Overview
Periodontics is the specialty of dentistry that encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth or their substitutes and the maintenance of the health, function and esthetics of these structures and tissues. Dentists interested in enhancing their knowledge and skill in the field of periodontology may choose to apply to the Advanced Education Program in Periodontology for training as a graduate student and resident. Our program is in full compliance with the ADA Commission for Dental Accreditation guidelines.
Depending on career goals, residents choose from three degree paths, all with a Certificate in Periodontology, ranging from three to six years in length: a three-year Master of Science with a thesis, a six-year PhD in Oral Biology or a related field or a four-year Master of Science in Clinical Research through the School of Public Health.
Program at a Glance
3-6
Years in program
MS, PhD
Degrees offered with certificate
3-4
Residents per year
Joining the Program
Apply
Applications must be submitted through the ADEA PASS System and the National Matching Service (MATCH) by August 1.
Each year, the Advanced Education Program in Periodontics begins on June 20. Two to three positions are available for Master of Science students, and one position is available for a PhD student.
A personal statement, including goals and future plans, as well as a diversity statement, are required as a part of your application.
We will contact prospective residents to schedule an interview by the end of September.
Learn more about our application requirements on our ADEA PASS program page.
Program Requirements
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Test scores |
ADA ADAT scores are accepted by not required. GRE, NBDE, INBDE scores are not required. |
| Transcripts | Must submit official dental school transcripts as well as unofficial undergraduate transcripts via ADEA PASS. |
| CV/Resume | Must submit a CV or resume to ADEA PASS. |
| Supplemental application | A supplemental application processing fee of $100 ($125 for international students) is required. |
| Dental licensing | Must have a Resident Dentist license by the start of the program. State dental license is not required. |
| Degree | Must have earned a DMD/DDS degree or equivalent. |
| Additional requirements | Must submit a personal statement and a diversity statement. |
| International applicants | Must report English proficiency score on ADEA PASS. International applicants who do not qualify for an exemption (see "Coursework" section of this website) must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Scores must be from the last 2 years. A TOEFL score must be equal to or greater than 102 or the IELTS score must be equal to or greater than 7.5. |
Curriculum
The curriculum for MS students is approximately 65% clinical, 15% didactic, 15% research and 5% teaching, while PhD students devote approximately 35% of their time to clinic, 35% to didactic and 35% to research. Clinical experience includes recognizing the etiologies of moderate to advanced periodontal disease and treating 75 to 100 cases.
Didactic portions consist of core courses and seminars taught by faculty of the School of Dentistry and Health Sciences.
A research project of the selected level, with authorship of a thesis that is acceptable to the Graduate School, is required. Students must also complete an oral examination covering the thesis project.
The Advanced Education Program in Periodontics operates a modern, well-equipped clinic located in the University of Minnesota’s Health Science Center. Clinical, research and office space is assigned to each student. The student to faculty ratio is 6 to 1 during clinic time.
Program Options
Earn a Certificate in Periodontology with:
- Master of Science and thesis (3 years)
- PhD in Oral Biology or a related field (6 years)
- Master of Science in Clinical Research through the School of Public Health (4 years)
Contact the Advanced Education Program in Periodontics
Advanced Education Program in Periodontics Director
Daniel Skaar, DDS, MS, MBA
7-194 Moos Tower
515 Delaware St SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
[email protected]
[email protected]