MSc in Dental Materials Science
Study mode: Full time
Duration: 12 months
Why choose Dental Materials Science at Sheffield?
Dental materials are among the most widely employed medical devices, with almost all adults in the developed world benefiting from their use. The rate of innovation in this field is significant, especially when related health technologies such as tissue engineering are included. There is a need for clinicians and non-clinicians, along with scientists involved in materials development, to gain skills and expertise to provide them with a deep understanding of the science underpinning the use of materials in dentistry. The School of Clinical Dentistry is home to some of the world’s leading academics in the field, including Professors Ric van Noort and Paul Hatton, and by working with colleagues led by Dr Ihtesham Rehman in the Department of Materials Science & Engineering it has the full range of expertise necessary to provide a high quality programme.
The applications process is now open - Click here to apply
Programme outline
The course launched in 2011 on a full time basis only, with content that includes materials science, analytical and research techniques, structure-property relationships in dental materials, biocompatibility, and the development of new dental materials or related health technologies. The Degree of Master of Science in Dental Materials Science will be awarded after successful completion of 180 credits, to include a research project.
Aims and objectives
Overall aims
- To provide advanced knowledge and foster critical analysis of scientific and clinical aspects of the use of materials and related technologies in dentistry, and introduce the principles of research methodology as applied to dental materials science and related technologies used in the repair, replacement or regeneration of tissues in dentistry.
- To build on the student's foundation in the clinical or basic sciences to increase their understanding of the interaction of the biological environment with dental materials.
- To equip clinicians, scientists and engineers to teach subjects related to dental materials science, and introduce them to this research field.
Learning objectives
- To recognise the clinical, technical and scientific rationale for the use of materials and related technologies in dentistry, the principles of scientific method and their application to the study and development of dental materials.
- To understand how the use of materials and related technologies in dentistry is affected by medical, social, legal, and demographic factors.
- To appreciate the drivers of change and innovation in the field of dental materials science and related technologies including tissue engineering and "regenerative dentistry".
Curriculum
Subjects covered include:
- Materials science
- Chemistry and polymer science
- Dental materials
- Biomaterials and health technologies
- Research methods
- Research skills including scientific communication and information technology
Assessment methods
- Summative and formative assessment in the form of essays and oral presentations
- Examination
- Research dissertation
Teaching methods
- Staff-led seminars
- Student-led seminars
- Lectures
- Hands- on demonstration and discussion
Entry requirements
- Clinical degree or a good first degree in science and engineering. Other degree qualifications may be suitable so please contact us for advice.
- An overall score of IELTS 7 with at least 6 in each component
Closing date for applications
- Thursday 31 May 2012
Course Contact:
Professor Paul Hatton
University of Sheffield
Unit of Restorative Dentistry
School of Clinical Dentistry
Sheffield
S10 2TA
Tel: 0114 271 7928