DScD in Esthetic, Digital, and Operative Dentistry

A limited number of candidates are accepted into this DScD program, which takes at least three years to complete in addition to the time commitment for the Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS) in Esthetic, Digital, and Operative Dentistry. Candidates must complete all basic science and clinical requirements for the CAGS program. The program also requires that candidates complete a major research effort related to esthetic, digital, and operative aspects of restorative dentistry. This research is usually conducted in conjunction with research faculty of the University.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will gain understanding and appreciation of the basic science of materials, analytical techniques, and research protocols required to critically analyze material processes, properties, and develop new materials and devices in craniofacial sciences.
• Students will be able to critically analyze the current literature and propose new experimentation to address various issues relative to craniofacial diseases and treatment.
• Students will be able to independently conduct a variety of advanced characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and chemical and surface analysis.
• Students will be able to design a comprehensive proposal to investigate a specific hypothesis, conduct appropriate experimentation, and use statistical analysis to discuss the data.
• Students will participate in weekly discussions of both their projects and the recent literature relevant to their topic.
• Students will present their research in at least two local, national, or international meetings during their research program.
• Students will submit and publish at least one manuscript in a refereed journal.
• Students will write and defend a dissertation based on the results of their project.
• Students will be able to work with and advise healthcare professionals to critically analyze new materials, equipment, and techniques for patient treatment.

DScD Curriculum

In addition to the basic science and clinical requirements for the CAGS in Esthetic, Digital, and Operative Dentistry program, the following is required:

• SDM OB 830 Research Writing
• SDM PH 803 Biostatistics
• SDM PR 830 Advanced Biomaterials
• SDM RS 991 Research: Restorative Sciences
• SDM RS 992 Research: Restorative Sciences
• SDM RS 993 Research: Restorative Sciences

Completion is not tracked by unit accumulation but by successful completion of individual courses and duration requirements.

These three years can be either before the CAGS or after the CAGS. This will be based on the recommendations of the chair of the department and the director of the program.

Other coursework may be assigned at the discretion of the research advisor and the department chair.

At the discretion of the program director and/or department chair, research students may participate in clinical activities during their research years.