Jonathan BensonIf you’re dreaming of becoming a dentist in Chicago, you’re in luck! The Windy City and its surrounding suburbs offer a range of dental programs, from world-class dental schools to pre-dental and allied health programs that prepare you for a rewarding career in oral health.
Choosing the right dental school is crucial for your education, career opportunities, and finances. In this guide, we break down the top 10 dental schools in and around Chicago, including tuition, fees, unique offerings, and what makes each program stand out.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Chicago And Fees
1. University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Dentistry is the largest and most recognized dental school in Illinois. It combines research, clinical excellence, and community service to train well-rounded dental professionals.
Highlights:
- Offers D.M.D., Ph.D., and joint D.M.D./Ph.D. degrees
- Hands-on clinical training in Chicago’s diverse urban setting
- Strong focus on research and public health initiatives
Tuition & Fees (Recent Estimates):
- In-State D1 Year: ~$54,498
- Out-of-State D1 Year: ~$84,140
- Four-Year Total: ~$299,739 (In-State), ~$462,770 (Out-of-State)
Why Choose UIC:
UIC combines top-tier education with a commitment to community service, making it ideal for students who want a well-rounded, high-quality dental education.
2. Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine – Illinois
Located in Downers Grove, Midwestern University’s College of Dental Medicine is a private institution known for its intensive clinical focus.
Highlights:
- Early hands-on clinical experience
- Smaller student-to-faculty ratio for personalized attention
- Modern dental facilities and simulation labs
Tuition & Fees:
- Annual Tuition: ~$90,858
- Additional Fees: ~$24,121
- Total D1 Year Estimate: ~$115,719
- Four-Year Program: ~$450,169
Why Choose Midwestern:
If you want extensive clinical exposure in a private school setting, Midwestern University is a top choice for future dentists.
3. Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine – Alton, IL
Though located about 300 miles from Chicago, SIU’s dental school is a strong choice for Illinois residents seeking quality dental education at a more affordable rate.
Highlights:
- D.D.S. program focused on community service
- Blend of foundational science and clinical experience
Tuition & Fees:
- Resident Semester: ~$20,418
- International/Out-of-State: ~$42,141
Why Choose SIU:
SIU is perfect for students who want a smaller, community-focused program that emphasizes practical skills.
4. City Colleges of Chicago – Dental Hygiene Program
City Colleges of Chicago offers dental hygiene programs that prepare students for careers as licensed dental hygienists. These programs also serve as stepping stones to dental school.
Highlights:
- Hands-on clinical training
- Affordable tuition
- Pathway to further dental education
5. College of DuPage – Dental Hygiene Program
The College of DuPage’s Dental Hygiene program offers strong clinical and academic training, preparing students for careers in dental hygiene. With hands-on experience in the college’s dental clinic, students gain skills in patient care, radiography, and oral health education, leading to certification and job placement.
Highlights:
- Affordable tuition for high-quality training
- Strong career preparation
- Articulation agreements with dental schools
6. Illinois Institute of Technology – Pre-Dental Preparation
Illinois Institute of Technology’s pre-dental program offers robust coursework and advising for students preparing for dental school. With strong science and math foundations, students get personalized advising and research opportunities, making them competitive applicants for dental programs.
Highlights:
- Rigorous science curriculum
- Support for dental school applications
- Strong STEM foundation
7. DePaul University – Pre-Dental/Science Preparation
DePaul University’s pre-dental program prepares students for dental school with strong science coursework and personalized advising. Students gain a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, and physics, making them competitive applicants for dental programs.
Highlights:
- Solid academic foundation
- Liberal arts integration
- Preparation for competitive dental programs
8. Rush University – Oral Health Sciences & Specialty Programs
Rush University’s Oral Health Sciences & Specialty Programs offer advanced training for dental professionals seeking specialty certifications. Programs include endodontics, orthodontics, and pediatric dentistry, with hands-on clinical experience and research opportunities.
Highlights:
- Focus on periodontics, prosthodontics, and research
- Interdisciplinary health programs
- Postgraduate opportunities
9. Northwestern University – Dental Research & Health Sciences
Although Northwestern University no longer operates a dental school, it provides relevant health sciences and research programs for aspiring dental professionals.
Highlights:
- Biomedical research opportunities
- Strong academic reputation
- Supports pre-dental and dental graduate students
10. Allied Dental Programs in Chicago
Chicago hosts numerous community colleges and vocational programs for dental assistants, lab technicians, and allied dental careers.
Highlights:
- Affordable and practical training
- Prepares for dental school or dental practice careers
- Strong local employment opportunities
Comparison Table: Dental Schools & Program Fees
| School / Program | Location | Degree / Credential | Estimated Annual Tuition & Fees | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UIC College of Dentistry | Chicago, IL | D.M.D. | $54,498 (IS) / $84,140 (OOS) | Public; strong clinical & research |
| Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine | Downers Grove, IL | D.M.D. | $115,719 | Private; high clinic emphasis |
| Southern Illinois University SDM | Alton, IL | D.D.S. | $20,418 (Resident) / $42,141 (OOS) | Community-focused |
| City Colleges of Chicago – Dental Hygiene | Chicago, IL | Dental Hygiene | Varies | Affordable, hands-on program |
| College of DuPage – Dental Hygiene | Glen Ellyn, IL | Dental Hygiene | Varies | Prepares for dental careers |
| Illinois Tech – Pre-Dental | Chicago, IL | Pre-Dental | Varies | STEM-focused foundation |
| DePaul University – Pre-Dental | Chicago, IL | Pre-Dental | Varies | Liberal arts + science prep |
| Rush University – Oral Health | Chicago, IL | Oral Health / Specialty | Varies | Postgraduate specialty programs |
| Northwestern University – Health Sciences | Evanston, IL | Health Sciences | Varies | Research and academic programs |
| Allied Dental Programs | Chicago, IL | Assoc./Cert | Varies | Dental assistant & lab tech training |
Conclusion
While Chicago may have fewer traditional dental schools than other major cities, it offers high-quality options for both D.M.D./D.D.S. programs and allied dental careers. Institutions like UIC College of Dentistry and Midwestern University stand out for their clinical excellence and career readiness. For students exploring pre-dental paths, hygiene programs, or specialty training, Chicago’s educational ecosystem provides solid preparation at every level.
Careful consideration of tuition, location, clinical opportunities, and program focus will ensure your dental education sets you up for a successful and fulfilling career.