MS or PhD in Oral Biology
Students will engage in basic research on clinically important problems concerned with the biological, chemical and physical basis of issues related to oral health. Main areas of research focus include molecular biology of cell signaling pathways; cell-cell adhesion; oral cancer; DNA damage and repair; craniofacial physiology including developmental anomalies; immunoregulation; dental outcomes; and dental biomaterials.
Advisory Committee
Dr. James Wahl III, Program Director and Graduate Faculty members associated with MSIA - Oral Biology
Admissions Requirements
Each applicant must hold a DDS, DMD, MD or a baccalaureate degree from a recognized college or university. In general, to be admitted, students must have achieved a B average as an undergraduate student.
If English is not the primary language of the applicant, a minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 213 (computer-based) is required on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
A brief narrative describing the reasons for applying to the MSIA Graduate Program is also required. The narrative should include a statement of career goals and area of research interest.
A completed application includes:
- Application form
- Official transcripts from each university of college attended
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume or CV
- Narrative from the applicant outlining his/her objective and career goals
- Proof of English language proficiency, if the applicant is from a foreign language country
Curriculum
Students enrolled in this sub-plan will engage in basic research on clinically important problems concerned with the biological, chemical and physical basis of issues related to oral health.
General Requirements
- Completion of at least 30 semester credits beyond the bachelor's degree, including both lecture coursework and research credits
- Completion of coursework
- Completion of the comprehensive examination
- Completion of a research project consistent with a master's level achievement
- Completion and successful defense of a master's thesis (Thesis Option only)
Students enrolled in this Medical Sciences Interdepartmental Area sub-plan will engage in basic research on clinically important problems concerned with the biological, chemical and physical basis of issues related to oral health. Main areas of research focus include molecular biology of cell signaling pathways, cell-cell adhesion, oral cancer, DNA damage and repair, craniofacial physiology including developmental anomalies, immunoregulation, dental outcomes, and dental biomaterials.