that aligns with your long-term career goals.