Jonathan BensonMinneapolis is a hub for excellent dental education, offering programs for future dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants. From world-class dental schools to affordable community college programs, there’s an option for every aspiring dental professional.
This guide ranks the top 10 dental schools and programs in Minneapolis, detailing tuition costs, programs offered, and what makes each school unique.
Top 10 Dental Schools In Minneapolis And Fees
1. University of Minnesota School of Dentistry
The University of Minnesota School of Dentistry is the state’s only accredited dental school and the leading choice for aspiring dentists. Offering DDS programs, dental hygiene degrees, and multiple specialty programs, it provides both comprehensive education and advanced clinical training.
Programs Offered:
- DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery)
- Bachelor’s and Master’s in Dental Hygiene
- Dental Therapy/Dual Degree
- Advanced Specialty Training (Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Endodontics)
Fees & Tuition (Approximate):
| Program | Resident Tuition | Non‑Resident Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| DDS (per semester) | ~$24,987 | ~$46,403 |
| DDS (annual) | ~$50,000+ | ~$90,000+ |
| Dental Therapy Graduate | ~$10,980 per semester | ~$17,312 per semester |
Estimated Total DDS Cost: $220,000–$400,000 over four years.
Why It’s Top: This is Minnesota’s only full dental doctorate program, offering specialty tracks and extensive clinical experience, making it the premier choice for future dentists.
2. Herzing University – Minneapolis
Herzing University offers highly respected dental hygiene and dental assisting programs. Students receive practical, career-ready training that prepares them for licensure and professional practice.
Programs Offered:
- BS in Dental Hygiene
- Dental Assisting Diploma or Certificate
- Bridge Options from Assisting to Hygiene
Fees & Tuition (Approximate):
- Dental Hygiene Bachelor’s: $15,000–$20,000 per year
- Dental Assisting Certificates: $12,000–$15,000 total
Why It’s Top: Flexible pathways allow students to progress from assisting into hygiene, with small class sizes and industry-focused instruction.
3. Century College
Century College provides affordable dental hygiene and dental assisting programs with strong clinical components. Graduates are prepared to become licensed dental hygienists or assistants.
Programs Offered:
- Associate in Dental Hygiene
- Dental Assisting Program
Fees & Tuition (Approximate):
- Dental Hygiene: $7,000–$17,000 per year (after aid)
- Dental Assisting: Under $10,000 total
Why It’s Top: One of the most cost-effective paths to becoming a dental hygienist, Century College combines affordability with strong professional outcomes.
4. Normandale Community College
Normandale offers an Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene and a direct pathway to a bachelor’s degree through partnerships with nearby universities.
Programs Offered:
- Associate Degree in Dental Hygiene
- Dual pathway to Bachelor’s via Metropolitan State University
Fees & Tuition (Approximate):
- Dental Hygiene Associate: ~$18,500 plus supplies (~$5,000)
Why It’s Top: Affordable associate program with a clear progression to a bachelor’s degree, ideal for budget-conscious students seeking professional advancement.
5. Minneapolis Community and Technical College
This college provides accredited dental assistant certificates and associate degrees, preparing students for entry-level careers in dental offices.
Programs Offered:
- Dental Assistant Core Certificate
- Dental Assistant Diploma
- Associate of Applied Science in Dental Assisting
Fees & Tuition (Approximate):
- $6,000–$12,000 total, depending on residency
Why It’s Top: Accessible dental assistant training with strong hands-on clinical experience in the heart of Minneapolis.
6. Metropolitan State University
Metro State specializes in Dental Hygiene Bachelor’s completion programs, allowing licensed hygienists with associate degrees to earn a full bachelor’s degree.
Programs Offered:
- Dental Hygiene (BSDH) Completion Program
Fees & Tuition (Approximate):
- $15,000–$18,000 per year
Why It’s Top: Perfect for dental hygienists aiming to advance their education and career without relocating.
7. Twin Cities Dental Assisting Certificate Programs (Various Providers)
Various accredited providers in Minneapolis offer dental assisting certificates, preparing students for certification and Minnesota licensure.
Programs Offered:
- Dental Assisting Certificates
- Clinical Training Programs
Fees & Tuition (Approximate):
- $6,000–$15,000 total, depending on the provider
Why It’s Top: Fast-track, affordable entry into dental careers with strong local demand for dental assistants.
8. University of Minnesota Continuing Dental Education
The UMN School of Dentistry offers continuing education courses for licensed dental professionals. These programs expand skills and maintain licensure.
Programs Offered:
- Local Anesthesia Training
- Specialty Clinical Seminars
- Professional Development Courses
Fees: $300–$1,500 per course
Why It’s Top: Ideal for licensed professionals seeking to update skills, learn new techniques, or fulfill continuing education requirements.
9. Online & Hybrid Dental Programs
While not physically based in Minneapolis, many online dental hygiene completion programs and dental prerequisite programs serve local students.
Programs Offered:
- Dental Hygiene Completion Programs
- Oral Biology / Dental Prerequisite Programs
Fees & Tuition (Approximate): $10,000–$30,000+ depending on program length
Why It’s Top: Provides flexible learning opportunities for working professionals who want to continue education without commuting.
10. Other Regional Minnesota Dental Education Options
Nearby schools in the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota offer dental hygiene and therapy programs for students willing to commute.
Programs Offered:
- Dental Hygiene Associate/Bachelor’s
- Dental Therapy Programs
Fees & Tuition: Varies by school, typically public university rates (~$10,000+ yearly)
Why It’s Top: Strong alternative for students outside Minneapolis proper who want high-quality dental education without relocating far.
Comparison Table of Top Dental Schools & Programs in Minneapolis
| School / Program | Type | Credential Offered | Estimated Fee Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Minnesota School of Dentistry | Dental School | DDS, DDS Specialties, BSDH, MSDH | $220k–$400k (DDS) / varied hygiene |
| Herzing University – Minneapolis | Dental Hygiene/Assisting | BS Dental Hygiene, Assisting Certificate | $12k–$20k+ |
| Century College | Community College | AAS Dental Hygiene, Assisting | $7k–$17k+ |
| Normandale Community College | Community College | AS Dental Hygiene | $18.5k + supplies |
| Minneapolis Community & Tech College | Community College | Dental Assisting | $6k–$12k |
| Metropolitan State University | University | Dental Hygiene (BSDH) Completion | $15k–$18k+ |
| Local Dental Cert. Programs | Various | Dental Assisting | $6k–$15k |
| UMN Continuing Education | Continuing Ed | Courses | $300–$1,500+ |
| Online Dental Programs | Online | Hyg. Completion, Bio | $10k–$30k+ |
| Regional MN Dental Schools | Nearby | Hyg., Therapy | Varies |
Conclusion
Minneapolis offers a wide variety of dental education pathways for aspiring dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants.
- For future dentists, the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry is the premier choice with DDS and specialty programs.
- For dental hygienists and assistants, programs at Century College, Normandale Community College, and Herzing University provide affordable, career-ready training.
- Licensed professionals can continue learning through UMN’s Continuing Education or online programs.
With this comprehensive selection, Minneapolis is a top destination for anyone pursuing a career in dentistry.