BS in Biology: Pre-Dentistry Emphasis

Q: What does pre-dentistry mean?

Pre-dentistry is intended to prepare students to apply to a dental school with the goal of becoming a dentist. Dental preparation programs are typically offered at the undergraduate level. While the exact courses and curriculum can vary from one school to the next, this emphasis is generally designed to meet the common admission requirements for dental schools.

Q: Is a biology degree good for pre-dental?

Yes. A biology degree can help you meet many dental school prerequisites and build a strong science foundation. For the most focused preparation, choose a program designed for a path toward dentistry, like GCU’s BS in Biology: Pre-Dentistry emphasis.

Q: Can I become a dental hygienist with a pre-dentistry emphasis?

Dental hygienists need an associate or bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene,9 which includes clinical and lab training specific to patient care. A dental preparation emphasis is designed to prepare students for dental school.

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Degree Level

Bachelor's

Class Setting

Campus

Area of Study

Healthcare

Program

BS in Biology: Pre-Dentistry

Current Education Level

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Country

United States

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Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Dentistry at Grand Canyon University is designed for students who want to pursue a career in dentistry. This program provides a strong foundation in biological sciences while focusing on the knowledge and skills needed for dental school and related graduate programs. If you’re passionate about science and committed to becoming a dentist, this degree can help you prepare for the academic and professional rigors of dental school.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Our on-campus biology and pre-dentistry courses go beyond theory, covering the essential science concepts featured on the Dental Admission Test (DAT) and other graduate entrance exams. Through hands-on labs and interactive learning experiences, you’ll work toward building the knowledge, technical skills and academic confidence to contribute to the field of dentistry with a strong biological foundation.

Bachelor of Science in Biology with an Emphasis in Pre-Dentistry

Offered By

College of Natural Sciences

Class Settings

Campus

Tuition Rate

Campus: $8,250 per semester [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Campus: 15 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Focus on Foundational Knowledge in Science and Healthcare

This biology program with a dentistry emphasis offers a foundation in biology, chemistry and health sciences, helping to meet the prerequisites for dental school.^{(See disclaimer 1)} Courses integrate faith-based principles, emphasizing ethical decision-making and servant leadership. As a College of Natural Sciences student, you’ll join a learning community committed to preparing graduates who lead with professionalism and purpose.

Coursework

Biology and Health Science Courses for Future Dental Professionals

This biology program with a dentistry focus covers core topics like anatomy, physiology, genetics and lab techniques to build a strong scientific foundation. You’ll gain hands-on experience and mentorship from faculty as you prepare for the DAT, dental school or other advanced biology-related programs.

The coursework in this degree covers five different domains.

Science foundations

Study fundamental science coursework in areas such as biochemistry, microbiology, general biology and human anatomy and physiology. These core competencies are essential for pursuing further education at dental school.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Scientific communication

Discover effective communication strategies for conveying scientific information that is tailored for different audiences. Prepare to collaborate effectively with dental professionals and other individuals within clinical settings.

Professionalism and ethics

Emphasize the importance of adhering to strict standards of professionalism and ethics within healthcare professions. You will explore ethical standards and strategies for maintaining professional integrity when confronted with contemporary dilemmas in oral healthcare.

Data analysis and interpretation

Examine probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and hypothesis testing to build the skills needed for data-driven healthcare decisions.

Comprehensive biology and pre-dental concepts

Explore dental preparation concepts, such as biological diversification, the functions and homeostasis of bodily systems and molecular change. Students can prepare to pursue further education at dental school.

Complete Prerequisites Needed for Dental School Applications

Our courses build a strong base in biology, chemistry, physics and health sciences — key areas for dental school prerequisites. Many dental schools also expect coursework in English composition, psychology and ethics, so it’s important to review the specific requirements of your target schools.^{(See disclaimer 1)} Alongside science courses, you can benefit from a well-rounded liberal arts education that strengthens communication skills and broadens your understanding of health and wellness.

Typically, most dental schools require applicants to successfully complete at least two semesters of:^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Biology

General chemistry

Organic chemistry

Physics

Additional Biology Emphasis Options

Discover additional emphasis options that can help you find the right path for your academic and career aspirations.

Pre-Physician Assistant

BS in Biology

Pre-Veterinary Medicine

Careers

Career Options in Pre-Dentistry Biology

This biology degree with an emphasis in pre-dentistry is designed to help you prepare for dental school or to pursue an entry-level career in a dental- or science-related field. With additional education and clinical training, dental professionals may choose to expand their expertise beyond general practice into specialized areas that serve diverse patient needs.

Areas of dentistry you may choose to explore include:^{(See disclaimer 2)}

General dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry

Oral pathology

Endodontics

Periodontics

Pediatric dentistry

12% tech growth

Increased use of modern tech, such as 3D printing, AI and digital tools in dental practices as of 2023^{(See disclaimer 3)}

Self-employed

12% of dentists are self-employed in 2024^{(See disclaimer 4)}

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Browse common questions that others are asking about a degree in biology: pre-dental emphasis to help you make an informed decision for your future.

What does pre-dentistry mean?

How can I prepare for dental school as a pre-dental student?

The first step to pursuing dental school is completing your bachelor’s degree. According to the American Dental Education Association (ADEA), some other strategies for preparing for dental school include:^{(See disclaimer 6)}

Seek out job shadowing opportunities
Understand academic requirements for application acceptance
Research various schools and programs
Complete a variety of experiences in the dental profession, in community service and in research

What do pre-dental students major in as undergraduates?

There’s no single required major for dental school admission, giving you some flexibility in your undergraduate studies. Most schools prefer applicants with a strong science background and completed prerequisite courses.^{(See disclaimer 7)} Biology is a popular option for dental school readiness, as is chemistry. Other options may include physics or biomedical engineering.^{(See disclaimer 8)} A degree with a dental concentration may be the most relevant option for preparing to apply to dental school, as it will likely include the necessary prerequisite courses.

Is a biology degree good for pre-dental?

Can I become a dental hygienist with a pre-dentistry emphasis?

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major80 credits

Open Elective Credits0-6 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University's General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

9-12 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

11-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to use various analytic and problem-solving skills to examine, evaluate, and/or challenge ideas and arguments (mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, physical geography, ecology, economics, theology, logic, philosophy, technology, statistics, accounting, etc.). Students are required to take 3 credits of intermediate algebra or higher.

Competency

6-8 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Required General Education Courses

MAT-154

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is designed to prepare learners to integrate fundamental mathematical concepts with the critical and quantitative thinking needed to solve workplace-related problems. The course is founded upon a functional and technological approach to algebra. Topics include functions and their graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions; algebraic and exponential equations; and probability. Emphasis is placed on developing students’ understanding of mathematical representation and logical reasoning to solve real-world problems. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-110.

ENG-107

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is an introduction to technical and scientific writing in fields such as engineering, biology, computer science, and other STEM disciplines, and provides students with a background in logic and communication. In accordance with the Council of Writing Program Administrators Outcomes Statement and the Elon Statement on Learning Transfer, this course provides practice with a variety of scientific genres of communication, including their expected writing styles and structures. This course supports students in the ability to transfer knowledge of writing across technical and scientific disciplines and adapt to new and different writing tasks throughout their careers in the sciences.

MAT-261

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course presents the fundamentals of algebra and trigonometry with some applications; it provides the background and introduction for the study of calculus. Topics include review of linear equations and inequalities in one and multiple variables; functions and their graphs; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; systems of equations and matrices; and sequences and series. Slope and rate of change are introduced to set up the concepts of limits and derivatives. There is an emphasis on both an understanding of the mathematical concepts involved as well as their applications to the principles and real-world problems encountered in science and engineering. Technology is utilized to facilitate problem analysis and graphing. Prerequisite: MAT-134 or MAT-154.

MAT-274

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course provides an introduction to the study of basic probability, descriptive and inferential statistics, and decision making. Emphasis is placed on measures of central tendency and dispersion, correlation, regression, discrete and continuous probability distributions, quality control population parameter estimation, and hypothesis testing. Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in MAT-134, MAT-144 or MAT-154.

PSY-362

4 Total Credits

Core Courses

BIO-181

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function, particularly at the molecular and cellular levels of organization. Cell components and their duties are investigated, as well as the locations of cellular functions within the cell. The importance of the membrane is studied, particularly its roles in controlling movement of ions and molecules and in energy production. The effect of genetic information on the cell is followed through the pathway from DNA to RNA to protein. Co-requisite: BIO-181L.

BIO-181L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This lab course is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-181 through experiments and activities which complement and enhance understanding of macromolecules, cell membrane properties, cellular components, and their contribution to cell structure and function. Assignments are designed to relate cellular processes such as metabolism, cell division, and the flow of genetic information to cell structure. Co-requisite: BIO-181.

SCI-150

4 Total Credits

BIO-215

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course, designed for Science majors, introduces the principles of microbiology and the study of the general characteristics, growth, and diversity of microorganisms. Topics include microbial cell structure and function, bacterial genetics, immune response and immunization, physical and chemical control of microorganisms, specific characteristics and mechanisms of antimicrobial medications, and microbial diseases with emphasis on pathogenesis, epidemiology and treatment. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-215L.

BIO-215L

1 Total Credits

CHM-113

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the first course of a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. The course assumes no prior knowledge of chemistry and begins with basic concepts. Topics include an introduction to the scientific method, dimensional analysis, atomic structure, nomenclature, stoichiometry and chemical reactions, the gas laws, thermodynamics, chemical bonding, and properties of solutions. Co-Requisite: CHM-113L.

CHM-113L

1 Total Credits

BIO-210

3 Total Credits

BIO-210L

1 Total Credits

PHY-111

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of basic concepts of physics, including motion; forces; energy; the properties of solids, liquids, and gases; and heat and thermodynamics. The mathematics used includes algebra, trigonometry, and vector analysis. A primary course goal is to build a functional knowledge that allows students to more fully understand the physical world and to apply that understanding to other areas of the natural and mathematical sciences. Conceptual, visual, graphical, and mathematical models of physical phenomena are stressed. Students build critical thinking skills by engaging in individual and group problem-solving sessions. Prerequisite: MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: PHY-111L.

PHY-111L

1 Total Credits

BIO-182

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a study of biological concepts emphasizing the interplay of structure and function at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels of organization. Relationships of different life forms are studied, noting characteristics and general lifecycles of the different types of organisms, including bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. Plant structure, function, and reproduction are studied, as well as photosynthesis and plant nutrition. Ecological principles are discussed, including organism interactions at the various ecological levels. Principles of conservation are introduced. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-182L.

BIO-182L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This lab is designed to reinforce principles learned in BIO-182. Organisms are examined to recognize similarities and differences among different types. Plant structure and processes, including photosynthesis and water transport, are investigated through observation and activities. Concepts of ecology are explored through study of species interactions projects and other activities. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L. Co-Requisite: BIO-182.

CHM-115

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This is the second course in a two-semester introduction to chemistry intended for undergraduates pursuing careers in the health professions and others desiring a firm foundation in chemistry. Upon successful completion of this course, students are able to demonstrate knowledge and/or skill in solving problems involving the principles of chemical kinetics, chemical equilibrium, and thermodynamics; understanding chemical reactions using kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics; comparing and contrasting the principal theories of acids and bases; solving equilibrium involving acids, bases, and buffers; describing solubility equilibrium; describing terms associated with electrochemistry and solving problems associated with electrochemistry; and describing the fundamentals of nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: CHM-113 and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115L.

CHM-115L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-115 reinforces and expands learning of principles introduced in the lecture course. Experiments include determination of rate law, examples of Le Châtelier’s principle, the use of pH indicators, buffer preparation, experimental determination of thermodynamic quantities, the use of electrochemical cells, and qualitative and quantitative analysis. Prerequisites: CHM-113L and MAT-154 or higher. Co-Requisite: CHM-115.

BIO-211

3 Total Credits

BIO-211L

1 Total Credits

PHY-112

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is the second in a one-year introductory physics sequence. In this course, the basics of three areas in physics are covered, including electricity and magnetism, optics, and modern physics. Course topics include an introduction to electric and magnetic fields, the nature of light as an electromagnetic wave, geometric optics, quantum mechanics, and nuclear reactions. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112L.

PHY-112L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This course utilizes lab experimentation to practice concepts of physical principles introduced in the PHY-112 lecture course. Some of the topics learners understand and analyze involve the relationship between electric charges and insulators/conductors, magnetism in physics, energy transformations in electric circuits, the relationship between magnetism and electricity, and how they relate to the medical industry. Prerequisites: PHY-111 and PHY-111L. Co-Requisite: PHY-112.

CHM-231

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is the first of two organic chemistry courses. The first half of this course develops the vocabulary and concepts of chemical bonding, chemical structure, acid-base principles, and nomenclature needed to understand properties and reactions of organic compounds. The second half of this course discusses chemical reactions, including radical reactions, substitution and elimination reactions, and synthesis and reactions of alkenes. Students learn how to predict reaction products and draw reaction mechanisms. Organic synthesis and structural determination are also covered. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231L.

CHM-231L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-231 reinforces principles learned in the lecture course through various techniques that organic chemists use to synthesize compounds. Students use these techniques throughout the semester. These techniques include determination of melting point, determination of solubility, thin layer chromatography, recrystallization, and distillation. Structural determination using theories discussed in CHM-231 is applied to unknown compounds. Prerequisites: CHM-115 and CHM-115L. Co-requisite: CHM-231.

BIO-342

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This courses introduces students to biological change at multiple levels of life, including molecular, cellular, organismal, and population. Students will gain an understanding of the mechanisms of change and how they work, as well as the patterns that result by examining molecular and organismal data, geological time, fossil evidence, and the history of Earth and man. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L.

CHM-232

3 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is the second of two organic chemistry courses. The course is organized by common organic functional groups, including alkynes, alcohols, ether, aromatic compounds, ketones and aldehydes, amines, carboxylic acid, and carboxylic acid derivatives. The reactions and properties of each functional group are discussed. Students learn how to predict reaction products, draw reaction mechanisms, and predict physical properties. Instruction includes lecture and in-class problem solving. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-232L.

CHM-232L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

The laboratory section of CHM-232 supports and extends principles learned in the lecture course. Students carry out various organic syntheses using techniques taught in CHM-231. The experiments include preparation of an alkene from an alcohol, a Grignard reaction, preparation of cinnamaldehyde, nitration of methyl benzoate, synthesis of N-Methyl Prozac, an Aldol reaction, Benzimidazole synthesis, and a Diazonium coupling reaction. Prerequisites: CHM-231 and CHM-231L. Co-requisite: CHM-232.

BIO-457

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing intensive course provides a comprehensive examination of the principles of heredity and variation, including Mendelian, molecular, and population genetics. Students explore topics such as gene mapping, DNA structure and replication, population genetics, and molecular change. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L, and one of the following: BIO-205, BIO-215, BIO-333, BIO-339, or CHM-115.

CHM-360

3 Total Credits

Course Description

The course objective is to survey basic biochemical principles, including the composition, structure, and function of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. Important biochemical principles include structure-function correlation, chemical reactivity, kinetics and equilibrium, thermodynamics, membrane structure and function, and metabolic energy pathways. The application of biochemical concepts in the medical field is emphasized. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360L.

CHM-360L

1 Total Credits

Course Description

This laboratory course covers modern biochemical laboratory techniques and their theoretical foundations. Topics include methods for protein, nucleic acid, and lipid isolation and characterization; enzyme assays; chromatography; electrophoresis; and representing and manipulating proteins and nucleic acids. Experiments are designed for hands-on experimentation and students acquire practical techniques currently used in biochemistry laboratories. Prerequisite: BIO-181, BIO-181L, CHM-231, CHM-231L. Co-Requisite: CHM-360.

BIO-333

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is a comprehensive study of the composition, structure, energetics, regulation, and growth of eukaryotic cells. Other topics include the essential processes of cells including the correlation of structure and function at the organelle and cellular levels. As well as, principles of molecular biology including recombinant DNA technology and other approaches and method used to investigate cell structure, development, chromosome organization, gene expression, and gene regulation. Prerequisites: BIO-181 and BIO-181L, and one of the following combinations: BIO-205 and BIO-205L, BIO-215 and BIO-215L, or CHM-113 and CHM-113L.

BIO-343

4 Total Credits

BIO-330

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces the etiology, pathogenesis, morphology, and clinical manifestations associated with various altered health states and diseases. Students also learn basic principles of pharmacotherapeutics and major classes of drugs used to treat disease. Emphasis is on clinically relevant terminology required to support accurate and effective communication in the health information management field. Prerequisites: BIO-192 and BIO-192L, or BIO-202 and BIO-202L, or BIO-211 and BIO-211L.

BIO-470

4 Total Credits

SCI-495

4 Total Credits

Course Description

The capstone project is a culmination of the learning experiences while a student in the science programs at Grand Canyon University. Students discuss and write on current topics in their field and prepare an extensive written scientific report or proposal on select topics on the sciences, relevant to their program of study. The capstone project needs to reflect synthesis and integration of course content and good scientific practice. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: Senior status.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Gain the science foundation and specialized preparation you need with the Bachelor of Science in Biology: Pre-Dentistry emphasis at GCU.

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American Dental Education Association. (n.d.). Prerequisites. Retrieved October 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2020, March). Career Outlook: Dental Careers. Retrieved November 2025.
Mazda, J. (2023, Dec. 1). Trends in Dentistry 2023. Inside Dental Technology. Retrieved November 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). Dentists: Work Environment. Retrieved November 2025.
Learn.org. (n.d.). Pre-Dental Schools and Courses. Retrieved October 2025.
American Dental Education Association. (n.d.). Preparing For Dental School. Retrieved October 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). How to Become a Dentist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved October 2025.
Raymond, J. (2021, July 18). Pre-Dental Requirements: Courses You’ll Need for Dental School. CollegeVine. Retrieved October 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, Aug. 28). How To Become a Dental Hygienist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved October 2025.

BS in Biology: Pre-Dentistry Emphasis

Explore the Biological Principles Related to Oral Health

Focus on Foundational Knowledge in Science and Healthcare

Biology and Health Science Courses for Future Dental Professionals

Complete Prerequisites Needed for Dental School Applications

Additional Biology Emphasis Options

Career Options in Pre-Dentistry Biology

Pursue Pre-Dentistry Courses at an Accredited University

Frequently Asked Questions

Program Curriculum

General Education Requirements

Required General Education Courses

Core Courses