Jonathan BensonIf you’re dreaming of a career in dentistry — whether as a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant — Memphis, Tennessee, offers a variety of top-quality educational programs. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 dental education schools and programs in Memphis, break down their tuition and fees, and help you choose the best path for your future.
Whether you’re comparing DDS programs, dental assistant diplomas, or dental hygiene certificates, this list has you covered. Our ranking blends program relevance, cost transparency, local reputation, and career outcomes.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Memphis And Fees
1. University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry (UTHSC)
The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Dentistry is the flagship dental education program in Memphis. It is the only Accredited DDS dental school in the city, offering a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree and advanced specialty training.
Program: DDS (4-year dental degree)
Location: Memphis, TN
Ranking: One of the top dental schools in the Southeast for value and outcomes.
Tuition & Fees Academic Year – Estimates):
| Category | In-State | Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $30,844 | $70,186 |
| Fees | $5,967 | $5,967 |
| Other Costs (excl. living) | $14,202 | $14,202 |
| Total per Year | ~$51,013 | ~$90,355 |
| Program Total (DDS) | ~$188,012 | ~$345,380 |
Overview:
UTHSC College of Dentistry prepares students for licensure and high-level clinical practice. Its programs emphasize research, community dental health, and real patient experience — often through clinical rotations at community dental clinics.
Why Choose UTHSC:
- Comprehensive DDS degree
- Strong clinical and research opportunities
- Nationally recognized faculty and alumni network
2. Concorde Career College – Dental Assisting & Hygiene Programs
Concorde Career College – Memphis offers dental assisting and dental hygiene pathways that balance practical training with classroom learning. It’s ideal for students who want to enter the dental field faster than a traditional degree allows.
Programs: Dental Assisting Certificate, Dental Hygiene Associate
Accreditation: Dental assisting program ranked in Tennessee.
Tuition & Fees:
Typical total net price for students averages around $26,023 – $26,347.
Overview:
Concorde’s dental assisting program equips students with skills like chairside assisting, radiography basics, medical record keeping, and office administration — all critical for dental offices and clinic support roles.
3. Remington College – Dental Assisting/Assistant Program
Remington College – Memphis Campus offers a Dental Assisting/Assistant certificate program designed to prepare students for entry-level dental office positions.
Program Length: Varies (typically under 1 year)
Credentials: Certificate/Diploma
Tuition & Fees:
Approximate annual tuition: $20,047
Overview:
Students learn patient intake, dental radiography, sterilization protocols, equipment maintenance, and basic dental procedures. The program balances classroom learning with hands-on clinical instruction.
4. Memphis Dental Assistant School
The Memphis Dental Assistant School focuses exclusively on short-term dental assisting training, perfect for students who want to enter the workforce quickly.
Program: Dental Assisting Certificate
Tuition: ~$3,650 for full program
Overview:
This accelerated program is perfect for students looking to complete training quickly and begin working in dental offices. Payment plans and flexible schedules make it accessible for many students.
5. Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) – Dental Assisting
TCAT Memphis offers a Dental Assisting certificate with strong community ties. It should be noted that they place a lot of emphasis on hands-on skills and job readiness, and you should be ready to benefit from this.
Program: Dental Assisting (less than 2 years)
Highlights: Ranked #9 in Tennessee for dental assisting programs.
Fees & Costs:
Program tuition varies; contact school for current rates.
Overview:
TCAT Memphis emphasizes hands-on skills and job readiness, making graduates attractive to local dental practices and clinics.
6. Local Dental Hygiene Pathways
While Memphis itself doesn’t have a dedicated dental hygiene college beyond Concorde’s programs, local community colleges and universities offer dental hygiene clinic rotation partnerships with Memphis dental education providers.
Examples:
- Dental hygiene pathways with community college degrees
- Clinical rotations through local dental centers
Estimated Fees: Varies widely by institution. Contact schools directly for up-to-date figures.
Overview:
These programs are excellent for students seeking licensed dental hygienist credentials before potentially advancing into a DDS program.
7. Online Dental Assistant & Support Programs
Many students combine online coursework with in-person clinical labs. Local Memphis dental schools partner with hybrid learning platforms providing:
Benefits:
- Flexible scheduling
- Lower tuition than traditional college programs
- Preparation for certification exams
Estimated Fees: Often $4,000 – $8,000 depending on the provider.
While not strictly Memphis-based, these programs are popular among residents who do clinical labs locally and complete the didactic portion online.
8. Dental Laboratory Technology Pathways
Technical colleges near Memphis offer Dental Lab Technology programs, training students to create dental prosthetics, crowns, dentures, and orthodontic appliances. If you are interested in this path, you can conduct more research along the lines.
Program Duration: 1–2 years
Skills Covered: Prosthetics, material science, dental anatomy
Estimated Tuition: Varies by college; check local listings.
Overview:
These programs are excellent for students interested in the technical side of dental care careers.
9. Continuing Education & Specialty Dental Training (UTHSC)
UTHSC College of Dentistry offers advanced specialty certificates, like Endodontics, Orthodontics, and Pediatric Dentistry. It should be noted that we can recommend this to you if you are a dentist seeking enhanced clinical skills after earning your DDS.
Program Type: Post-doctoral specialty programs
Tuition: Varies by program and year
Overview:
These programs are ideal for dentists seeking enhanced clinical skills after earning their DDS.
10. Community Health-Focused Dental Programs
Several nonprofit and community partners in Memphis offer dental training rotations, internships, and externships, often in partnership with UTHSC or TCAT.
Examples: Community service learning clinics
Fees: Often included as part of broader dental programs
Overview:
These rotational programs are highly valuable for hands-on experience and future employment opportunities.
Comparison Table: Memphis Dental Schools & Programs
| # | School / Program | Type of Program | Approx. Tuition / Fees | Credential Earned |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | UTHSC College of Dentistry | DDS dental school | $51,013 (in-state) / $90,355 (out-of-state) per year | DDS degree |
| 2 | Concorde Career College | Assisting / Hygiene | ~$26,023 – $26,347 | Certificate / Associate |
| 3 | Remington College | Dental Assistant | ~$20,047 | Certificate |
| 4 | Memphis Dental Assistant School | Dental Assistant | ~$3,650 | Certificate |
| 5 | TCAT Memphis | Dental Assisting | Varies | Certificate |
| 6 | Local Hygienist Pathways | Dental Hygiene | Varies | Associate / Diploma |
| 7 | Online Dental Support Programs | Assisting/Support | $4,000–$8,000 | Certificate |
| 8 | Dental Lab Technology Pathways | Dental Lab | Varies | Certificate / Associate |
| 9 | UTHSC Specialty Programs | Advanced Training | Varies | Specialty certificate |
| 10 | Community Rotations & Internships | Experiential | Included in program | Experience / CE credits |
How to Choose the Right Dental School in Memphis
Choosing the right dental school or dental education program depends on your career goals, budget, and timeline.
Ask Yourself:
- Do I want to become a licensed dentist (DDS)?
- Am I aiming for a dental assisting career?
- Is affordability my top priority?
- Do I need flexible, online learning options?
Tips Before Applying:
- Visit school websites for the latest tuition and application details
- Attend open houses or info sessions
- Speak with alumni and current students
- Explore financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Conclusion
Memphis offers a diverse range of dental education options — from the respected UTHSC College of Dentistry DDS program to fast-track dental assisting certificates and specialized training pathways. Whether you’re just beginning your dental journey or enhancing your skills, there’s a program in Memphis to suit your goals and budget.
Investing in dental education can open doors to a fulfilling, high-demand career helping others maintain oral health — and Memphis is a great place to start that journey.