Jonathan BensonBoston is widely recognized as a hub for world-class education and healthcare. For aspiring dentists, the city offers some of the best dental programs in the United States, blending academic rigor with hands-on clinical training. From historic institutions to modern research-driven schools, Boston provides unparalleled opportunities for dental education.
In this guide, we explore the top 10 dental schools in Boston, including program highlights, tuition fees, and key factors to consider before choosing a school.
Whether you’re a high school graduate, college student, or career changer, this post will help you navigate the dental education landscape in Boston.
Top 10 Dental Schools in Boston
1. Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM)
Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) offers a highly respected DDS program, combining dentistry with medical education. With a focus on innovation and research, HSDM provides students with a comprehensive education, preparing them for leadership roles in dentistry and academia.
Programs Offered:
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
- Specialty programs: Orthodontics, Periodontology, Oral Surgery
- Combined clinical and research degrees
Tuition & Fees:
- Tuition: ~$71,030 per year
- Total cost (including living expenses): ~$115,000 per year
Why Choose HSDM: Exceptional academic reputation, advanced research opportunities, and a holistic medical-dental curriculum.
2. Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine – Boston University
Boston University’s Goldman School of Dental Medicine emphasizes innovative education and community-focused patient care. Students gain hands-on experience through clinical programs and community outreach, preparing them for careers in dentistry and public health.
Programs Offered:
- DMD (4-year program)
- Advanced standing DMD (for internationally trained dentists)
- Postdoctoral specialty programs
Tuition & Fees:
- Tuition: ~$88,250 per year
- Total cost: Over $100,000 per year including living expenses
Why Choose BU: Strong clinical focus, community outreach programs, and hands-on experience in real-world dental settings.
3. Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM)
Tufts University School of Dental Medicine provides a comprehensive clinical curriculum with hands-on patient care, preparing students for dental careers. With over 300,000 patient visits annually, students gain extensive practical experience in various specialties, including pediatric dentistry and oral surgery.
Programs Offered:
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
- Specialty programs: Orthodontics, Endodontics, Pediatric Dentistry
Tuition & Fees:
- Tuition: ~$98,000 per year
- Estimated total cost: Over $600,000 for four years including living expenses
Why Choose Tufts: Historic school with strong clinical reputation, excellent research programs, and close ties to Tufts Medical Center.
4. Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene – MCPHS
The Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene at MCPHS University offers a top-notch dental hygiene program with a focus on clinical practice and community health. Students gain hands-on experience in MCPHS’s on-site clinics and partner sites, preparing them for careers as registered dental hygienists.
Programs Offered:
- Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene (BSDH)
- Clinical training focused on preventive care
Tuition & Fees:
- Tuition: ~$41,130 per year
Why Choose Forsyth: Ideal for students interested in dental hygiene careers or a pathway to further dental studies.
5. Boston College (Pre-Dental Track)
While Boston College does not have a dental school, its pre-dental program prepares students for dental school applications.
Programs Offered:
- Pre-Dental Track (Biology, Chemistry, DAT prep)
Tuition & Fees:
- Undergraduate Tuition: ~$60,000+ per year
Why Choose Boston College: Strong science curriculum and guidance for dental school admission.
6. Northeastern University (Pre-Dental Track)
Northeastern University’s pre-health programs provide a solid foundation for students aiming for dental careers. With rigorous coursework and experiential learning opportunities, students can prepare for dental school or allied health programs, leveraging Northeastern’s strong health sciences network.
Programs Offered:
- Pre-Dental/Pre-Health Track
- Co-op opportunities for hands-on experience
Tuition & Fees:
- Undergraduate Tuition: ~$55,000–$60,000 per year
Why Choose Northeastern: Excellent research exposure, cooperative education, and strong pre-dental advising.
7. University of Massachusetts Boston (Pre-Dental Focus)
UMass Boston provides a solid science foundation for students planning to attend dental school.
Programs Offered:
- Biological Sciences with pre-dental advising
Tuition & Fees:
- In-State: ~$15,000–$20,000 per year
- Out-of-State: Higher tuition rates
Why Choose UMass Boston: Affordable option for pre-dental preparation with access to research and clinical opportunities.
8. MCPHS University (Dental-Related Health Programs)
MCPHS University offers dental-related health programs, including dental hygiene and other allied dental fields. These programs combine classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience, preparing students for careers in dental care and public health.
Programs Offered:
- Dental hygiene and dental therapy programs
Tuition & Fees:
- Tuition: ~$40,000+ per year
Why Choose MCPHS: Offers flexible pathways into dental care professions and strong clinical training.
9. Pre-Dental Summer & Bridge Programs
Many Boston universities offer summer and bridge programs for pre-dental students, providing exposure to dental clinics, research, and DAT preparation.
Fees & Costs:
- Program Fees: $2,000–$10,000+ depending on the program
Why Choose These Programs: Enhances dental school applications and builds practical skills before entering dental programs.
10. Online & Hybrid Dental Science Courses
Boston institutions also offer online or hybrid dental science courses for students seeking additional knowledge before dental school.
Fees & Costs:
- Course Fees: $500–$4,000 per course
Why Choose These Courses: Flexible learning options to strengthen dental knowledge and improve DAT scores.
How to Choose the Right Dental School in Boston
Selecting the right dental school involves more than tuition and prestige. Consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by CODA.
- Clinical Opportunities: Hands-on patient experience is critical.
- Research & Specialty Programs: Schools like Harvard, BU, and Tufts offer advanced research and specialty training.
- Cost of Attendance: Include tuition, living expenses, and personal costs.
- Networking Opportunities: Boston’s healthcare ecosystem offers invaluable connections.
Average Dental School Costs in Boston
Dental education in Boston is on the higher end due to private school tuition and living costs:
- BU Henry M. Goldman: ~$88,250/year
- Tufts University: ~$98,000/year
- Harvard HSDM: ~$71,030/year
Including living expenses, total cost of attendance often exceeds $100,000 per year, so planning and financial aid are critical.
Conclusion
Boston is a premier destination for aspiring dentists, offering top-tier programs, cutting-edge research, and extensive clinical opportunities. From Harvard’s integrated medical-dental approach to BU’s community-focused training, and Tufts’ historic excellence, Boston has something for every aspiring dental professional.
Understanding tuition, fees, and program strengths is essential to choose the best path for your career in dentistry. With the right preparation, Boston can be the launchpad for a successful and rewarding dental career.