Program Overview

Introduction to the Dental Specialty Foundation Certificate Program

The Dental Specialty Foundation Certificate Program is a 12-month, full-time postdoctoral certificate program designed for domestic and international dental school graduates. The primary objective of this program is to provide additional experience to dentists who wish to enhance their knowledge and understanding of current educational and clinical approaches in dental specialty areas.

Program Objectives

The program aims to prepare domestic and internationally trained dentists with foundational knowledge, enabling them to seek further clinical specialty education or PhD training in the US.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes:

• Graduate course work with postgraduate dental students and residents
• Observation and participation in graduate clinics
• Active participation in a research project under the mentorship of a full-time faculty member The programs are structured to allow for personalized instruction.

Admissions

The dental school currently accepts applications for postdoctoral certificate students in the advanced dental education programs in:

• Endodontics
• Operative dentistry and biomaterials
• Periodontics
• Prosthodontics

Application Deadline

The application deadline is March 10/October 8, depending on the July 1/January 2 start date.

Admissions Requirements

All prospective students must hold a DDS, DMD, or equivalent degree from a dental school.

International Students

International applicants must be eligible for an appropriate visa to enter the United States. They are required to complete the International Student Supplemental Application Form and take the TOEFL exam with a minimum score of 90 on the internet-based test or the IELTS with a minimum score of 7.5.

Program Status

The certificate program is sponsored by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Adams School of Dentistry. Attendance and completion records are maintained by the Adams School of Dentistry and are listed on the UNC-Chapel Hill Registrar’s records.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition, fees, medical insurance, and costs for housing and living expenses are the responsibility of the extern. No financial assistance is available or provided by the University.

Application Requirements

The application requires:

• Three letters of recommendation
• Proof of English language proficiency
• Transcripts of all dental education completed
• Letter of interest
• Curriculum vitae
• Copy of a current dental license in the country of residence

Program Details

Completion of the program will prepare domestic and internationally trained dentists with foundational knowledge if the desire is to seek further clinical specialty education or PhD training in the US. The program is not considered in the United States as evidence of advanced study or recognition of specialty training.