Program Overview

Introduction to the AEGD/MS Pathway Program

The Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Graduate Certificate and Master of Science in Biomedical Informatics (MS) Pathway Program is a collaborative effort between the McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics and the UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry. This innovative program allows students to concurrently earn both the Master of Science in Biomedical Informatics and a Graduate Certificate in General Dentistry.

Program Overview

The AEGD/MS pathway program is designed to equip dental professionals with critical skills in data analysis, health informatics, and evidence-based decision-making. By combining core clinical dental competencies with expertise in data management, analysis, and health information technology integration, graduates will be prepared to address complex challenges in public health and healthcare delivery. This program extends the impact of traditional dental practice, empowering students to engage in interdisciplinary healthcare initiatives that promote oral health, disease prevention, and modern care delivery models.

Curriculum

The AEGD/MS program requires a minimum of 39 semester credit hours to earn the MS, including the completion of a practicum experience in the field of biomedical informatics. The curriculum includes:

• 32 semester credit hours of McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics coursework
• 7 semester credit hours of UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry courses, which are approved for shared credit allocation and application to the McWilliams Master of Science in Biomedical Informatics

UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry Courses

The following courses are part of the program:

• DBPG 1001 – Conscious Sedation I – 1 SCH Elective Course
• DBPG 1081 – Oral Biomaterials I – 1 SCH Elective Course
• DBPG 1091 – Oral Biomaterials II – 1 SCH Elective Course
• DBPG 1920 – Applied Sciences II – 2 SCH Elective Course
• DBPG 1007 – Practice Management – 1 SCH Elective Course
• DBPG 8006A – Perio/Pros Tx Planning Conf – 1 SCH Elective Course

McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics Courses

The program curriculum for the MS degree includes the following required courses:

• BMI 5300: Introduction to Biomedical Informatics (3 SCH)
• BMI 5310: Foundations of Biomedical Information Sciences I (3 SCH)
• BMI 5311: Foundations of Biomedical Information Sciences II (3 SCH)
• BMI 5352: Statistical Methods
• BMI 6313: Scientific Writing in Healthcare (3 SCH)
• BMI 6002: Directed Study in Dental Informatics (2 SCH)
• BMI 6000: Practicum in Biomedical Informatics (3 SCH)

Elective Courses

Students must select four elective courses from McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics in their area of interest for a total of 12 SCH. The Office of Academic Affairs and the student's academic advisor can assist with creating an integrated schedule for program completion.

Conclusion

The AEGD/MS Pathway Program offers a unique opportunity for dental professionals to enhance their skills in biomedical informatics, preparing them for leadership roles in advancing healthcare delivery and public health initiatives. By fostering collaboration between dentistry and informatics professionals, this program drives innovation and systemic improvements in both dental and broader healthcare practices.