The DDS Rural Dentistry Career Track prepares students for a successful career serving rural Minnesota.
About the track
The Rural Dentistry Career Track prepares students to provide access to care in rural Minnesota communities. Participants learn to deliver culturally competent care in rural communities and understand their unique features. Learning sessions provide insight into quality of life and rural population health.
Goals
- Develop skills that support clinical effectiveness and quality of life as a rural provider
- Understand the unique features of rural communities
- Prepare to work in interprofessional teams
- Deliver culturally appropriate care
Key track features
- Nine learning modules
- Coaching and mentoring from practicing and retired clinical dentists
- Near-peer mentoring
- Elective content to customize student learning
- Four-week rural clinical preceptorship in the fourth year
Topics covered
- Rural population health
- Student loan repayment opportunities
- Establishing a professional peer network
- Quality of life in the rural setting
- Rural teledentistry
- Leadership and management training
Customized learning with elective projects
- School-based oral health outreach
- Dental day at the Capitol
- Indian Health Services cultural competency course
Contact
Become a mentor
Researchers are needed to serve as mentors. Mentoring will consist of periodic emails and virtual meetings with your mentee, along with possible site visits. Group mentoring is an option. Mentor training and resources provided.