Postgraduate taught 

Oral Sciences MSc

Fundamentals of Oral Sciences DENT5107

Fundamentals of Oral Sciences DENT5107

  • Academic Session: 2025-26
  • School: School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
  • Credits: 10
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Semester 1
  • Available to Visiting Students: No

Short Description

This module is aimed at dentists and allied professionals to provide a background to the biological disciplines related to the field in Oral Sciences. The module will provide an strong introduction and foundational knowledge crucial for the rest of the course. The students are required to demonstrate in-depth understanding of these disciplines, aspects which will built upon in other modules. 

Timetable

The core teaching sessions will be delivered across a 7 week period, including five core sessions on various biological science disciplines sandwiched between an introduction and summary session. An additional two sessions will be scheduled for completion of the two summative assessments.    

Excluded Courses

None

Co-requisites

None

Assessment 

Assessment will consist of:

  • 10 minute, 40% weighted oral presentation in the form of an e-poster (All ILOs)
  • 2 hour, 60% weighted written exam incorporating a mixture of multiple choice and short answer questions (All ILOs)

Course Aims

This module is designed to help the student build a strong foundation in the key areas of biology that are essential for dentistry, including microbiology, immunology, and various aspects of cell and molecular biology. The student will gain the knowledge needed to understand how these biological principles apply to dental practice and patient care.

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

By the end of this course students will be able to:

  1. Critically appraise the contribution of different biological science disciplines within the field of oral sciences.
  2. Critically assess and evaluate the key cellular mechanisms and processes in the aetiology and pathogenesis of oral diseases demonstrating their implications for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.
  3. Apply and integrate biological principles to interpret recent research findings emerging scientific advancements in oral health and disease.

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course’s summative assessment.