West Virginia University School of Dentistry

West Virginia University School of Dentistry Academics

4-year flexible. Clinical observation begins during the first semester of the second year. A transition to hands-on assisting assignments occurs in the second semester of the second year. Clinical experience begins during the summer of the second year. The fourth year provides an option of 4 basic tracts: basic biological science, general practice, rural practice tract, and a specific clinical tract. Students pursuing an approved tract must take at least 3 hours of electives each semester and must register for clinical courses. The track options enable the students to pursue areas of special interest, while continuing their development of clinical competency in all dental disciplines. This is attained by off-campus clinical rotations. The individualized programs for the fourth year are prepared in consultation with an adviser. It should be noted that the entire predoctoral curriculum is undergoing revision to assist students in the attainment of competencies that build upon one another and the performance of appropriate clinical care as early as possible in the curriculum. A team leader program has been initiated to ensure that students have the appropriate learning experiences to achieve competency and learn how to manage the needs of a family of patients. A 6-week community rural practice rotation is requried.