Program Overview

Introduction to the Craniofacial Fellowship Program

The Craniofacial Fellowship Program is a comprehensive training program designed to provide advanced clinical, didactic, and research training in the management of children with facial differences. The program is led by Dr. Manish Valiathan, a tenured Associate Professor with appointments in the Departments of Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, and Plastic Surgery.

Program Overview

The program is a 1-year fellowship that aims to train fellows to attain a level of competency that enables them to recognize, diagnose, and treat patients with craniofacial anomalies and special needs in a hospital-based, team care setting. Fellows will participate in craniofacial and cleft conferences, review treatment plans and progress notes, and provide clinical care to patients under direct supervision.

Program Structure

The program includes rotations with other services, such as plastic surgery, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and pediatric dentistry. Fellows will also be exposed to speech pathology, pediatric otolaryngology, genetics, and occupational therapy. The format of the program allows for constant one-on-one supervision, supplemented by weekly sessions with the faculty.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the program requires an MSD or equivalent degree from an accredited institution. Applicants must complete a PASS application and pay a non-refundable application fee of $145. International students must also take the TOEFL or IELTS and score above the minimum required scores.

Program Details

• Program Length: 12 months
• Admission Cycles: Two cycles available, January 1 - December 31 and July 1 - June 30
• Tuition: Approximately $5,798 per year, with a stipend available for eligible candidates
• Application Cycle: Mid-May through the first week of February

Assessment and Evaluation

Fellows will be assessed through written examinations at the end of each semester, as well as subjective assessments of their understanding of the subject matter, clinical skills, and patient management skills.

Current Fellows

The program currently has two fellows:

• Dr. Hanan Elayyan, Fellow July 2025-present
• Dr. Stefanos Matthaios, Fellow January 2025-present

Additional Requirements for International Students

International students must take the TOEFL or IELTS and score above the minimum required scores:

• TOEFL Paper-Based Test: 550
• TOEFL Computer-Based Test: 213
• TOEFL Internet-Based Test: 90
• IELTS Test: 6.5 The TOEFL identification number for Case Western Reserve University is 1105, and the Department code for the School of Dental Medicine is 38.