Welcoming its first cohort of four students, the University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences has launched the Rural Dental Scholars Program in partnership with The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Dentistry. The forward-looking program will help address the need for dental professionals in rural areas by providing a pathway for aspiring dentists from these communities.

“We believe that this program will be instrumental in improving access to oral health care for rural populations,” says Carly Timmons McKenzie, Ph.D., the School of Dentistry’s Assistant Dean for Admissions. “By targeting students from rural backgrounds who are passionate about making a difference, we have the opportunity to develop a new generation of dentists dedicated to serving these underserved areas.”

The students will pursue a master's degree in rural community health before attending the UAB School of Dentistry.