Program Overview

Program Overview

The Dental Materials Science MSc program at the University of Birmingham is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of key materials science principles and training skills for successful research and publication. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to push the boundaries of technology, contributing to groundbreaking materials and processes that help define the future of dental and biomaterials science.

Course Structure

The program will run over 12 months in full-time mode, with the option to undertake the program on a part-time basis. The course is divided into three semesters, with students undertaking three modules in each term, followed by a research project and dissertation.

Semester 1

In the first term, students will undertake three modules that provide a foundation in mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of dental materials and their application in clinical service. Specific areas of materials used in dentistry will also be covered, including polymer-based systems, 3D-printing technologies, ceramic systems, dental cements, and lining materials.

Semester 2

In the second term, students will undertake three modules that build on the knowledge gained in the first term, with a focus on emerging materials and related technologies.

Semester 3

In the third term, students will undertake a research project and dissertation, applying the knowledge and skills gained in the previous terms to a specific research question or topic.

Module Information

The program consists of six 20-credit modules and one 60-credit module, which will run separately and consecutively to allow for part-time study and logical progression and development of interrelated concepts and research skills. The modules are:

• Applied Polymer Science (20 credits, Semester 1)
• Biological Interactions of Materials (20 credits, Semester 2)
• Ceramic and Cement Systems (20 credits, Semester 1)
• Emerging Materials and Related Technologies (20 credits, Semester 2)
• Final Research Project (60 credits)
• Foundation in Biomaterials Research (20 credits, Semester 1)
• Metal and Metal Alloys (20 credits, Semester 2)

Teaching Staff

The program is taught by a team of experienced academics, including:

• Dr. Mohammed Abdul Hadis, Lecturer in Dental Materials Science
• Professor Will Palin, Professor in Biomedical Materials Science

Entry Requirements

To gain a place on the program, students will need to meet the general entry requirements, as well as those specific to the course. The entry requirements include:

• A 2:2 Honours degree (or equivalent) in Dental Surgery or other relevant qualification, including dental technology, biomedical, and materials science-related disciplines.
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, or equivalent qualification.

Fees and Scholarships

The University tuition fee covers the cost of tuition, supervision, assessment, and includes membership to the Guild of Students. The fees for the program are:

• £11,250 (full-time)
• £5,625 (part-time)

The University offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities, including the Birmingham Masters Scholarship, which awards £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Career Opportunities

Successfully completing the program will not only boost employability in dental practice but also give students a competitive edge when applying for postgraduate research degrees. Graduates will be poised for exciting career opportunities in top-tier dental practices and prestigious dental hospitals, paving the way for influential roles in the field of dental and biomaterials science.

Student Experience

At the University of Birmingham, students will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life. The University offers a range of accommodation options, exciting activities to get involved in outside of studies, as well as all the support and advice needed. The campus is a green and spacious place where the community comes together to learn, relax, and socialize.