The Bachelor of Science in Dental Laboratory Sciences degree program is an integrated program that combines general education, basic sciences, laboratory management operations, technical production, and dental sciences and technology.  Depending on their background, interests, and career goals, students have a choice of three tracks in completing the degree program: 

The Theory and Practice Track addresses state of the art technologies in the dental industry. The role of the den­tal technician as a member of the dental health team is changing. The science and technology of dental labo­ratory dentistry are in constant change. Dentists have become more dependent on the dental laboratory for advice concerning patient treatment planning. In addi­tion to changes in science and technology, dentists and laboratories are placing a great deal more emphasis on business management.

The Laboratory Operations Track blends laboratory pro­duction with sound business management principles. This track reinforces the student’s understanding and knowledge of laboratory business operations as prac­ticed in the most successful dental laboratories. Specifi­cally, it challenges the student’s abilities in analytical reasoning and problem solving in the extremely com­petitive dental business environment. Courses include workshops, guest lectures, field trips, individual visits and evaluations of management strategies practiced by various types of dental clinic and laboratory operations.

The Advanced Technology Applications Track focuses on the sci­ence and technology of dentistry. Recent innovations in clinical and laboratory dentistry involve the applica­tion CAD-CAM, laser, digital imagining, robotic, and computer technology and science. Emerging needs in the clinic and laboratory require scientists and tech­nologists with backgrounds that can be applied to these innovations.

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE – Theory and Practice Track and Laboratory Operations Track

• Completion of the Texas Core Curriculum with a grade of C or better (42 semester credit hours).
• Completion of BUSI 1302 Business Principles, or equiva­lent, with a grade of C or better (3 semester credit hours)
• Background in dental laboratory technology (See details below for further information about this requirement.)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – International applicants only: minimum scores 560 (paper), 220 (computer-based), 68 (Internet-based)
• Completed application (Click here for Texas Common Application)
• $45 application fee

Background in Dental Laboratory Technology – This require­ment may be met by completing at least 45 semester credit hours of coursework in dental laboratory technology with grades of C or better at a nationally-accredited, two-year cer­tificate or associate degree program in dental laboratory tech­nology.  The curriculum must cover the professional areas of:

• Dental sciences, i.e., tooth morphology, dental materials, oral anatomy, and occlusion
• Complete denture prosthodontics
• Fixed restorative prosthodontics (crown & bridge and ceramics)
• Removable partial denture prosthodontics
• Blood-borne infectious diseases
• Knowledge of the dental laboratory profession
• Orthodontic appliances
• Ethics and jurisprudence
• Dental laboratory techniques and practices
• Practical dental laboratory experience

If admitted to the Bachelor of Science program, students who have not earned 45 semester credit hours of dental laboratory technology prior to matriculating must earn the required num­ber of credit hours by completing additional courses offered by the Department of Dental Laboratory Sciences.

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE – Advanced Technology Applications

• Completion of the Texas Core Curriculum with a grade of C or better (42 semester credit hours
• Completion of at least 30 semester credit hours in one of the following:  basic sciences, mathematics, engineering, or computer science with grades of C or better from a regionally-accredited college or university; these courses are in addition to Texas Core Curriculum requirements
• Completion of college-level courses in English composi­tion, algebra, and statistics from a regionally-accredited college or university with grades of C or better
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) – International applicants only: minimum scores 560 (paper), 220 (computer-based), 68 (Internet-based)
• Completed application (Click here for Texas Common Application)
• $45 application fee