Jonathan BensonIf you’re searching for the best dental schools in Jacksonville and their fees, you’re likely planning a career as a dentist, orthodontist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant. While Jacksonville, Florida does not currently have a traditional DDS/DMD-granting dental school within city limits, it offers strong specialty and allied dental programs. Additionally, several top-tier Florida dental schools are located within driving distance.
This comprehensive guide explores the top 10 dental schools and dental programs in and around Jacksonville, including tuition estimates, program structure, and career opportunities. Whether you’re seeking an affordable dental assisting certificate or a full Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, this guide will help you make the right decision.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Jacksonville And Fees
1. Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics
The Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics is the most advanced dental education provider located directly in Jacksonville. It offers a highly respected Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) in Orthodontics, accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This program is designed for dentists who want to specialize in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
Students receive extensive hands-on clinical experience, working directly with patients under faculty supervision. The curriculum includes biomechanics, craniofacial growth, diagnosis, treatment planning, and advanced orthodontic techniques.
Estimated Tuition:
- Domestic Students: ~$100,000 per year
- International Students: ~$140,000 per year
- Additional expenses: equipment, instruments, living costs
This program is ideal for licensed dentists looking to advance into a high-earning specialty field.
2. Florida State College at Jacksonville
Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) offers accessible and affordable dental support programs. While it does not offer a DDS or DMD degree, it provides Dental Hygiene and Dental Support Services programs that prepare students for entry-level clinical roles.
Students benefit from clinical experience through FSCJ’s on-campus dental clinic, gaining real-world patient interaction before graduation.
Estimated Tuition (Per Year):
- In-State: ~$2,095
- Out-of-State: ~$7,947
- Books & supplies: ~$1,400+
This is one of the most affordable dental education options in Jacksonville and is ideal for students seeking associate-level credentials.
3. Jacksonville Dental Assistant School
Jacksonville Dental Assistant School offers a streamlined program focused on preparing students for immediate employment as dental assistants. The curriculum emphasizes practical chairside skills, radiology certification, sterilization procedures, and patient care basics.
The program typically runs for about 10–12 weeks and includes hands-on training in real dental office environments.
Estimated Tuition:
- Total Program Cost: ~$3,250
- Payment plans available
This option is best for students seeking quick entry into the dental workforce with minimal debt.
4. Jax Beaches Dental Assisting School
Jax Beaches Dental Assisting School provides accelerated dental assistant training in a practical, small-class setting. The school focuses heavily on real-world dental office experience and prepares students for Florida certification requirements.
Students complete radiology training, CPR certification, and expanded functions coursework.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$3,579 total program cost
The fast-track nature of the program makes it appealing to career changers and high school graduates.
5. Dental Assisting Academy of Jacksonville
Dental Assisting Academy of Jacksonville offers an intensive short-term dental assisting course covering infection control, radiology, dental materials, and chairside procedures. The program includes hands-on practice and externship opportunities.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$5,000 (includes certifications)
Students who want a more comprehensive assistant training experience often prefer this option due to its expanded coursework.
6. Bartram Dental Assisting School
Bartram Dental Assisting School is known for flexible scheduling, including weekend classes. It offers a 10-week program tailored for students who may already be working or balancing other commitments.
The curriculum includes dental office administration basics, radiology training, and clinical procedures.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$6,200 total program cost
Though slightly higher in cost than other assisting schools, it includes certifications and externship training.
7. Accelerated Academy
Accelerated Academy provides a dental assistant certification program designed to help students enter the dental field quickly. The program covers sterilization protocols, patient management, X-ray procedures, and chairside techniques.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$3,579
- 10-week duration
Its affordability and quick timeline make it attractive for individuals wanting rapid workforce placement.
8. University of Florida College of Dentistry
Although located in Gainesville, the University of Florida College of Dentistry is one of the closest full dental schools to Jacksonville. It offers a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree along with specialty residencies in orthodontics, periodontics, pediatric dentistry, and oral surgery.
This is one of the top-ranked public dental schools in the United States and is highly competitive.
Estimated Tuition:
- In-State: ~$41,720 per year
- Out-of-State: ~$70,848 per year
- Additional expenses apply
For students serious about becoming licensed dentists, this is the nearest comprehensive DDS/DMD option.
9. Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine
Nova Southeastern University offers a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program known for its modern facilities and strong clinical exposure. Though located in Fort Lauderdale, many Jacksonville students consider it due to its private school flexibility.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$77,000 per year
While tuition is significantly higher than public institutions, the school provides strong networking and specialty training opportunities.
10. LECOM School of Dental Medicine
LECOM (Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine) School of Dental Medicine in Bradenton offers a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program with a focus on community-based education.
Students gain clinical experience in community health centers, which enhances real-world patient exposure.
Estimated Tuition:
- ~$58,000 per year
LECOM is often considered a more affordable private dental school option within Florida.
Comparison Table: Top Dental Schools in Jacksonville & Nearby
| School | Location | Program Type | Estimated Tuition | Degree/Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics | Jacksonville | Orthodontics Residency | $100K+ / yr | MSD |
| Florida State College at Jacksonville | Jacksonville | Dental Hygiene/Support | $2K–$8K / yr | Associate |
| Jacksonville Dental Assistant School | Jacksonville | Dental Assisting | $3,250 total | Certificate |
| Jax Beaches Dental Assisting School | Jacksonville | Dental Assisting | $3,579 total | Certificate |
| Dental Assisting Academy of Jacksonville | Jacksonville | Dental Assisting | $5,000 total | Certificate |
| Bartram Dental Assisting School | Jacksonville | Dental Assisting | $6,200 total | Certificate |
| Accelerated Academy | Jacksonville | Dental Assisting | $3,579 total | Certificate |
| University of Florida College of Dentistry | Gainesville | DMD | $41K–$70K / yr | DMD |
| Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine | Fort Lauderdale | DMD | $77K / yr | DMD |
| LECOM School of Dental Medicine | Bradenton | DMD | $58K / yr | DMD |
Conclusion
If you’re looking for dental schools in Jacksonville and their fees, your options range from affordable dental assistant programs under $4,000 to advanced orthodontic residencies exceeding $100,000 annually. While Jacksonville itself focuses primarily on specialty and allied dental training, nearby Florida institutions offer full DMD degrees for aspiring dentists.
Before choosing a program, carefully evaluate accreditation, clinical exposure, total cost of attendance, and long-term career goals. Whether you’re entering dental assisting or pursuing a full doctoral dental degree, Jacksonville and nearby Florida institutions provide multiple pathways to a rewarding dental career.