Dental Explorers Program

The one-week in-person USC Dental Explorers Program (DEP) offers an exciting learning opportunity for exceptionally motivated undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students.  The goal of this program is to assist in the development of a diverse pool of future professionals by introducing talented students, especially those from historically underrepresented, low socioeconomic and/or disadvantaged backgrounds to the dental profession. Priority consideration is given to college freshman, sophomores and juniors.

The curriculum includes team building exercises, clinic shadowing experiences, a variety of hands-on clinical exercises and lectures on topical dentistry issues. All participants are expected to attend all sessions of the program and keep a daily journal of activities.

If accepted into the program, there will be a $50 fee to secure your spot.  No stipend is provided, and all participants are required to provide their own lodging, transportation and cover any parking fees and other personal costs.

Because the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC is a healthcare facility, all faculty, staff and students (including Dental Explorer participants) are required to agree and adhere to the school’s dress and behavior standards. These standards require a professional appearance and demeanor at all times. Non-complying participants will be dismissed from the program. Specific information regarding these standards will be provided upon acceptance.

The program will take place from Monday July 17, 2023 through Thursday July 20, 2023 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

The application cycle for the 2023 Dental Explorers Program has closed.