Overview
Founded in 1878, Penn Dental Medicine was the first dental school in the United States to be affiliated with a university, establishing a model that transformed dental education from an apprenticeship trade into an academic, science-based profession. The school has a long history of research innovation, including major contributions to periodontology, oral biology, and craniofacial research, and it consistently ranks among the top dental schools nationally and globally. Its integration within an Ivy League research university gives students access to unparalleled interdisciplinary resources in medicine, biomedical science, and business.
At a Glance
| Type | Private Research |
| Location | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Founded | 1878 |
| Total students | 550 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 3:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 5% |
| Graduation rate | 97% |
| Average starting salary | $130,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $95,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $95,000 |
| Room & board | $20,000 |
| Average financial aid | $45,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 80% |
Admissions
| SAT range | N/A |
| ACT range | N/A |
| Average GPA | 3.70 |
| Regular deadline | October 1 (AADSAS) |
Top Programs
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
- Oral Biology PhD
- Orthodontics
- Periodontics
- Endodontics
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.