MSc in Dental Materials Science

Course Structure

This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis. Here’s what you can expect to study each semester. This is based on a full time Masters course.

Semester 1

In the first term, you'll undertake three modules, which will provide a foundation in mechanical, physical and chemical properties of dental materials and how that applies in clinical service. Specific areas of materials used in dentistry will also be covered including a variety polymer-based systems and 3D-printing technologies, various classes of ceramic systems from traditional feldspathic porcelain to pressable, milled and 3D-printable materials, dental cements and lining materials.

Semester 2

Teaching will be based around the effects of structure on the key properties of metals, including mechanical, chemical (corrosion) and biological aspects. Emphasis on material interactions with the body will link aspects of materials to human cells, including both conventional and novel materials, tissue regeneration, cytotoxicity and wound healing. An understanding of how new technologies impact upon the development of biomaterials including tissue engineering, novel restorative materials and imaging technologies will also be provided.

Semester 3

In the final term you'll undertake a research project and dissertation providing a platform for proper application, design, execution, analysis and reporting experimental work. The 12 week, 60-credit research project will provide students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills developed in Terms One and Two related to the key properties, limitations and failures of dental materials.

Module information

For each core module, a practical component will provide you with full training on a wide range of state-of-the-art research equipment fostering robust critical analysis and techniques for scientific research. Each of the six 20-credit and one 60-credit modules will run separately and consecutively to allow for part-time study, and also to provide logical progression and development of interrelated concepts and research skills.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

The following must be taken:

• Applied Polymer Science
• Biological Interactions of Materials
• Ceramic and Cement Systems
• Emerging Materials and Related Technologies
• Final Research Project
• Foundation in Biomaterials Research
• Metal and Metal Alloys

Successfully completing this programme not only boosts your employability in dental practice but also gives you a competitive edge when applying for postgraduate research degrees. Graduates are poised for exciting career opportunities in top-tier dental practices and prestigious dental hospitals, paving the way for influential roles in the field of dental and biomaterials science.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Course delivery

As a Birmingham student, you will be joining the academic elite and will have the privilege of learning from world-leading experts, as well as your peers. From the outset you will be encouraged to become an independent and self-motivated learner.

You’ll take three modules in each term, followed by a research project and dissertation. You can typically expect six to nine hours of classroom time per week, which is accompanied by laboratory practical assignments in most modules. We adopt a blended learning approach including weekly seminars, lectures and tutorials.

• Weekly seminars; “flipped classroom”
• An established virtual learning environment
• Research-led; putting theory into practise
• Robust critical analysis and research techniques
• Critical understanding of factors that determine clinical success
• Emerging technologies and the future of dental materials