https://graduate.ouhsc.edu/Programs Parent Page: Programs id: 27772 Active Page: Graduate Orthodontic id: 35742

The Graduate Orthodontic Program at the OU Health Campus College of Dentistry is recognized as a dynamic and stimulating workplace, and a pioneer in the transformation of orthodontic education. The program was established in 1981 and today prepares qualified orthodontists to manage the full range of dentofacial discrepancies. Our mission statement outlines our goal of training and graduating exceptional, caring orthodontists who exhibit a deep understanding of the creative and scientific foundations of orthodontics and a commitment to lifelong learning. 

What is this program/degree? 

The orthodontic program at the University of Oklahoma is a postgraduate dental specialty program designed to train licensed dentists in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dentofacial discrepancies that fall within the scope of orthodontic practice. The degree results in a Master of Science (MS). 

What can someone pursue in this field of study? 

The Graduate Orthodontic Program at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry offers a pathway to an orthodontic career through a blend of clinical and didactic courses, as well as research. The goal is to train and graduate exceptional, caring orthodontists who possess a deep understanding of the creative and scientific foundations of orthodontics, with a commitment to lifelong learning. 

What can I do with this degree after graduation? 

After graduation, alumni can practice as licensed orthodontists (joining a private orthodontic practice or public health clinics), pursue academic or research careers, or teach at dental schools or hospitals. 

What makes this program special at the college?

Each graduate student has the opportunity to treat a diverse range of orthodontic cases and gain experience with various treatment methods, all under the supervision of distinguished faculty who are actively engaged in research as well as national and international professional organizations. Students also complete a master's thesis as part of the program. Prominent researchers and lecturers from the US and other countries are periodically invited to Oklahoma City to give lectures covering pertinent orthodontic and other related topics. 

Class Size

4 students

Mean Salary

$243,620

(US Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2023)

Average time to complete the program

30 months

Curriculum

The entire program consists of a minimum of 70 credit hours of clinical and didactic coursework. Each week of the curriculum includes approximately three and a half days of patient treatment in the clinic. Each graduate student will start approximately 55 new cases from patients. This way, each graduate student has the opportunity to treat a variety of orthodontic problems and cover a wide range of treatment methods. The remaining one and a half days are dedicated to didactic instruction, seminars, and research. 

As part of graduate orthodontic education, students are required to complete a research project that involves a critical review of the literature, development of a hypothesis, study design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation. Participating in research cultivates critical thinking and a deeper understanding of the specialty. 

The curriculum incorporates Advanced Craniofacial Growth and Development, Biomechanics and Tooth Movement, Orthodontic Diagnosis and Treatment Planning, Hands-on experience with digital orthodontics (3D imaging, CAD/CAM, aligners), and more. 

Admission Requirements

  • Graduate with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) – 4 years. 
  • Pass the INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) to qualify for licensure and specialty programs. 
  • Must apply through PASS (Postdoctoral Application Support Service). 

Program Details

Location Offered

Oklahoma City


Degree Acquired

Master of Science (MS)


Application Window

 May 15th to September 1st (ADEA/PASS website)

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I chose OU Health Sciences because I knew the copious clinical experience, didactics, and research opportunities provided by the college would best prepare me for a career of outstanding patient care. I most enjoyed learning from a diverse group of faculty who created a culture of camaraderie and commitment to excellence. I am forever grateful for my time at OU Health Sciences, as it has given me lifelong friends, mentors, and an education that successfully prepared me for clinical practice.

Virginia “Jennie” C. Loeb
Class of 2024. 

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