This programme will pave your way to becoming a specialist in orthodontics through extensive clinical and academic training.
34th in the world
We're ranked 34th in the world for dentistry (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
Top 4 in the UK
We're ranked in the top 4 in the UK for dentistry (The Complete University Guide 2025).
Clinical exposure
We're based in a working dental hospital, and have strong links with the National Health Service (NHS), so you'll have access to a range of patients with diverse clinical needs.
Recognised course
This course is recognised for training purposes by the Royal Colleges for the Membership in Orthodontics of both Edinburgh and the Bicollegiate examination.
Diverse training
Receive clinical training from a range of orthodontists and join multidisciplinary joint clinics (e.g. orthognathic) in the latter stages of your training.
Close-knit community
Our close-knit student community study a range of specialties, and our dedicated postgraduate team will ensure you have all the support you need.
Our MScD in Orthodontics will pave your way to becoming a specialist in orthodontics by providing extensive clinical and academic training. Through this career pathway, you'll make a real difference to the lives of people across Wales, the UK, and beyond.
Our programme was established 50 years ago and is one of the longest-running clinical training programmes in the UK, so you are in safe hands. You’ll develop advanced clinical skills whilst exploring theoretical and research areas, enabling you to deliver the best possible care to your patients.
Thanks to our strong relationship with the NHS, and our home being a working Dental Hospital, you’ll have access to a range of patients with various treatment needs. The majority of your time will be spent treating NHS orthodontic patients under the supervision of orthodontic consultants and specialists, and your taught modules will also be delivered by supportive, inspiring academics who are leaders in their respective fields.
Over the three year programme, you’ll cover three key elements:
-taught modules covering evidence-based topics, inspired by the recommendations of the World Federation of Orthodontists, European and national guidelines
-hands-on supervised management of patients with dento-facial abnormalities in a supportive, clinical environment
-a research project on a topic of your choice, and preparation for a dissertation
The research project is an opportunity to explore a topic of relevance to the profession and join our Dental School’s academic community, who are all working together to make a positive difference to orthodontic patient care. Projects are available in a range of topics, often with the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills in topical fields, using innovative, digital technologies. Recent projects have investigated the aetiology of facial shape using 3D imaging, used eye-tracking technology to explore patient information, and explored sustainability in Orthodontics.
Upon successful completion of the programme you’ll be awarded a Master’s Degree in Orthodontics. Your programme will also prepare you for the Membership in Orthodontics, which you are encouraged to sit during your programme.
This course is one of the longest running in the UK, the amazing amount of patient experience truly makes this programme one of the best. It is renowned with a team of great researchers and a diverse group of distinguished alumni, making it a great choice for me! I found the course truly enjoyable due to the welcoming nature of the supervisors and staff.