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The VCU School of Dentistry provides four Master of Science in Dentistry programs along with six advanced dental education certificates. These include General Dentistry, Endodontics (M.S.D.), Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (with optional M.D.), Orthodontics (M.S.D.), Pediatric Dentistry (M.S.D.), and Periodontics (M.S.D.). Each program holds accreditation from the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation.Advanced education participants are full-time students, equivalent to resident trainees. Some programs may accept part-time students under specific conditions.Students pursuing endodontics, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, or periodontics receive a Master of Science in Dentistry upon fulfilling clinical requirements, completing coursework, and successfully defending a thesis. The certificate and M.S.D. must be completed together. Graduates earn a training certificate and become eligible for specialty board examinations.Our comprehensive residency clinics and prime location within VCU Health, an academic medical center, create exceptional chances for interdisciplinary teamwork. Situated in Richmond, Virginia's capital city, we serve a broad and varied population, providing countless opportunities to refine clinical skills while positively impacting lives.
Graduation from an accredited university or its equivalent, with a Doctor of Dental Surgery or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or the international equivalent
For international students, an external credential evaluation of all international transcripts to complete the application (WES, ECE, and AACRAO are some of the recommended NACES-approved providers.)
One “dean’s letter” from the academic institution from which the individual received the dental degree that gives class rank, GPA and overall academic recommendation
Two letters of recommendation from individuals who are in a position to judge the applicant’s ability to engage in graduate study and pursue advanced dental training
A written letter of professional intent or biographical statement that reflects the candidate’s desire to pursue the specialty and the intent upon receipt of the degree and certificate
A resume or curriculum vitae
Minimum grade point average of 3.0 (4.0 scale) or equivalent
An administrative application fee made payable to the Department of Endodontics, School of Dentistry (See website for details. This fee is in addition to the application fee that has to be paid with the submission of the graduate application. One year of an AEGD, GPR or the private practice equivalent is preferred but not required.)