M.S. and Certificate in Orthodontics
This program prepares graduates for a career in clinical and/or academic orthodontics through extensive didactic, clinical and research experiences and techniques in addition to teaching requirements.
FALL 2027 ENROLLMENT | Applications accepted May 13, 2026 - August 15, 2026
Program Director:
Thikriat Al-Jewair, DDS, MBA, MSc, MS, FRCD(C)
Department of Orthodontics
140 Squire Hall | thikriat@buffalo.edu
About the Program
Since its inception in 1947, this program has been committed to preparing graduates for successful careers in clinical and academic orthodontics. This is achieved by equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for evidence-based practice delivered through a curriculum that provides advanced level courses reflective of the currently available evidence-based information. This program offers a strong clinical component with multiple treatment philosophies as well as strong exposure to research.
Upon completion of this comprehensive 36-month program, residents receive a Certificate of Advanced Education in Orthodontics and a Master of Science degree from the University at Buffalo Graduate School.
All members of the Orthodontic faculty in the program have undergone an additional two to three years of specialized training in orthodontics, building upon their foundational dental education. Additionally, a significant number of them hold certification from the American Board of Orthodontics.
Accreditation
The program in orthodontics is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation and has been granted the accreditation status of accredited without reporting requirements. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at (312) 440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611. The Commission’s web address is www.ada.org/en/coda.
Length of Study
The program length is 36 months of full-time attendance beginning July 1st, the first year.
The goals of the Advanced Education Program in Orthodontics are to:
- To educate and train orthodontic residents to become highly proficient orthodontists who serve their patients and society with the utmost professionalism, reflecting positively on themselves, their training institution, and the orthodontic profession.
- To prepare orthodontic residents for potential academic careers in the field of orthodontics through comprehensive education and training.
Upon completion of this program, the graduate will have attained the following competencies:
- Administering patient-centered care tailored to effectively address malocclusion and promote optimal oral health.
- Demonstrating expertise in biomedical, dental, clinical, and epidemiological sciences, and applying this knowledge to both patient care and research endeavors.
- Conducting comprehensive assessments and evaluations of their patient cohort, rigorously evaluating and integrating scientific evidence.
- Exhibiting proficiency in interpersonal communication and patient behavior management, resulting in positive clinical outcomes.
- Demonstrating a commitment to upholding professional responsibilities, adhering to ethical principles, and displaying sensitivity to a diverse patient population.
- Engaging in collaborative efforts with other disciplines to deliver optimal patient care.
- Conducting research with a foundation in sound methodology.
Class of 2026
Dental School: Howard University College of Dentistry
Department of Orthodontics
Dental School: Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine
Department of Orthodontics
Dental School: University of Sharjah College of Dental Medicine
Department of Orthodontics
Dental School: University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Department of Orthodontics
Dental School: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Department of Orthodontics
Class of 2027
Dental School: University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Department of Orthodontics
Dental School: University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Department of Orthodontics
Dental School: University at Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
Department of Orthodontics
Dental School: University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine
Department of Orthodontics
Class of 2028
Dental School: University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Carol Davila" Bucharest
Department of Orthodontics
Dental School: Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine
Department of Orthodontics
Note: Polices on bloodborne and infectious diseases are available to applicants and patients upon request.