Master of Science in Orthodontics

Welcome Message

Welcome Message from the Program Lead – MSc Orthodontics

Welcome to the MSc Orthodontics program at Ajman University’s College of Dentistry.

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to a dynamic academic environment where clinical mastery, innovation, and lifelong learning converge. The field of orthodontics is evolving rapidly, driven by advancements in technology, a deeper understanding of craniofacial biology, and the ever-growing demand for aesthetic and functional treatment outcomes. At Ajman University, our postgraduate orthodontic program is thoughtfully designed to meet these challenges head-on while preparing our graduates to become leaders in both clinical and academic domains.

Our program is more than a degree; it is a transformative journey. Over three years, our graduate students engage in a rich curriculum that blends theoretical foundations, evidence-based treatment planning, clinical exposure, and applied research. From interceptive orthodontics in children to complex multidisciplinary cases in adults, our students are trained to approach every case with precision, empathy, and a commitment to excellence.

The learning experience is enhanced by our highly qualified faculty, who are actively involved in research and professional bodies globally. Our graduate students have access to cutting-edge digital technologies and simulation labs, along with a large and diverse patient pool in our on-campus dental clinics, allowing for a broad spectrum of clinical experiences.

What truly sets us apart is our culture of mentorship and collegiality. We believe that professional growth flourishes in an environment of respect, reflection, and collaboration. Whether you aim to pursue specialist practice, academic teaching, or international certifications, this program will equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed.

I warmly welcome you to join our community of passionate learners and forward-thinking clinicians. Together, let us redefine the boundaries of orthodontic care and make a lasting impact on the oral health of the communities we serve.

Sincerely,

Program Lead, MSc Orthodontics

College of Dentistry

Program Overview

Introduction

Ajman University’s College of Dentistry welcomes candidates to apply for the Master of Science in Orthodontics (MSc Orthodontics).

MSc Orthodontics is a rigorous, three-year, full-time graduate program that provides advanced specialized training in the field of Orthodontics. It integrates comprehensive clinical experience with in-depth didactic instruction, cutting-edge research, and academic teaching. The program is designed to equip students with the highest level of clinical proficiency and scholarly competence. Learning strategies include, but are not limited to, lectures, seminars, advanced clinical practice, laboratory procedures, research theses, and teaching assistantships in Orthodontics. With a strong emphasis on individual growth, the program is student-centered and promotes equity by addressing each student’s unique needs, interests, and abilities.

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Orthodontics (MSc Orthodontics) is a rigorous, full-time, three-year postgraduate program (six semesters) that provides comprehensive academic, clinical, and research training in the specialty of orthodontics. The program is classified at Level 7 (Master Level) under the QFEmirates 2024 Qualifications Framework and aligned with international standards and benchmarking, including advanced programs such as the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)-approved orthodontic residencies in the United States.

The program is meticulously designed to develop highly skilled orthodontic practitioners capable of delivering high-quality care in the diagnosing, preventing, and treating malocclusion and dentofacial anomalies. It combines didactic coursework, hands-on clinical practice, and scholarly research to ensure graduates achieve the breadth and depth of competencies required of specialists in orthodontics.

The three-year, structured, full-time MSc Orthodontics program offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates advanced didactic education, continuous clinical training, and scholarly research. The didactic component provides an in-depth theoretical foundation essential for the diagnosis and management of both routine and complex orthodontic cases. Clinical training is delivered progressively across all six semesters, fostering the development of clinical expertise and ensuring that graduates gain the competence and confidence necessary to independently manage complex orthodontic treatments. The research and thesis component is designed to cultivate a spirit of scientific inquiry, enhance critical thinking, and promote a research-informed approach to clinical decision-making.

Mission Statement                                                            .
The MSc Orthodontics program at Ajman University is committed to developing highly competent, ethically responsible, and research-driven specialists through advanced clinical training, scholarly inquiry, and hands-on experience. We aim to empower graduates to deliver comprehensive, evidence-based orthodontic care while actively engaging in community service, promoting sustainable healthcare practices, and contributing to the advancement of regional and global oral health systems.

1. Admission Requirements

For full admission to the MSc Orthodontics program, applicants are required to fulfill the following conditions:

1. The minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or its established equivalent in the applicant’s bachelor’s degree in Dentistry (BDS or DDS). In specific cases, the student may be considered for conditional admission per AU policies.
2. Achieving the minimum required score on an English proficiency test, with a valid certificate, as follows:

• IELTS Academic: Minimum overall band score of 6.0
• TOEFL: Minimum score of 550 (ITP), 213 (Computer-based) or 79 (Internet based)
• Applicants may be exempted from the English proficiency requirement only if they completed all their schooling (K-12) and a Bachelor’s degree in English in an English-speaking country (e.g., UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand).

3. Equivalency Certificate: For degrees obtained outside the UAE, an equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education is mandatory.
4. Two recommendation letters from professors or professionals familiar with the applicant's academic and clinical capabilities.
5. Applicants must successfully pass an interview, a written exam, and a clinical skill practical exam conducted by the College of Dentistry to assess their suitability for the program.
6. Medical clearance: The applicant must be medically fit to study, and their immunization status against blood-borne infectious diseases must be verified.
7. Good Conduct Certificate: A certificate issued by official authorities attesting to the applicant's good conduct. ​
8. Identification Documents: Valid passport copy, UAE national ID (for residents), and recent passport-sized photographs. ​
9. Application Fee: Payment of the non-refundable application fee as specified by the university. ​
10. Seat Reservation Deposit: Upon acceptance, a non-refundable deposit of AED 21,000 is required to reserve the seat in the program.
11. B) Conditional Admission

A student will be considered for conditional admission to the MSc Orthodontics program under one of the following situations;

1. Conditional Admission due to Non-Fulfillment of CGPA Requirement: 

An applicant may be offered a conditional admission if they do not meet the CGPA requirement but satisfy the following:

1. The applicant holds a bachelor’s degree in Dentistry from a university accredited by the Ministry of Education, UAE.
2. The applicant’s bachelor’s degree was completed with a minimum CGPA between 2.0 and 2.99 on a 4.0 scale, or its equivalent.
3. The applicant has attained the English proficiency requirements as indicated in general admission (see section A above). Such an applicant must meet the following requirements during the period of conditional admission, or they may be subject to dismissal:

• May take a maximum of nine credit hours in the first semester of study;
• Must achieve an overall GPA of 3.00 on a 4.0 scale in the first nine credit hours of the proposed new program.

1. Conditional Admissions due to Non-fulfillment of English Proficiency Requirement: An applicant may be offered a conditional admission if they do not meet the English proficiency requirement, but satisfy the following:
2. The applicant holds a bachelor’s degree in Dentistry from a university accredited by the Ministry of Education, UAE.
3. The applicant’s bachelor’s degree was completed with a minimum CGPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or its equivalent.
4. The applicant has attained a TOEFL score between 530 and 550, or its equivalent. Such an applicant must meet the following requirements during the period of conditional admission, or they may be subject to dismissal:

• Must achieve a TOEFL or IELTS score as specified in the general requirements (see section A above) by the end of the first semester.
• May take a maximum of six credit hours in the first semester of the proposed new program.
• Must achieve an overall GPA of 3.00 on a 4.0 scale in the first nine credit hours of the proposed new program.

1. Evaluation of Academic Performance Based on CGPA
2. Entrance Examination at the Undergraduate Level  (24th of June, 2025)

3. Post-Internship Clinical Experience
4. Interview Assessment  (26th of June, 2025 )
5. English Language Proficiency Score (IELTS or Equivalent)
6. Additional Dental Certifications (INBDE, NBDE, MFD, etc.)
7. Prior involvement in the college as a volunteer or part-time participant.

Graduation requirements

Dental students will be awarded the Master of Science in Orthodontics (MSc) degree after fulfilling the following requirements:

1. Successfully completing the required 72 credit hours with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of no less than 3.0 (Grade B).  Students who do not meet this CGPA must take additional clinical subjects, as recommended by their academic advisor, in subsequent semester(s) to fulfill this requirement.
2. Successfully completing the treatment of the required clinical cases during clinical training.
3. Submitting and defending a thesis before an examination committee of the College.

Important Announcement for Applicants

Please note that effective from 17/06/2025, all new registrations will be placed on a waiting list due to high demand.

We appreciate your interest and thank you for your patience and understanding. Our team will contact you as soon as a spot becomes available.

Program Learning Outcomes

Master of Science in Orthodontics Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

On successful completion of the MSc Orthodontic program, graduates will be able to:

1. K) Knowledge
2. Develop highly specialized knowledge within and directly related to Orthodontics, demonstrating critical awareness of current problems and new insights.
3. Identify anomalies of the dentition and craniofacial structures and select appropriate clinical approaches for patient management.
4. Describe the principles and practice of orthodontic treatment, including a variety of comprehensive techniques applicable to orthodontic practice.
5. Demonstrate advanced knowledge of applicable research concepts and methods related to orthodontics.
6. S) Skills
7. Demonstrate advanced diagnostic skills in analyzing complex orthodontic issues.
8. Demonstrate advanced laboratory skills in fabricating the various intraoral or extraoral components, removable or fixed, and active or passive appliances.
9. Show advanced treatment planning skills and evaluate treatment options based on scientific evidence in the literature.
10. Perform advanced orthodontic treatment involving interceptive and multidisciplinary approaches.
11. Demonstrate highly effective communication skills in both the scientific and professional aspects using verbal and written means.
12. Formulate and conduct a relevant research project using sound scientific and ethical principles of human or laboratory research.
13. R) Responsibility

Autonomy

11. Demonstrate independent practice management skills and take responsibility for critical decisions and high-level governance, regardless of the patient’s social status, caste, creed, or religion.
12. Interpret and discuss knowledge, skills, and ideas with colleagues, and explain the various management options to the patient or their parent.

Role in Context

13. Show appropriate professional behavior and communication towards all members of the dental team and referring healthcare practitioners.
14. Demonstrate high-level organizational skills when working as a team member or as a leader.

Self-development

15. Demonstrate responsibility for professional self-development and practice in every learning context.
16. Appraise the outcome of treatment and develop self-directed learning to consistently manage highly complex professional and ethical issues.

Program Structure and Credit Hours

Study Plan

Study Plan