The University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine has developed a three-tiered program for providing current dental students with exposure to and training in academic dentistry. The Academic Career Track Area of Concentration (ACT ARCO) is a two-year program that dental students can complete while they are working toward their degree at Pitt. The program aims to provide a solution to the national shortage of dental faculty by equipping students with skills necessary for the three pillars of an academic career: teaching, scholarship and service by introducing them to clinical and classroom teaching, engaging them in research and developing their leadership skills. Recognizing that the two-year commitment is not for every student, we offer most of the courses as electives to all upper level dental students who can choose their enrollment based on their interest and level of commitment. An informal lunch hour discussion series is offered to all students who want to learn about academic dentistry as a career option.
Student Testimonials
Short testimonial from students participating in the program and courses.
Lunch Hour Discussion Series about Academic Dentistry
The University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine hosts informal lunch hour discussion series to all students and residents who want to learn about academic dentistry as a career option. See information about past and upcoming events here.
Courses à la carte: Elective Courses
Several elective courses (selectives) are offered at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine to third and fourth year pre-doctoral students interested developing skills in didactic and clinical teaching, leadership, educational administration and educational research.
Academic Career Track Area of Concentration – ACT ARCO
The Academic Career Track Area of Concentration (ACT ARCO) is a two-year program for students interested in pursuing a career in academic dentistry. The ACT ARCO program informs students about different career options and will also prepare them for a future role as a dental educator by providing hands-on training in the areas of teaching, scholarship, and leadership. The program also benefits future dentists, who will likely be involved in training more junior dentists and staff members in their practices as well as educating patients.