College of Medicine and Dentistry

The future of
postgraduate education

MSc in Orthodontics (Full time 15 Months)

This Master's-level programme in Orthodontics is designed for dental clinicians seeking to advance their expertise and skills in the field of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics. This programme aligns directly with the General Dental Council (GDC) approved UK Specialty Curriculum in Orthodontics. This programme provides learners with the theoretical knowledge, necessary to underpin clinical practice, required by a UK Specialist and aims to enhance participants abilities in confidently diagnosing and treating patients with diagnosing, treating and managing patients with malocclusions and other dentofacial anomalies. Through a learner centred, practice-oriented approach, it empowers learners by enhancing their theoretical foundation and clinical proficiency (in a simulated environment) to allow them to provide high quality care in the management of patients with routine and complex orthodontic treatment needs.

Starts
Starting September 2026
Venue
College of Medicine & Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Format
Full Time 15 Months
Application Due
May 2026
Tuition fee
Total programme fee: £66,000 (Year 1: £44,000; Year 2: £22,000)
Dates
Starting September 2026
Format
Full Time 15 Months
Status
Live
Venue
College of Medicine & Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Application Due
May 2026
Tuition fee
Total programme fee: £66,000 (Year 1: £44,000; Year 2: £22,000)

Overview

Orthodontics is one of the most dynamic and rewarding specialities in dentistry, focusing on the correction of teeth and jaws that are misaligned. This programme equips dental practitioners with the knowledge and skills required to provide specialist care, ensuring they can manage a wide range of orthodontic cases using the latest techniques and evidence-based practices.  This programme prepares clinicians to meet these challenges through a rigorous, evidence-based approach. 

 

Clinical Skills 

The Master’s programme offers dental practitioners the opportunity to: 

  • Acquire a deep understanding of the principles of orthodontics and classification of malocclusion, theory and concepts behind different orthodontic appliances and growth and development with tooth movement, the biomechanics and orthodontic force systems as well as diagnosis, timing and treatment planning for the orthodontic patient using a range of appliances including the role of surgical orthodontics.  
  • Apply theoretical knowledge in a simulated clinical setting 
  • Explain the role of digital planning and treatment execution for the orthodontic patient 
  • Gain confidence and competency in advanced techniques taught in a simulated environment, under the direct supervision of expert faculty. 

 

Beyond Clinical Skills 

In line with the requirements of the UK speciality training curriculum, in addition to comprehensive training in orthodontics, 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 
  • Self-awareness and reflection 
  • Leadership and clinical/ practice management 

 

Learning Objectives 

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

  • Accurately diagnose and manage the full spectrum of cases requiring orthodontic treatment and its appropriateness 
  • Be capable of delivering high-quality, evidence-based orthodontic care 
  • Apply advanced treatment planning strategies for complex cases 
  • Exhibit leadership, critical thinking, and professional communication skills required to lead in specialist dental care. 
Expand All
Key Programme Features
  1. Full-time, campus-based learning delivered by experienced postgraduate dental educators and clinicians.
  2. Live sessions with leading guest experts and specialists
  3. Regular tutorials with reading lists
  4. Ongoing academic and pastoral support throughout the programme
  5. Designed to deliver the theoretical training required to support an application for recognition as a Specialist.
Programme Format

Duration

Full Time 15 Months

Language

English

Venue
College of Medicine and Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
The COMD Experience

Learning in state-of-the-art facilities taught and supported by experts, graduates of the MSc in Orthodontics 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  6 (with no component below 5.5) or other equivalent English language tests 
  • Two satisfactory references, one of which must be an academic reference. 

 

Additional requirements:  

  • 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 who are not meeting this financial check will not be offered a place on the programme.  
FAQ
What is the duration of the programme?

The total duration of the programme is 15 months, structured as follows: Year 1: September to July, comprising two semesters of study. Year 2: September to January, comprising one semester of study.

Does the programme include clinical training?

The programme includes teaching and development of clinical skills on simulators. It does not include clinical training on real patients.

How many credits are allocated to research?

50 credits out of the total 180 credits are allocated to research.

Does the programme include a research dissertation?

Yes. Students are required to undertake research and complete a dissertation in an area relevant to their field of study. Depending on the programme requirements and the student’s interests, this may take the form of a primary research study, a systematic literature review, or a clinical audit.

What are the English language requirements for entry for international applicants?

International applicants are normally required to have IELTS for UKVI (Academic) at 6.0 overall, with no individual band score below 5.5, or an equivalent approved English language qualification.