Masters Degrees (Odontology)

Forensic dentists are required in all countries to provide dental expertise to courts and legal systems. Dentists wishing to work in this field often find it difficult to gain the necessary skills.

This course addresses those aspects of forensic odontology which are most frequently the subject of expert testimony in courts and have the most relevance to forensic odontology internationally.

Why study Forensic Odontology at Dundee?

Internationally, there are few opportunities for dentists to gain expertise in forensic odontology in a structured manner from a University with a dental school and an active forensic medicine department.

As a student in Forensic Odontology you will work closely with other postgraduate students in Forensic Medicine, Forensic Science and Forensic Toxicology. You will develop a deep understanding of the role of other forensic disciplines and identify when, where and how forensic odontology links with the wider forensic community. This provides a unique multi-disciplinary nature to the course.

What's so good about Forensic Odontology at Dundee?

Acquiring this qualification will be a key step in the development of professional expertise in forensic odontology. The programme will enable graduates to acquire knowledge, understanding and skills in forensic odontology and research. Uniquely, they will learn interdisciplinary skills that are essential for dealing with forensic issues in real life.

Aims of the course?

The aim of the course is to provide dentists with a professional qualification that delivers core knowledge, experience and intellectual skills in forensic odontology, forensic medicine, science and research.

Teaching & Assessment

The course will be taught by experienced practitioners based at Centre for Forensic & Legal Medicine at the University of Dundee with guest tutors further enhancing the student experience. Research projects will be supervised by experienced researchers.

How you will be taught

A blended approach to teaching is adopted to enable you to learn in a variety of ways. Methods of teaching include small group seminars, virtual learning environment (Blackboard) based case scenarios, lectures, guided self-directed learning, demonstrations and observation in a working forensic mortuary.

What you will study

The course consists of four taught modules:

Forensic Odontology (taught module) - topics include:
Dental Identification
Disaster Victim Identification
Age estimation from dental sources
Dental report writing and giving evidence
Detailed anatomy and development of teeth and oral structures
Bite mark identification
Critical appraisal of literature
Practical experience in mortuary
Bite mark analysis
Research dissertation

You will study 5 modules:

Forensic Odontology
Forensic Odontology Research Project
Bite Mark Analysis
Forensic Medicine
Forensic Science

How you will be assessed

There are a wide range of assessment methods within each module including: written assignments, oral presentations and computer aided assessment exercises.

Careers

Acquiring this qualification will be a key step in the development of professional expertise in forensic odontology.

The programme will enable graduates to acquire the knowledge, understanding and skills in those aspects of forensic odontology which are most frequently the subject of expert testimony in courts and have the most relevance to forensic odontology internationally.

The interdisciplinary aspect, and the focus on the important aspects of forensic odontology will ensure that students are in a position to contribute to forensic service provision in their region/country.

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The aims of the programme are to provide you with thorough knowledge and practical skills in the field of forensic odontology. While no single case is alike and many cases are difficult to prepare for, the programme provides a sound and scientific foundation on which you can rely in your future career. The KU Leuven Master’s Programme of Forensic Odontology is one of the few programmes of its kind in the world. 

What is the Master of Forensic Odontoly all about?

The full-time Master of Forensic Odontology programme offers holders of a degree in dentistry the opportunity to specialise in the multifaceted field of forensic odontology. The MSc in

Forensic Odontology stresses multidisciplinary interaction with forensic medicine, judicial bodies, and insurance companies, and aims to train dentists and oral physicians in this fascinating discipline and its legal aspects. With its theoretical courses, self-study, preclinics, clinical demonstrations,

laboratory work, and a research-based thesis, the one-year MSc in Forensic Odontology

is the ideal stepping stone to this exciting new profession. 

Objectives

The academic programme, spread over one year of full-time study or two years of part-time study (60 ECTS in total) involves theory-based courses, self-study, pre-clinics and demonstrations in the field of forensic dentistry (part-time study: only for students who have a dental practice in Belgium).

In particular, the programme will provide insight into specialty techniques and their scientific background in forensic odontology.

The advanced Master's programme in Forensic Odontology is distinguished from the initial Master's programme by its evidence-based and research-oriented teaching, its multidisciplinary and integrated case analysis and its comprehensive approach to identification.

The programme also stress the multidisciplinary interaction between forensic medicine, judicial bodies, insurance companies, etc. Graduates will have the ability to critically engage the scientific literature, understand experimental methodologies, carry out statistical analysis and interpret results. Students will also participate in clinical and laboratory-based research as part of the advanced Master's curriculum.

This programme can be combined with the PhD, which entails at least four years of training.

Career perpectives

The demand for forensic dental experts in the legal world is rising. Graduates will be prepared to assist in the identification of victims or suspected criminals based on forensic evidence. Forensic dentistry plays an important yet underdeveloped role in the Belgian legal world. For dental professionals seeking careers in forensic odontology, this programme is extremely useful.

Careers as forensic odontologist

The forensic odontology work entails three major aspects: human identification, dental age estimation and bite mark analysis. Forensic odontologists are also actively involved in dental fraud and litigation cases.

Careers as scientific researcher

The master’s programme can serve as a valuable preparation year when you are aspiring to go on to doctoral studies in forensic odontology. Time spent in the master’s programme can count toward your PhD training programme, as long as the topic of your doctoral dissertation builds on the successful research conducted as part of your master’s thesis. 

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Forensic dentists are required in all countries to provide dental expertise to courts and legal systems. Dentists wishing to work in this field often find it difficult to gain the necessary skills. This 1 year course addresses those aspects of forensic odontology which are most frequently the subject of expert testimony in courts and have the most relevance to forensic odontology internationally.

Why study this course at Dundee?

Internationally, there are few opportunities for dentists to gain expertise in forensic odontology in a structured manner from a University with a dental school and an active forensic medicine department.

As a student in Forensic Odontology you will work closely with other postgraduate students in Forensic Medicine, Forensic Science and Forensic Toxicology. You will develop a deep understanding of the role of other forensic disciplines and identify when, where and how forensic odontology links with the wider forensic community. This provides a unique multi-disciplinary nature to the course.

What is so good about this course?

Acquiring this qualification will be a key step in the development of professional expertise in forensic odontology. The programme will enable graduates to acquire knowledge, understanding and skills in forensic odontology and research. Uniquely, they will learn interdisciplinary skills that are essential for dealing with forensic issues in real life.

Who should study this course?

This course is designed for dentists wishing to work in Forensic Odontology.

Aims of the course?

The aim of the course is to provide dentists with a professional qualification that delivers core knowledge, experience and intellectual skills in forensic odontology, forensic medicine, science and research.

Teaching & Assessment

How you will be taught

A blended approach to teaching is adopted to enable you to learn in a variety of ways. Methods of teaching include seminars, case scenarios, lectures, guided self-directed learning, demonstrations and observation in a working forensic mortuary.

How you will be assessed

There are a wide range of assessment methods within each module including: written assignments, oral presentations and computer aided assessment exercises.

What you will study

Topics covered include:

Dental Identification
Disaster Victim Identification
Age estimation from dental sources
Dental report writing and giving evidence
Detailed anatomy and development of teeth and oral structures
Bite mark identification
Critical appraisal of literature
Practical experience in mortuary
Research dissertation

You will study 4 modules:

Forensic Odontology
Forensic Odontology Research Project
Forensic Medicine
Forensic Science

Employability

Acquiring this qualification will be a key step in the development of professional expertise in forensic odontology.

You will gain:

Skills, knowledge and experience in aspects of forensic odontology which are most frequently the subject of expert testimony in course.
A deep understanding of the role of other forensic disciplines, resulting in in-depth knowledge of where and how forensic odontology links with the wider forensic community.
The necessary skills to plan, execute and write-up a research project.

The interdisciplinary aspect of this course, and the focus on the important aspects of forensic odontology will ensure that you are in a position to contribute to forensic service provision in your region/country.

Please note that acceptance to the course does not entitle you to work as a dentist in the UK, either during the course or after graduation.

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The longest running, accredited programme of its type in England - delivered by leading forensic researchers. Students gain knowledge of the forensic process and analytical techniques used in crime investigation. Exciting opportunities for specialist research projects in accredited laboratories around the world are available. This programme leads to further study opportunities (e.g. PhD) or careers in forensic science.

Key benefits

- Programme fully accredited by The Chartered Society of Forensic Sciences

- A well established and highly respected forensic science programme with contributions from practising forensic scientists who are experts in their field.

- The Department has a strategic alliance with the Metropolitan Police Forensic Services Directorate and links to many Forensic Science and Drug testing laboratories in the UK, EU and worldwide.

- Opportunities for integrated training placements in forensic laboratories mentioned above.

- Exposure to cutting edge technology and methodology at the forefront of forensic science research and development.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/forensic-science-msc-mres-pg-dip-pg-cert.aspx

Course detail

- Description-

Forensic science covers a wide range of disciplines, most of which are based on chemistry and biology. As their careers progress, forensic scientists often develop specialisms but a broad knowledge of forensic science is a prerequisite. Studying here you will benefit from a programme devised and delivered by internationally leading researchers, and recognised forensic providers including our accredited DNA analysis at King’s and Drug Control Centre testing laboratories here at King’s Forensics.

A particular strength of the programme is the contribution from many forensic practitioners, enabling you to share in their expertise and experience. We also collaborate closely with the Metropolitan Police Forensic Services Directorate in both teaching and research. The course at King’s College London is aimed at those wishing to pursue careers in forensic science. It is not intended for those wishing to pursue careers in forensic pathology, forensic psychiatry or forensic odontology. These professions require training in medicine or dentistry.

- Course purpose -

To provide knowledge and understanding of the forensic process and of the analytical techniques (particularly chemistry and biology) used in the investigation of crime. For those wishing to pursue a career in forensic science or a related subject.

- Course format and assessment -

Lectures, workshops and practical classes.

Each module assessed by examination, MCQ assessment, coursework (different for each module)

Project assessed by literature review, journal article, poster presentation and mini-viva.

Extended project assessed by literature review, poster presentation and seminar.

Career prospects

Most of our students go on to work in the forensic science sector with forensic service providers within the UK, European and International field being the major employers. Others have taken employment with the Metropolitan Police or crime scene departments of other police forces. Many of our Canadian graduates now work for the RCMP or the Toronto Centre for Forensic Sciences. Some of our students go on to do a PhD either at King's College London or other universities across the country.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/taught-courses.aspx

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This programme orientates internationally qualified dental graduates to that of a UK dental practitioner by providing a comprehensive grounding in six key training areas: basic sciences and their application to modern day dental practice, applied principles of clinical dentistry, clinical skills, communication skills, professionalism, management and leadership.

The course is delivered under three broad headings:

1. Taught
Students will acquire knowledge and understanding of:

-Relevant basic sciences including anatomy, physiology, immunology, microbiology and molecular biology with respect to health and how these are altered in disease states
-Patho-physiological and anatomical basis for clinical signs of oral and craniofacial health and disease
-Relationships between dental disease, population risk factors and the preventative measures

And integrate this knowledge to dental areas through discussions in:

-Basic and clinical science associated with pharmacology and therapeutics used in dentistry
-The science underpinning the key properties of dental materials and evaluate their clinical applications


2. Clinical
Students' clinical skills will be augmented through practical, laboratory based sessions using typodont teeth set in a manikin head.

-Operative skills will be taught to ensure students can undertake skilled, competent and safe dental procedures including: cavity design, extra-coronal restorations and non-surgical endodontic treatment.
-Simulated clinical techniques will be undertaken and the student will be introduced to decision making processes leading to tooth loss and replacement and execution of appropriate operative techniques for all stages of planned prosthodontic treatment (excluding bridges and implants) in conjunction, as necessary, with other specialists and technicians.

Students will observe current UK dental practise via clinics in oral medicine, oral and maxillofacial surgery, periodontology, paediatrics, prosthodontics, radiology and orthodontics.

Tutoring in Objective Structured Clinical Reasoning Examinations (OSCE) and Structured Clinical Reasoning (SCR) Exams will be carried out using the advanced facilities in the state of the art dental skills laboratory.

3. Research
The research component consists of a structured literature review and clinical audit report. Students will acquire knowledge and understanding of:

-Critical appraisal and analysis of scientific and clinical literature
-How clinical audit identifies problems in clinical service and helps formulate solutions
-Appropriate tools for searching the literature (search engines, web-based libraries, electronic documents)

Students will develop the analytical skills to be able to:

-Critically appraise, analyse and evaluate scientific papers and clinical literature applying the principles of evidence based dentistry
-Evaluate evidence of the latest developments in Dentistry
-Communication skills will be developed throughout the taught, clinical and research elements of the course with specific topic presentations during seminars as well as through journal club reports and presentations on dental and clinical governance topics.

The application deadline is 30th June 2017. Once we have received applications by the deadline the first selection process will begin. We reserve the right to receive further application after the deadline and make decisions on those applications in July/August subject to places being available.

Why study for your MSc in Dental Science for Clinical Practice at Queen Mary?

The School of Medicine and Dentistry has an unrivalled tradition of excellence in research and teaching extending as far back as 1123 with the founding of St Bartholomew’s Hospital. The London Hospital Medical College was the first Medical School in England, founded in 1785, and our Dental School was established well over a century ago. We are ranked 3rd in the UK for Dentistry (Guardian University Guide 2017) and our research is ranked among the best in the UK according to the most recent Research Excellent Framework (REF 2014).


In April 2014, QMUL’s new Dental School opened its doors to patients and students - the first new dental school in the UK to be built in 40 years. The £78m new school houses the most modern dental facilities in the UK, following more than a decade of planning and work. The new premises provide cutting-edge technology, superb education and research facilities for clinical dentistry and a vastly improved patient experience.


Students’ postgraduate learning experience is enhanced by our fantastic location in the east of London. Not only are we in one of the capital’s most vibrant areas to live and work but we also serve a diverse local community, where students develop their clinical skills and knowledge. Moreover, the Dental School offers students many exciting opportunities to develop an understanding of health and the treatment of disease in a global and international context.


The Institute of Dentistry is a special place to undertake postgraduate studies, bringing together a number of world-leading researchers in basic and clinical sciences who supervise research students in the fields of oral medicine, oral pathology, oral microbiology, oral epidemiology, oncology, dental biomaterials, dental biophysics, dental public health, dental education, periodontology, orthodontics, paediatric dentistry, prosthetic and conservative dentistry.


You will have the opportunity to attend Continuing Development Courses of the London Deanery, Royal Society of Medicine (Odontology Section) as well as internal Departmental and Dental and Blizard Institute seminars.


You will prepare a professional development portfolio based on evidence gathered from lectures, tutorials, clinics, self-study and self-reflection sessions.


Facilities
You will have access to a range of facilities including: medical and dental libraries located at the Royal London and at Barts hospitals, as well as the Mile End library.

Postgraduate Dental students will have access to the Dental Clinical Skills Laboratory based in the Garrod building at the Whitechapel Site.

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The Experimental and Medical Biosciences master’s programme prepares students for a scientific career within the broad field of Life Sciences, with particular emphasis on understanding cellular and molecular mechanisms related to health and diseases.

The Experimental and Medical Biosciences master's programme is designed to provide students with frontline knowledge in biomedicine and related subjects. The aim of the programme is to mix theoretical knowledge with practical skills and is most pronounced in the individual experimental projects done during the first and second year of studies.

The programme is newly designed but has evolved from two previous master’s programmes at Linköping University: Medical Biosciences, and Molecular Genetics and Physiology. Previously existing courses have been further developed and new ones have been created to meet the rapid development within the area. This means that the experiences from previous programmes and the novelty of a newly improved and updated programme are united.

Courses are taught using a multitude of formats, including regular lectures, tutorial groups with Problem-Based Learning methodology, laboratory work and seminar discussions. The laboratory classes use powerful model systems to illustrate modern concepts of medical biology and Problem-Based Learning promotes lifelong learning. After two initial, mandatory courses, the choice of elective courses offers individual study plans and flexibility in creating a profile that increases employability for all students within the area of Life Sciences. Different areas, such as: Cardiovascular biology, Stem cells and Applied Regenerative Medicine, Medical Genetics, and Neurobiology are covered (for a summary of all courses, please see the curriculum), but there is also a special emphasis on scientific reasoning, ethical attitudes, and multidisciplinary collaboration in order to prepare students for an independent and professional future in the field of biomedicine.

Individual projects in which students apply their theoretical and methodological knowledge in practice are key parts of the programme. During the first year, the Project in Experimental and Medical Biosciences will allow students to work with a specific assignment for ten or twenty weeks. During the second year, a one semester Degree Project (Master Thesis) is done. For both projects, chosen in collaboration with the project supervisor, the aim is to define a research goal, carry out the experimental project and produce a written synthesis of the data generated in relation to the current knowledge within the field. The degree project is conducted in a research laboratory, either at Linköping University, or at other Swedish or international universities, in the industry or in the public administration sector.

Double degree programme: An extra feature of the programme is the possibility for a limited number of students to study the second year in Vienna, Austria. Apart from the experience, an additional degree, is earned - Master of Science in Engineering. In contrast to the research oriented environment in Linköping, the studies at the University of Applied Science Technikum Wien within the Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine programme, have a strong link to the industry.

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