Program Overview

Orthodontics (MScD)

Overview

This programme will pave your way to becoming a specialist in orthodontics through extensive clinical and academic training. We're ranked 34th in the world for dentistry (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025) and in the top 4 in the UK for dentistry (The Complete University Guide 2025).

Duration and Mode

• Duration: 3 years
• Mode: Full time

Start Date

• 28 September 2026

Why Study This Course

This course is recognised for training purposes by the Royal Colleges for the Membership in Orthodontics of both Edinburgh and the Bicollegiate examination. You will receive clinical training from a range of orthodontists and join multidisciplinary joint clinics in the latter stages of your training.

Course Structure

This is a full-time, three-year course which covers three key elements:

1. Taught modules covering evidence-based topics, inspired by the recommendations of the World Federation of Orthodontists, European and national guidelines.
2. Hands-on supervised management of patients with dento-facial abnormalities in a supportive, clinical environment.
3. A research project on a topic of your choice, and preparation for a dissertation.

Year One

• OSCE (DEA001)
• Written and Oral Examinations (DEA002)
• RITA / Appraisal (DEA003)
• Research Review (DEA011)
• Clinical Examinations (DEA017)
• General Orthodontic (DEP015)

Year Two

• Written and Oral Examinations (DEA004)
• Written and Oral Examinations (DEA005)
• RITA / Appraisal (DEA006)
• Research Review (DEA012)
• Clinical Examinations (DEA018)
• Clinical Examinations (DEA019)
• Basic Orthodontic Subjects (DEP008)

Year Three

• Written and Oral Examinations (DEA007)
• RITA / Appraisal (DEA008)
• MScD Examinations (DEA009)
• Submission of Literature Review (DEA013)
• Defence of Literature Review (DEA014)
• Submission of Thesis (DEA015)
• Defence of Thesis (DEA016)
• Clinical Examinations (DEA020)
• General Orthodontic (DEP015)

Learning and Assessment

You will be taught via seminars, case reviews, and interactive clinical presentations. Assessments will include summative and formative evaluations throughout the programme, with research being assessed through a final dissertation in year three.

Tuition Fees

For Home Status

• Year one: £54,700
• Year two: £54,700
• Year three: £54,700

For Overseas Status

• Year one: £54,700
• Year two: £54,700
• Year three: £54,700

Funding

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. This includes Master's Scholarships, postgraduate loans, and an Alumni Discount for Cardiff University graduates.

Career Prospects

Graduates from this programme should be equipped to pursue careers in orthodontic specialisms. The programme provides valuable research experience alongside clinical training, preparing graduates for a long career as an orthodontist.

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for an offer, you must meet all entry requirements, including:

1. A primary dental qualification (BDS/DDS or equivalent).
2. An academic reference.
3. A clinical reference to evidence 2 years' full-time equivalent post-qualification experience.
4. An up-to-date CV.
5. Evidence of registration as a dental practitioner.
6. Evidence of passing MJDF/MFDS/FDS qualifications or an alternative post-graduate qualification.
7. A personal statement.

English language requirements include an IELTS score of 7.0 with 6.5 in all subskills or equivalent qualifications. The application deadline is 31 December each year for entry the following September.