DMD Curriculum

The Harvard School of Dental Medicine offers DMD candidates an unparalleled opportunity to
draw on the resources of a world-renowned University and medical center in the education of its
dental students. At its heart, the program considers dentistry a partner to medicine. A solid
understanding of the basics of human disease mechanisms shapes the foundation of the program.
In an environment of excellence, shared with Medical School classmates during the first year of
education, students gain an appreciation of the human mind, body, and spirit. The opportunity to
learn firsthand the importance of the doctor-patient relationship, and the chance to participate in
research, results in a deep understanding of the connection between oral health and general
health.
The curriculum is presented in a team-based and case-based learning format that fosters the
development of independent learning, critical thinking, and the lifelong learning skills important
to health-care professionals. Courses include lectures, laboratory work, and small-group tutorials,
creating a collaborative learning environment in which students are stimulated and challenged to
learn, think, and apply their knowledge of science in new ways.
In Year 1, students study the preclinical sciences together with their peers at Harvard Medical
School. Clinical observation also begins in Year 1. Foundational dental courses begin in Year 2
and provide the basics of all phases of dentistry. Patient care, beginning in Year 3, is conducted
in the Teaching Practice of the Harvard Dental Center. The problem-based format continues the
interdisciplinary and collaborative approach of the preclinical courses. With students organized
in unique mentored treatment teams, Year 3 emphasizes individualized instruction,
comprehensive care, and respect for the challenge of pairing science with patient care. In Year 4
this multifaceted educational experience is enhanced as students provide patient care at affiliated
institutions, treating patients with varying needs and levels of general health. Additional
curricular options provide elective opportunities to augment educational and career goals.
The Harvard School of Dental Medicine has achieved success in its mission of producing leaders
in the field of dental medicine in clinical care, teaching, and research by being educationally
innovative and by providing a professional-school education without equal.