Oral Surgery

The MSc in Oral Surgery at University College London is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed for dental professionals seeking to enhance their expertise and clinical skills in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. This advanced course provides a robust curriculum combining theoretical knowledge with practical application, equipping graduates with the competencies necessary to deliver high-quality surgical care. The programme covers a wide range of topics, including advanced diagnostic techniques, management of complex surgical cases, and latest developments in surgical technology and materials. Students gain experience in both outpatient and hospital settings, working alongside experienced clinicians and specialists in a supportive environment that fosters learning and professional development. The course emphasizes evidence-based practice, encouraging students to critically appraise current research and integrate findings into clinical decision-making. Throughout the program, participants have opportunities for hands-on training with state-of-the-art equipment, simulation exercises, and supervised clinical procedures. Additionally, the MSc aims to prepare graduates for future careers in academic research, specialty training, or consultancy roles within the health sector. With a commitment to excellence in teaching and research, UCL’s Oral Surgery MSc benefits from expert faculty members who are leaders in their field, providing mentorship and guidance throughout the course. The programme is suitable for qualified dentists who want to specialize further in surgery, and it often attracts international students, fostering a diverse learning community. Successful completion of this MSc can also serve as a stepping stone towards specializing in oral surgery or pursuing a higher research degree. Overall, the MSc in Oral Surgery at University College London offers a rigorous, evidence-based education, combining academic learning with clinical practice to prepare students for successful careers in oral and maxillofacial surgical practice and research.

The programme combines taught courses with a research component. Students attend teaching clinics, lectures, seminars, and undertake research study leading to a dissertation. There are supervised clinical and laboratory craft courses and the opportunity to observe at in-patient operating sessions.

Students undertake modules to the value of 360 credits.

Year one consists core modules (135 credits). Year two consists of core modules (135 credits) and a dissertation (90 credits).

Core modules

• Principles of Treatment Core Course (Oral/Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery)
• Clinical Care Core Course (Oral/Oral Maxillofacial Surgery)
• Dento-Alveolar Surgery 1
• Theory of Oral/Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Dento-Alveolar Surgery 2
• Dento-Alveolar Surgery 3
• Trauma and Correction of Facial Deformity
• Oral Oncology
• Clinical Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
• Dento-Alveolar Surgery 4
• Clinical Science & Research Methods

Optional modules

There are no optional modules for this programme.

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation (10,000 - 12,000 words).

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through clinical instruction on a one-to-one basis, theoretical instruction including seminar teaching, lectures, journal club, self-directed learning and problem-based learning.

Applicants must hold an approved dental qualification and have a minimum of two years' clinical experience.

The financing of the Oral Surgery program at University College London is primarily through tuition fees paid by students, which vary depending on residential status and mode of study. For the 2023/2024 academic year, international postgraduate students can expect tuition fees to be approximately £40,000 per year, while UK and EU students typically pay around £15,000 per year. These fees are subject to annual increases and can vary based on specific course structures or additional modules. In addition to tuition fees, students should budget for mandatory enrollment costs, registration fees, and examination fees, which may amount to several hundred pounds annually.

Funding options for students enrolled in the program include government-sponsored loans and bursaries. UK students may access postgraduate student loans to cover tuition fees and living expenses, administered by the Student Loans Company. International students often need to secure alternative funding, such as scholarships, grants, or personal finances, as UK government loans are not available to non-UK nationals. University College London offers a limited number of scholarships and bursaries for academically excellent applicants, which can significantly offset tuition costs. These scholarships often require separate applications and may be competitive.

Furthermore, students engaging in research components or seeking to undertake the program part-time or through distance learning may encounter different fee structures or funding pathways. Departmental or faculty-specific funding opportunities may also be available for eligible students, including research grants or teaching assistantships, which can provide financial support and valuable professional experience.

Living costs in London are an important consideration when estimating financing needs. The average annual expenditure for student accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure can range from £12,000 to £20,000, depending on lifestyle choices and accommodation type. Students are encouraged to explore various accommodation options, including university halls, private rentals, or shared housing, to find cost-effective solutions.

Overall, the financing of the Oral Surgery program at University College London involves a combination of tuition fees, personal savings, external scholarships, government loans, and possible departmental funding. Prospective students are advised to consult the university’s official financial aid resources and plan their funding strategy well in advance of application to ensure comprehensive financial preparedness for the duration of their studies.

The MSc in Oral Surgery at University College London is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed for dental professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery. The program typically spans one year of full-time study and offers a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical coursework with practical clinical training. Students gain in-depth knowledge of surgical techniques, anesthesia, pain management, and the management of patients with complex oral and maxillofacial conditions. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, integrating current research findings into clinical decision-making processes.

Located within the Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment, the university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated clinical skills suites and simulation labs, to enhance the practical learning experience. The program also encourages research engagement, enabling students to undertake projects or dissertations that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in oral surgery. Collaboration with prominent clinicians and researchers provides a rich academic environment, fostering the development of critical thinking and professional competencies.

Candidates for the program are usually required to hold a dental degree recognized by the General Dental Council (GDC) or an equivalent qualification, along with relevant clinical experience. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including surgical anatomy, maxillofacial trauma, tumor management, orthognathic surgery, and anesthesia techniques. Assessment methods include written examinations, clinical assessments, and research presentations, preparing graduates for professional practice or academic careers.

Graduates of the MSc in Oral Surgery benefit from the university’s strong reputation and extensive links with NHS hospitals and private practices, facilitating excellent clinical placement opportunities. The program aims to produce skilled, competent, and compassionate oral surgeons equipped to meet the demands of complex surgical care delivery. Upon completion, students receive an MSc degree, which supports further specialization or progression into research, teaching, or clinical practice within the specialty of oral surgery.