Master of Dental Science Certificate Program

Program Overview

The Master of Dental Science Certificate Program at NSU provides a comprehensive foundation in advanced human biological science for aspiring dentists. Through a combination of videoconferencing, lecture capture, and onsite lectures, the program covers essential subjects like anatomy, physiology, and dental biochemistry, preparing students for the rigors of dental school and enhancing their competitiveness for admissions. The program's unique integration with the first-year dental class offers firsthand exposure to the dental school environment and networking opportunities. Graduates have a proven track record of success in dental school and beyond, pursuing careers as general dentists, specialists, researchers, or educators.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Master of Dental Science Certificate Program at NSU is designed to provide aspiring dentists with a solid foundation in advanced human biological science.
It aims to enhance students' competitiveness for dental school admissions and prepare them effectively for the rigors of dental education.
• Objectives: The program specifically focuses on developing students' knowledge and skills in various areas, such as anatomy, physiology, neuroanatomy, immunology, dental biochemistry, and nutrition.
It also exposes students to a dental school environment by enrolling them alongside first-year dental students.
• Program Description: The one-year certificate program consists of 22 credit hours, including core required courses such as anatomy lecture/lab, histology, dental microbiology, dental biochemistry & nutrition, dental immunology, physiology, and neuroanatomy lecture/lab.
The program is delivered through a combination of videoconferencing, lecture capture, and onsite lectures at NSU's Ft. Lauderdale/Davie campus, allowing for flexibility and convenience.

Outline:

• Content and Structure: The program's curriculum covers a comprehensive range of subjects essential for dental school preparation.
It begins with fundamental disciplines like anatomy and histology, progressing to more specialized areas such as dental microbiology, biochemistry, immunology, physiology, and neuroanatomy.
• Course Schedule: The program is structured into two semesters.
The fall semester focuses on anatomy lecture/lab, histology, dental microbiology, and dental biochemistry & nutrition, while the winter semester covers dental immunology, physiology, and neuroanatomy lecture/lab.
• Individual Modules: Each module in the program is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills in a specific area.
For instance, the anatomy module involves both lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions, allowing students to study human anatomy in detail.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: The program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student performance, including exams, quizzes, assignments, and presentations.
• Assessment Criteria: The program's assessment is based on a holistic approach, considering students' understanding of concepts, critical thinking abilities, and ability to apply knowledge to practical scenarios.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program employs diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles.
These include lectures, interactive discussions, hands-on laboratory sessions, and self-directed learning.
• Faculty: The program's faculty comprises experienced professionals and experts in their respective fields.
They provide guidance, mentorship, and support to students throughout the program.
• Unique Approaches: The program offers a unique approach by integrating students with the first-year dental class, providing them with firsthand exposure to the dental school environment and opportunities to network with peers.

Careers:

• Career Paths: The completion of the program opens doors to various career paths in the dental field.
Graduates can pursue careers as general dentists, specialists in areas like orthodontics or periodontics, dental researchers, or educators.
• Opportunities: The program enhances students' competitiveness for admission to dental schools, increasing their chances of securing a seat in their preferred institution.
• Outcomes: Graduates of the program have a proven track record of success in dental school and beyond, contributing to the dental profession as skilled and knowledgeable practitioners.