Dental education in Ghana has seen significant progress over the past few decades. With increasing awareness of oral health and the need for professional dental care, several universities and colleges have expanded their medical faculties to include dentistry. Below are the top 10 dental schools in Ghana, providing aspiring dentists with quality education and hands-on training.
Dental education in Ghana is primarily centred in Accra and Kumasi, with the University of Ghana Dental School and KNUST Dental School leading the way. However, with increasing demand for dental services, more universities are developing or planning dental programmes. These institutions not only equip students with technical skills but also foster critical thinking and ethics in healthcare.
Please note that only eight dental schools are accredited in Ghana: these are the first eight dental schools listed in this article. The Medical and Dental Council does not grant any form of registration to graduates from institutions that are not accredited by the Council and does not offer retrospective accreditation to any institution. As such, Kings and Queens Medical College in Akosombo is not accredited by the Medical and Dental Council to train professionals in the following fields: Doctors, Dentists, and Physician Assistants (including Medical, Oral Health, and Anaesthesia).
If you’re passionate about oral health and committed to serving your community, any of these top 10 institutions can provide a strong foundation for a successful career in dentistry.
Here are the Top 10 Best Dental Schools in Ghana:
- University of Ghana Dental School, Accra
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi
- University of Ghana Medical School, Accra
- University for Development Studies, Tamale
- University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast
- University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho
- Family Health University College, Accra
- Accra College of Medicine, Accra
- Pentecost University, Accra
- Garden City University College, Kumasi
1. University of Ghana Dental School (UGDS), Accra
The University of Ghana Dental School (UGDS), located in Accra, offers a six-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme. The school is affiliated with the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana’s largest and most advanced medical facility, giving students access to world-class clinical experience. The programme is designed to provide a solid foundation in both basic medical sciences and advanced dental practices, supported by state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment.
Students at UGDS benefit from access to clinical mentorship, international collaborations, and cutting-edge research initiatives. Admission is competitive and is based on WASSCE/SSSCE results in Core Mathematics, English, Integrated Science, and three relevant electives, including Chemistry, Physics, and Biology. The cutoff point for Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Ghana is 08.
Tuition for Ghanaian students ranges from GHS 6,000 to GHS 8,000 per academic year, while international students pay between USD 4,000 and USD 5,000. The programme equips students with both academic and clinical knowledge to prepare them for careers in general practice, oral surgery, and research.
2. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kumasi
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), located in Kumasi, runs a similar six-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme under its School of Medicine and Dentistry. The school has earned a reputation for innovation and practical training, offering students the opportunity to train in the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, one of Ghana’s premier referral hospitals.
KNUST emphasises research and innovation in dental sciences, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience. Applicants must have passed in Core Mathematics, English, Integrated Science, and electives in Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. The cutoff point for Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) (Fee-Paying Only) at KNUST is 06.
Students benefit from strong academic support, modern facilities, and a vibrant campus life. KNUST also engages students in community dental outreach, preparing them to meet the oral health needs of diverse populations.
Tuition fees for Ghanaian students are estimated at GHS 5,500 to GHS 7,000 annually, while international students pay between USD 4,000 and USD 5,500. KNUST’s dental programme is widely respected both locally and across West Africa.
3. University of Ghana Medical School (UGMS), Accra
The University of Ghana Medical School (UGMS), also located in Accra, does not run a standalone dental programme but collaborates closely with the Dental School. UGMS offers both the Regular Medical Programme and the Graduate Entry Medical Programme (GEMP), providing a robust foundation in the medical sciences.
While primarily focused on training medical doctors, UGMS provides pre-clinical education for dental students in their early years. Students benefit from shared access to modern labs, lecture halls, and the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital for clinical rotations and exposure.
Admission into the GEMP requires applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field with a minimum GPA of 2.5. The programme is structured to bridge graduates into clinical medicine efficiently, which can also prepare them for specialised paths in oral and maxillofacial surgery later on.
Tuition for graduate entry students ranges from GHS 10,000 to GHS 14,000 annually. The school is known for its rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, and legacy of producing highly qualified health professionals.
4. University for Development Studies (UDS), Tamale
The University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale currently offers only a medical programme through its School of Medicine and Health Sciences, with future plans to establish a dental programme. Nevertheless, students training in medicine benefit from strong exposure to community-based healthcare and public health practices.
The medical programme’s structure introduces students to early clinical exposure, research, and rural health interventions. Though it does not yet offer dentistry, the school’s infrastructure and training approach set a strong foundation for future dental training.
Admission requirements include credits in Core English, Mathematics, Integrated Science, and electives in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. The cutoff point for Medicine (MBCHB) at UDS is Aggregate 09.
Annual tuition fees for Ghanaian students range from GHS 5,000 to GHS 6,000. The UDS programme is especially beneficial for students interested in practising in underserved regions and gaining practical experience in diverse healthcare settings.
5. University of Cape Coast (UCC), School of Medical Sciences
The University of Cape Coast (UCC), through its School of Medical Sciences, offers both the Regular Medical Programme and the Graduate Entry Medical Programme. While it does not currently have a dental school, it provides one of the best medical science foundations in Ghana, and there are discussions around expanding into dentistry in the future.
Students at UCC benefit from high academic standards, research opportunities, and a supportive learning environment. The Graduate Entry Medical Programme targets students with a science-related bachelor’s degree, offering a fast-track route to clinical training.
Applicants must present strong academic results in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics for the regular programme, or hold a good science-related degree for the graduate entry route. Admission is highly competitive, with accepted aggregates usually under 10.
Tuition fees range from GHS 5,000 to GHS 7,000 per academic year. UCC continues to build its reputation as one of Ghana’s top medical education providers and is expected to be a major player in dental training when its programme is launched.
6. University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Ho
The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), located in Ho, currently offers a medical programme but is in the process of developing a dental programme to expand its health sciences portfolio. The university is known for its interdisciplinary training, combining public health, nursing, and medical education.
Students gain hands-on experience in community health initiatives and benefit from partnerships with hospitals and health agencies across the Volta Region. While no dental programme is currently active, the institution’s growth suggests it will soon offer specialised training in dentistry.
Applicants need to have strong grades in science subjects, including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, along with Core Math, English, and Integrated Science. The cutoff point for Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the UHAS is 08.
Tuition for local students ranges from GHS 4,500 to GHS 6,500 annually. UHAS is an ideal choice for students interested in a well-rounded health education with future opportunities in oral health once its dental programme is established.
7. Family Health University College, Accra
Family Health University College in Accra offers both the Regular Medical Programme and the Graduate Entry Medical Programme. While it does not have a dedicated dental programme, its medical curriculum provides a strong foundation for students who may later specialise in oral or maxillofacial surgery.
The institution is Ghana’s premier private medical university and prides itself on modern facilities, small class sizes, and personalised instruction. Students train with state-of-the-art equipment and benefit from a curriculum aligned with national and international medical standards.
Admission requires strong science-based WASSCE results or a bachelor’s degree in a science-related discipline for graduate entry. The university prioritises quality over quantity and offers a more intimate educational setting compared to larger public institutions.
Tuition ranges between GHS 12,000 and GHS 15,000 per academic year. Family Health University College is ideal for students seeking private medical training with the potential for postgraduate dental specialisation.
8. Accra College of Medicine (ACM)
Accra College of Medicine (ACM), also based in Accra, currently offers a Medical Degree (MBChB) but does not yet have a separate dental programme. However, its curriculum is designed to be flexible and comprehensive, making it a viable starting point for future dental specialists.
The college partners with various hospitals for clinical training and emphasises student-centred learning. Its urban location makes it ideal for students who want access to Accra’s healthcare infrastructure and professional opportunities.
Admission is open to WASSCE candidates with strong science subjects or graduates with relevant backgrounds. High scores in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are essential, and the school typically interviews candidates as part of the admission process.
Tuition for the medical programme ranges between GHS 15,000 and GHS 18,000 per year. ACM continues to grow and may expand into dental education in the future, making it a notable institution to watch.
9. Pentecost University – Department of Health and Allied Sciences
Pentecost University is emerging as a strong contender in healthcare education and plans to introduce a Bachelor of Dental Surgery programme in collaboration with Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Though this programme is still pending accreditation, it represents a significant development in Ghana’s private dental education sector.
The university is known for instilling Christian values and professionalism in its graduates. It offers a supportive learning environment with a growing health sciences infrastructure and strong academic leadership.
Prospective dental students will need to have good WASSCE results in science subjects, with a likely minimum aggregate of 12 or better. Pentecost University may also consider holistic assessments, including interviews and character references.
Projected tuition fees are between GHS 8,000 and GHS 10,000 annually. Once launched, the dental programme will offer an alternative for students who prefer faith-based education with access to top-tier clinical facilities.
10. Garden City University College (GCUC), Kumasi
Garden City University College (GCUC), located in Kumasi, is also planning to introduce a Dental and Oral Health Programme through its health sciences faculty. Though not yet active, the proposed programme reflects the growing demand for dental education in the Ashanti Region.
The university offers a range of allied health programmes and provides students with practical experience through partnerships with healthcare providers in Kumasi. The dental programme is expected to integrate both academic and clinical components upon launch.
Applicants will be required to present strong results in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, and may also undergo interviews or entrance assessments. The programme will likely be competitive and geared toward producing competent and ethical dental practitioners.
Projected tuition is estimated at GHS 7,000 to GHS 9,000 per year. GCUC’s investment in dental education will offer another much-needed pathway for students in central Ghana to pursue careers in dentistry.
