The Master of Science in Dental Materials Science [MSc(DMS)] programme is designed for dentists, dental researchers and materials scientists who want to gain a deeper and more specialised understanding of science and technology in dental materials. The programme is also suitable for science and engineering degree-holders who wish to pursue a career in interdisciplinary research or medical field. The programme does not involve patient contact.
The MSc(DMS) is a programme of advanced study designed to develop a broad knowledge of the principles underlying the mechanical, physical and chemical properties of all classes of materials in dentistry and medicine. This includes understanding the structure at molecular, microscopic and macroscopic levels; setting reactions; mechanisms of reaction and mechanical failure; testing and validation; adhesion promotion; and behaviour in all relevant science and emerging technology aspects, in relation to their function, application, handling and service. The programme includes small group tutorials, lectures, seminars, common courses, laboratory demonstrations and experiments, optional courses, self-guided learning and journal-based learning. Students practice scientific presentation skills, give a scientific seminar presentation at the Annual MSc(DMS) Post-Graduate Student Seminar, and write a scientific paper based on their laboratory research project, in addition to their MSc(DMS) thesis.
The rise in average life expectancy means that dental materials science is becoming increasingly important in the job market. In addition to clinical dentistry (for those with a BDS certificate), graduates can work in teaching, research and development, quality control, marketing, logistics, production, engineering and consulting.
Entrance Requirements
1. A BDS degree from this University or a degree or other qualification of equivalent first-degree standard from another university or comparable institution accepted for this purpose.
2. To satisfy the examiners in a qualifying examination if required.
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The HKU Faculty of Dentistry is unique in Hong Kong for dental education and is widely considered as the premier centre for postgraduate dental education and training globally.
Our students receive top-tier education and have access to state-of-the-art learning facilities at the newly established specialist dental clinic - The Institute for Advanced Dentistry Multi-Specialty Clinic (IAD-MSC), which is located in Sai Wan. The IAD-MSC is a Centre of Excellence designed to manage complex and severe oral conditions.
In addition to the IAD-MSC, the Faculty is equipped, with various other facilities, such as a Simulation Laboratory for dental students' self-practice, a comprehensive and advanced library holdings, and a Lounge. All of these facilities are located at the Prince Philip Dental Hospital (PPDH), which is about 5 -10 mins walk away from the University's Main Campus on Pokfulam Road.
There are also many other teaching facilities and amenities for students' use on the Main Campus and the Centennial Campus, including the impressive and popular Student Learning Commons.
Our professoriate and teaching staff are internationally recognized experts in their fields with diverse academic backgrounds. We also have a highly-skilled and dedicated staff, including dental surgery assistants, dental hygienists, dental technicians and laboratory technicians, to assist students with their learning.
Our taught postgraduate programmes are highly esteemed and cover ten subject areas leading to the Master of Science (MSc) degrees, the Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) Degrees and professional Advanced Diploma, which build on the MDS Degree. Many of these programmes fulfil the specialist training requirements of dental specialties of the College of Dental Surgeons of Hong Kong of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine.
A limited number of self-financing places are available in each specialty programme, and some government-funded places may be available for local candidates. Candidates who are interested in studying the MDS degree in a specific specialty are advised to apply for admissions to the relevant curriculum. Candidates who fulfil the eligibility criteria for the government-funded places and have demonstrated academic merit may be offered a place within the government-funded quota of places.
Further details of our postgraduate programmes are available on this website, http://facdent.hku.hk/. We hope the information will assist you in making a decision to further your education and career with us. Interested applicants should contact the Postgraduate Programme Director concerned for more information.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Faculty and being your partner in life-long learning!