The M.S. degree with specialization in oral biomaterials is a program designed for individuals who seek the M.S. degree and wish to be educated in oral biomaterials. The program objective is to provide research training in oral biomaterials that provides opportunities for the student to prepare for a professional career in academics, a research institute, or industry. The program curriculum is designed to educate the student in the areas of dental materials science, clinical and laboratory research methodology, and statistics. Opportunities exist for the student to elect courses in the biological sciences through the UT Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS) at Houston and Dental Branch and engineering materials sciences through Rice University and the University of Houston. It is expected that the program be completed within 24 months. Program requirements include core and elective coursework and a research thesis. An individualized, three-year interdisciplinary program in cooperation with the UTHSC-Houston Dental Branch is an option for a student who seeks a postgraduate certificate/M.S. in prosthodontics and an M.S. degree with specialization in oral biomaterials. Interdisciplinary programs with other dental specialties can be arranged on an individual basis.

A bachelor's degree in a basic science or engineering or a dental degree or equivalent is typical. Applicants are expected to have a grade point average of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 on all upper division junior, senior, and graduate level work taken previously. Completion of the General Test of the Graduate Record Examinations is required. Foreign nationals whose native language is not English must present evidence of proficiency in English by satisfactorily completing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the Test of Written English (TWE).

A student is expected to complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of pertinent coursework with a grade point average of 3.0. Included in this requirement are 6 hours of research during two semesters of full-time registration for a research thesis. At the discretion of the program, additional assignments may be made. It is expected that the M.S. program be completed within 24 months and include four academic semesters and one summer session. The postgraduate certificate/M.S. interdisciplinary program would typically require six semesters and two summer sessions.

Core (*) and elective (#) courses are available from UT Health Science Center at Houston institutions, from Rice University, and the University of Houston. About 75% of the curriculum is composed of core courses.

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