Early Acceptance Program Between Viterbo University and the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) School of Dental Medicine
This agreement is a unique partnership between the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) and Viterbo University that provides a direct route for full-time Viterbo students to gain direct admission into the Doctor of Dental Medicine program at LECOM at the Bradenton, Fla. campus.
The Early Acceptance Program (EAP) is designed to facilitate the admission of Viterbo students into LECOM’s School of Dental Medicine.
Early Acceptance Program Doctor of Dental Medicine Program
The EAP is comprised of two phases. Phase I consists of four years of undergraduate education at Viterbo. Phase II consists of four years of dental school education at LECOM and its associated clinical training sites.
A student interested in the EAP may apply to enroll as part of their application to Viterbo University but must be enrolled in the program and interviewed prior to starting their third year of study at Viterbo University.
General requirements for early admission
- Major in biology
- Earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.4 in all courses taken at Viterbo
- Earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.2 in all science courses taken at Viterbo
- Earn a C or better in all courses taken at Viterbo
- Successful interview with LECOM admissions personnel while enrolled at Viterbo
- Satisfy all remaining requirements outlined by the Viterbo Pre-health Committee and LECOM admissions
About Dentistry
From the Viterbo University Pre-Health Advising handbook:
Dentistry is devoted to maintaining the health of the teeth, gums, and other hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity. Most dentists engage in general practice, bringing skills in oral diagnosis, prevention, and rehabilitation directly to the patient. Students completing a dental program earn one of two equivalent degrees: Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.). The majority of dentists begin practice immediately after the four-year dental program, although some pursue one year or more of post-graduate study. There is a predicted dentist shortage in Wisconsin and most students can take over a practice or join an established practice immediately on graduation. Typical admissions averages: mean overall GPA: ~3.5; mean science GPA: ~3.3. Dental schools require the DAT for admission. Generally, the mean score of accepted applicants is about 20 on the DAT. The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that the dental profession will grow by 19% from 2016–2026. Updated job outlook data can be found at the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Information about dental schools is available at the American Dental Education Association.