Thanks to the dedication and contributions of team members and partners, Pacific Northwest University School of Dental Medicine (PNWU-SDM) is ready to accept applications for our inaugural Class of 2029. The SDM will accept up to 36 Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) students to begin in Fall 2025.
Accepting students for dental education requires initial accreditation by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Accreditation is a years-long process involving multiple site visits. CODA will conduct its second visit in early to mid-2027, followed by a final visit as the inaugural class is preparing to graduate in early 2029.
News of the initial accreditation was announced following CODA’s August 8 meeting. PNWU-SDM is now listed on the CODA website as the second dental school in the State of Washington with accreditation.
“Receiving this approval was a team effort – the SDM administrators, faculty and staff, our PNWU and FQHC partners, and our supporters all working together,” said Dr. Fotinos Panagakos, Founding Dean of PNWU-SDM. “On behalf of the SDM team – thank you!
‘“I want to pay special tribute and thanks to Dr. Michael Lawler,” added Dr. Panagakos. “Without his enthusiastic support and unwavering commitment, our program would not be possible.”
With this milestone achieved, the School of Dental Medicine can now embark on the admissions process for its inaugural class and continue the development of its innovative academic program.
Students interested in applying for PNWU-SDM can learn more about admission requirements on pnwu.edu.