Case Western Reserve University

What you'll study

The programme combines concentrated clinical training, advanced didactic coursework and a research component. Core topics typically include advanced clinical techniques across restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, periodontics, endodontics and oral surgery; diagnostic imaging and oral radiology; oral pathology; pharmacology and pain management; implant dentistry; and management of medically complex patients.

Students also complete modules in research methods, biostatistics and evidence-based practice and are expected to undertake a supervised research project or scholarly thesis. Teaching formats include patient care clinics, case conferences, seminars, simulation laboratory sessions and faculty-supervised rotations in hospital and community clinics.

Entry requirements

• Primary dental qualification (DDS, DMD or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
• Demonstrated clinical experience in general dentistry; some programmes expect a minimum period of post‑graduate practice.
• Academic transcripts, a current curriculum vitae and a personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing advanced training.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or clinical referees who can comment on clinical aptitude and potential for graduate study.
• International applicants will generally need to demonstrate English language proficiency (for example via recognised tests) and provide evidence that their primary dental qualification is equivalent to the required standard.
• Shortlisted candidates are typically invited to interview; additional requirements may include a clinical portfolio or documentation of licensure where applicable.

Career prospects

• Enhanced clinical practice in private or hospital-based dentistry, with the ability to manage more complex restorative and interdisciplinary cases.
• Preparation for entry into dental specialty residencies (prosthodontics, periodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, orthodontics) where a master’s and advanced clinical experience strengthen applications.
• Opportunities in academic dentistry as clinical instructors or faculty members, supported by the research training component.
• Roles in hospital dentistry, community clinics, public health programmes and multidisciplinary care teams treating medically complex patients.
• Positions in dental research, industry or product development where advanced knowledge of biomaterials, implantology or clinical research methods is relevant.

Why study at Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University’s dental programmes are delivered within an academic medical centre environment, giving students access to broad clinical case-mix and collaborations with University Hospitals and affiliated clinics. The School of Dental Medicine emphasises a combination of hands-on patient care, research literacy and interdisciplinary work, with opportunities to collaborate across biomedical engineering, public health and basic sciences.

Students benefit from experienced clinical faculty, simulation and research facilities, and a patient population that supports exposure to diverse clinical presentations. The programme is suitable for practitioners who want rigorous supervised clinical training alongside exposure to contemporary research and teaching practice.