College of Medicine and Dentistry

The future of
postgraduate education

MSc in Clinical Oral Surgery (Full Time)

This Master's-level programme in Oral Surgery is designed for dental clinicians who wish to advance their surgical skills and expertise in Oral Surgery. Designed with flexibility and easy access to learning, the programme directly aligns with the General Dental Council (GDC) approved UK Specialty Curriculum in Oral Surgery. The curriculum comprehensively delivers all the learning outcomes required by the GDC, preparing and positioning graduates to demonstrate competency and readiness for the Specialty Summative Examinations administered by the Royal College of Surgeons. This programme aims to enhance participants' abilities in confidently diagnosing and treating patients with oral surgical problems, which include the management of impacted teeth, cysts, and benign oral pathology, as well as minor oral surgical procedures. A learner-centred, practice-oriented approach equips General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) with the theoretical foundation and clinical proficiency necessary to deliver specialist-level care in both routine and complex oral surgical procedures.

Starts
September 2025
Venue
College of Medicine & Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Format
Blended Full Time (3 years, 180 credits)
Application Due
July 2025
Tuition fee
£45,900.00*
Dates
September 2025
Format
Blended Full Time (3 years, 180 credits)
Status
Live
Venue
College of Medicine & Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Application Due
July 2025
Tuition fee
£45,900.00*

Overview

Oral surgery is essential to modern dental practice, particularly in managing complex cases involving tooth extraction, implant placement, pathology, and trauma. With a growing demand for more advanced surgical skills in dentistry, this MSc prepares clinicians to tackle the challenges of modern oral surgery, from routine procedures to more complex surgical interventions.

Clinical Skills

The Masters programme offers dental practitioners the opportunity to:

  • Acquire a deep understanding of the presentation and manifestation of oral pathology, disease pathogenesis, diagnosis and management including pain control, tooth extraction, trauma and associated injuries and soft and hard tissue surgery as well as the management of complications
  • Apply theoretical knowledge in a simulated clinical setting before transitioning to supervised clinical care
  • Gain competency and confidence under the direct supervision of expert faculty ensuring delivery of care to a specialist level.
Beyond Clinical Skills

In addition to comprehensive oral surgery training, the programme develops and fosters the wider non-technical professional capabilities required of a Specialist, including:

  • Clinical research methodology and critical appraisal
  • Communication and patient interaction
  • Leadership and clinical/ practice management

The curriculum is aligned with GDC guidelines, providing assurance that all key components are covered appropriately.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, participants will be able to:

  • Accurately diagnose and manage the full spectrum of oral surgery conditions
  • Deliver high-quality, evidence-based oral surgery care
  • Apply advanced treatment planning strategies for complex cases including those with traumatic injuries and need for soft and hard tissue grafting
  • Exhibit leadership, critical thinking, and professional communication skills necessary for specialist-level practice

Who is this programme for?

  • General Dental Practitioners
    • Who wish to advance their clinical skills and theoretical knowledge in oral surgery endodontics to specialist level. 
    • Who wish to manage cases requiring oral surgical procedures confidently incorporating evidence based approaches and current best practices.  
    • Who wish to work towards specialist recognition (where applicable)  

 

  • UK-registered and international dentists  
    • Open to both, but clinical placement options may vary based on registration status 
    • UK dentists may undertake their clinical training within the UK or at approved international centres* 
    • Non UK Dentists may complete clinical training in a location where they are eligible for dental registration and clinical practice 

Clinical placement options will vary depending on the applicant’s registration status, location and visa eligibility and will reflect the final fee paid. The programme team will assist in placement planning

*Requires relevant dental registration 

Expand All
Key Programme Features
  1. Flexible Learning Pathways with multiple exit routes accommodating the needs of busy professionals allowing participants to progress through to a full MSc or exit with a Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) or Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip)
  2. Option of pausing and rejoining the programme depending on circumstances to resume studies broadening access.
  3. Live sessions with leading experts and specialists
  4. Regular tutorials and progress meetings with academic tutors
  5. Ongoing academic and pastoral support throughout the programme
  6. Designed to deliver training required to support an application for recognition as a Specialist.
Programme Format

Duration

3 years

Language

English

Venue
College of Medicine & Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Delivery
Blended
The COMD Experience

Learning in state-of-the-art facilities taught and supported by experts, graduates of the MSc in Oral Surgery will be well-prepared for a range of advanced clinical and academic opportunities. The programme is designed to support clinicians on their path toward specialist recognition, advanced private practice, or leadership roles in dental education.

Eligibility Requirements
Essential Requirements:
  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or equivalent from a recognised institution
  • Registration with a recognised dental regulatory body with good standing e.g., GDC in the UK or equivalent international authority
  • Evidence of English language proficiency (GCSE grade C or equivalent). For international students an equivalent to IELTS 7 (with no component below 6.0) or other equivalent English language tests
  • Two satisfactory references, one of which must be an academic reference.
Desirable Requirements:
  • Demonstrable interest or experience in Oral Surgery
  • Completion of relevant postgraduate short courses or CPD activities
  • Two years’ post-qualification clinical experience
Additional requirements:
  • For clinical placement/training, below are additional requirements:
    • evidence of good health
    • evidence of Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance or an equivalent relevant check
    • evidence of indemnity
    • any additional relevant documentation requested by the placement provider
  • Letter of sponsorship and financial guarantee (for sponsored students)
  • Applicants from countries subject to UK government financial sanctions will undergo an additional financial check to ensure that the funds have not come from or earned in countries subject to sanctions. Applicants not meeting this financial check will not be offered a place on the programme.
FAQ
Who is the course suitable for?

For both UK based and overseas dentists

Who teaches on the programme?

Experts in the field including visiting specialists.

Will there be a financial check?

Yes for those from countries subject to UK government financial sanctions

What is the full fee going to be?

The full fee is available on registration and will vary depending on the centre where clinical placements are undertaken

How will I know if I have been successful?

Once all your documents have been submitted and approved you will be notified by the administrative team

What language is the course delivered in?

English