Program Overview

Doctor of Science (DSc) in Oral Biology

Overview

This program is designated for students who wish to pursue an academic or research-oriented career. It is an advanced science degree program focusing on basic physical, biological, and clinical sciences relevant to the advancement of oral medicine. The research project is conducted with Oral Biology faculty in the Department of Translational Dental Medicine.

Program Structure

The DSc program is geared toward dentists who have previous educational experience in biological sciences; for these individuals, the doctor of science program may be combined with a clinical (CAGS) program. Candidates with nonclinical degrees (BS or MS) may also be accepted into the DSc program.

Research Requirements

Students are required to fully participate in the research activities of the advisor’s laboratory, learning experimental approaches by carrying out specific research protocols related to a dissertation project. In addition to learning appropriate techniques, students are taught how to devise research strategies to answer specific questions, relate the strategy to previous studies, develop testing protocols, and analyze the resulting data. Upon completion, students will be capable of writing a well-developed manuscript and grant application.

Duration and Enrollment

The Doctor of Science (DSc) in Oral Biology requires a minimum of 36 months of full-time enrollment. During the first year, in consultation with a faculty advisor, the student selects and participates in related didactic courses. Courses may be selected from courses offered by the Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine postdoctoral program or by other schools at Boston University. The second and third years are dedicated to conducting and completing research. In most cases, the program is designed so that it can be completed in three years.

Doctor of Science Curriculum

Didactic Requirements

• GMS BI 751 A1 Biochemistry/Cell Morphology
• SDM OB 763 Basic Processes in Oral Biology
• SDM OB 766 Oral Immunology & Microbiology
• SDM OB 850 Journal Club (Taken twice for credit throughout the program)

Research Requirements

• SDM OB 991 Research: Oral Biology
• SDM OB 992 Research: Oral Biology
• SDM OB 993 Research: Oral Biology
• SDM OB 994 Research: Oral Biology
• SDM OB 995 Research: Oral Biology

Completion Requirements

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

Accreditation

Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).