Biology D.E.A.P. (B.S.)
Prepare for dental school through a rigorous biology curriculum and an early admission pathway to the West Virginia University School of Dentistry.
Accelerate Your Path
to a Career in Dentistry
The Biology D.E.A.P. program is designed for motivated students who aspire to become dental professionals. Through challenging coursework, personalized advising, experiential learning opportunities, and a unique partnership with the WVU School of Dentistry, students gain a competitive advantage on their journey toward a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree.
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
- Total Credits: Approximately 120 credit hours
- Outcome: Preparation for dental school admission and careers in oral healthcare
- Format: On-campus
Program
Overview
The Biology D.E.A.P. program exists to prepare academically talented students for successful entry into dental school by providing comprehensive preparation in biological sciences, chemistry, physics, and related disciplines. Through West Liberty University’s partnership with the WVU School of Dentistry, qualified students may compete for early admission opportunities while completing their bachelor’s degree.
Who This
Program Is For
Aspiring Dentists
Students with a clear goal of earning a dental degree and pursuing careers in oral healthcare.
High-Achieving STEM Students
Students who excel in science and mathematics and are seeking a challenging academic pathway with professional school preparation.
Future Healthcare Professionals
Individuals interested in patient care, health sciences, and improving community health through preventive and restorative dental care.
Leadership-Oriented Students
Students seeking opportunities to demonstrate leadership, professionalism, service, and commitment while preparing for a competitive professional program.
What
You’ll Learn
Students develop a strong foundation in the biological and physical sciences while gaining the analytical, professional, and scientific skills necessary for dental school and healthcare careers. Graduates leave prepared for advanced study, professional examinations, and lifelong learning in the health professions.
Scientific Foundations
- Apply principles of biology, chemistry, and physics to health-related problems
- Understand cellular, molecular, and physiological systems
- Analyze biological processes relevant to human health
Research & Analytical Skills
- Design and evaluate scientific investigations
- Interpret laboratory and clinical data
- Apply evidence-based reasoning to scientific questions
Professional Preparation
- Develop professional communication and ethical decision-making skills
- Prepare for dental admissions testing and professional school applications
- Gain exposure to healthcare environments through observation and experiential learning
Curriculum
Overview
The curriculum combines foundational biology and chemistry coursework with advanced study in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, molecular biology, genetics, and research experiences. Students balance scientific theory, laboratory learning, professional preparation, and experiential opportunities that support dental school readiness.
Program Structure
Foundational Sciences
- Biological Principles
- General Chemistry I & II
- Pre-Calculus
- Physics I & II
Advanced Biological Sciences
- Cell & Molecular Biology
- Human Anatomy & Physiology I & II
- Genetics
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Molecular Biology
Professional Preparation
- Kaplan Test Preparation
- Research/Internship Experience
- Biology Capstone
Elective Specialization
- Nutrition
- Human Genetics
- Virology
- Pathogenesis
- Advanced Biological Sciences electives
Required Prerequisites Include:
- BIO 124 Biological Principles
- BIO 125 Biological Principles Lab
- CHEM 110/111 General Chemistry I & Lab
- CHEM 112/113 General Chemistry II & Lab
- MATH 145 Pre-Calculus
- PHYS 101/110 Physics I & Lab
- PHYS 102/111 Physics II & Lab
Admission Requirements
Students seeking participation in the D.E.A.P. pathway must meet elevated academic standards that demonstrate readiness for a professional dental education.
Career &
Outcomes
Graduates are prepared for dental school admission, advanced health professions education, biomedical research opportunities, and a variety of healthcare-related fields. The program develops the scientific knowledge, professionalism, and academic preparation required for competitive professional-school applications.
Examples of career pathways include:
- Dentist (following successful completion of a D.D.S. or D.M.D. program)
- Dental Specialist (Orthodontics, Oral Surgery, Periodontics, etc.)
- Biomedical Research Associate
- Clinical Research Coordinator
- Healthcare Laboratory Professional
- Public Health or Community Health Professional
Graduates benefit from rigorous preparation in the sciences, professional development opportunities, and a curriculum aligned with prerequisites commonly required by dental schools and other health professions programs.
Admission
Requirements
Admission to the D.E.A.P. pathway is competitive and selective. The admissions process helps identify students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance and are prepared for the rigor of professional dental education.
Requirements:
- Admission to West Liberty University
- Completion of at least 30 but no more than 75 credit hours
- Minimum overall GPA of 3.6
- Completion of required Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics coursework
- One Biology, one Chemistry, and one Mathematics core course during each freshman-year semester
- Completion of at least 10 documented hours observing in a general dental practice
- Participation in the D.E.A.P. application and interview process
- Commitment to ongoing program expectations and professional standards
Application Deadline:
Refer to the Department of Biological Sciences for current application cycles and deadlines.
Applicants are evaluated through a competitive review process that may include academic performance, prerequisite completion, professional experiences, and interviews. Admission is limited, with a maximum of two students admitted annually to the program.
Advisors are available to help students plan prerequisites and prepare strong applications.
Cost, Aid
& Affordability
West Liberty University is committed to delivering a high-quality professional education that remains accessible and affordable.
Students may be eligible for:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships
- Program-specific or need-based assistance
Financial aid counselors and academic advisors work closely with students to help them understand costs, explore funding options, and plan for their educational investment.
Steps to
Enrollment
- Apply to West Liberty University
- Declare the Biology: WLU/WVU D.E.A.P. (B.S.) program
- Work with a faculty advisor to complete required coursework and prepare a competitive D.E.A.P. application
- Submit your D.E.A.P. application and participate in the interview process
- Review the advising guide and prepare for enrollment in advanced coursework and experiential opportunities
Admissions counselors and program advisors are here to support you at every step.
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.