Doctor of Science in Dentistry (DScD) in Applied Biomechanics with Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Prosthodontics
The combined Doctor of Science in Dentistry (DScD) in Applied Biomechanics and Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Prosthodontics is designed for dental professionals seeking advanced clinical training alongside an intensive research-based doctoral education. This 60-month combined program provides candidates with the expertise necessary to excel in clinical practice while contributing to cutting-edge research in biomechanics and prosthodontics.
The program delivers comprehensive training in the biomechanics of biomaterials and biological structures, with a strong emphasis on dental restorations, implant biomechanics, and craniofacial engineering. It is ideal for professionals aspiring to lead research initiatives, drive innovation in prosthetic dentistry, and pursue careers in academia, industry, or public health services. By integrating engineering principles into restorative dentistry, the DScD in Applied Biomechanics enables practitioners to apply evidence-based decisionmaking, computational modeling, and experimental research methods to optimize prosthetic treatment outcomes.
The CAGS in Prosthodontics component of the program develops clinical proficiency in diagnosing, planning, and treating patients with missing or damaged teeth and orofacial defects. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including complete dentures, removable partial dentures, fixed prosthodontics, implant dentistry (including surgical procedures), geriatrics, temporomandibular disorders, and maxillofacial prosthodontics. Emphasis is placed on maintaining periodontal health and integrating supportive therapy from other dental specialties to achieve comprehensive patient care.
Interdisciplinary collaboration is a core element of the program, with students participating in joint seminars and coordinated treatment planning across various dental disciplines. The program’s focus on evidence-based healthcare is reinforced through intensive literature review seminars and critical analysis of dental research, preparing students to stay informed of advancements in the field.
The combined DScD/CAGS program adheres to the standards established by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) for advanced prosthodontic education. Graduates will be well-prepared to pursue board certification through the American Board of Prosthodontics (ABP) and establish themselves as leaders in prosthetic dentistry, dental biomaterials, and biomechanics research.
In addition to fulfilling the CAGS in Prosthodontics requirements, the DScD in Applied Biomechanics curriculum incorporates advanced coursework in research methodologies, computational biomechanics, and dental material sciences. The structured doctoral training ensures that graduates are equipped to contribute to the advancement of prosthodontic care, mentor future professionals, and lead interdisciplinary research in applied biomechanics.
Requirements
As a multidisciplinary program, introductory lectures will be provided to all students enrolling in the DScD, ensuring that they are well-prepared in subject-specific skills and academic areas essential to the program.
Curriculum
Students enrolled in the combined program must satisfactorily complete the requirements for both the Doctor of Science in Dentistry (DScD) in Applied Biomechanics and the Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Prosthodontics.
The total full-time commitment for the DScD/CAGS is a minimum of 60 months. Both the Doctor of Science in Dentistry (DScD) in Applied Biomechanics and the Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) are awarded.
Completion is not tracked by unit accumulation but by successful completion of individual courses and duration requirements.
