Dental Public Health

"University College London offers a comprehensive postgraduate program in Dental Public Health tailored for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in oral health promotion, disease prevention, and health policy development. This MSc programme provides students with a rigorous academic and practical foundation in the principles of public health as they relate to dentistry and oral health. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including epidemiology, health promotion strategies, health service organization, policy analysis, research methods, and ethical considerations in public health. Through a combination of lectures, workshops, and independent research projects, students will develop critical skills to analyze oral health challenges at individual, community, and population levels, and to design effective interventions.

The programme is designed to accommodate the needs of practicing dental professionals, public health specialists, and policymakers by offering flexible learning options, including part-time study. Students will benefit from UCL's world-class faculty and access to cutting-edge research, clinical resources, and real-world case studies. The course emphasizes evidence-based practices and encourages students to engage with current health policies, innovative public health initiatives, and multidisciplinary approaches to improve oral health outcomes globally.

Graduates of this programme will be equipped to pursue careers in academia, government, non-governmental organizations, or private sectors focused on oral health improvement. They will also gain the necessary competencies to contribute to public health research, policy formulation, and program management. With a focus on developing leadership skills and strategic thinking, the MSc in Dental Public Health at UCL aims to prepare students to become influential professionals committed to reducing oral health inequalities and promoting sustainable health development. This programme is ideal for those who aspire to make a meaningful impact on public health systems and dental services worldwide, fostering healthier communities through innovative and effective strategies."

Students develop a broad understanding of the philosophy of dental public health, and in particular the underlying social, economic and political determinants of health. They are able to describe and apply the key principles of the Primary Health Care Approach, and demonstrate an up-to-date knowledge of current concepts and theories.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits) and a project report (60 credits).

Core modules

• Philosophy and Principles of Dental Public Health
• Oral Epidemiology
• Basic Statistics for Medical Sciences
• Principles and Practice of Oral Health Promotion
• Research Methods in Dental Public Health
• Regression Modelling
• Evidence Based Dental Practice
• Planning for Better Oral Health

Dissertation/report

All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a report of no more than 12,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is designed to encourage maximum student participation and involvement, and is based upon small group teaching seminars, where a questioning approach is actively encouraged, enabling students to challenge the basis for current dental policy and practice. Assessment is through internal assignments, examination, oral presentation and the research dissertation.

All applicants must normally hold an approved dental or medical qualification. Applicants must be confident using computers and show evidence of numeracy (e.g. GCSE Mathematics or Statistics).

Wellcome Trust Scholarship

Eligibility:

UK, EU, Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on academic merit

Dental Public Health at University College London offers a comprehensive postgraduate program focused on the prevention, control, and management of oral health issues within populations. The curriculum is designed to equip students with essential knowledge and practical skills in epidemiology, health promotion, policy development, and research methodologies related to oral health. The program emphasizes evidence-based practices, critical analysis, and the development of innovative strategies to address oral health inequalities. Students have the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary learning, collaborating with professionals across dental, medical, and public health fields. The program includes lectures, seminars, workshops, and research projects, providing a well-rounded educational experience. It aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, public health institutions, governmental agencies, and international health organizations. The faculty comprises leading experts in dental public health, ensuring students receive high-quality instruction and mentorship. UCL's strong links with national and international health agencies offer students valuable networking opportunities and practical exposure through placements and collaborations. The program is suitable for dental practitioners, public health professionals, and graduates interested in pursuing a specialized career in improving population oral health. Graduates of the program are equipped to analyze oral health needs, develop effective intervention programs, and contribute to health policy development and advocacy. The university's facilities include state-of-the-art research labs and libraries, supporting students' academic and research pursuits. The program is delivered part-time and full-time, accommodating diverse student needs. Overall, the Dental Public Health program at UCL combines academic rigor, practical relevance, and a global perspective to foster the next generation of leaders in oral health promotion and disease prevention.