Educating the practice-ready dentist

The mission of the University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry is to graduate competent beginning dentists in a humanistic environment. As the first American dental school to incorporate competency-based education, it takes very seriously the understanding that competency means having the skills, understanding, and supporting values to begin independent practice. Competency is defined by the demands of dental practice, not by what professors know. The university's mission statement is to "provide a superior, student-centered learning experience integrating liberal arts and professional education, and prepare individuals for lasting achievement and responsible leadership in their careers and communities".