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School of Orthodontics

The School of Orthodontics offers two unique programs: a 27-month combined Orthodontics Certificate/Master of Science in Dentistry and a one-year Fellowship in Clinical Orthodontic Research.

Combined Orthodontics Certificate/Master of Science In Dentistry

This 27-month program from the Advanced Specialty Education Program in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics combines didactic, clinical, and research components, leading to a Certificate in Orthodontics and a Master of Science in Dentistry. Students must be prepared to undertake an intensive, continuous, full-time course of study in addition to heavy supervised clinical training in various contemporary orthodontic techniques.

The Advanced Specialty Program in Orthodontics' classes begin in July of each year with an Orientation period. By the end of the first year it is expected that each student will have initiated comprehensive orthodontic treatment for an average of seventy patients after completion of a pre-clinical training course.

Students are introduced to a variety of treatment philosophies, with an emphasis on pre-adjusted appliances and related techniques. Supervising clinical Faculty present their philosophies in daily diagnosis and treatment planning seminars. A variety of clinical techniques are demonstrated and utilized in the school’s state-of-the-art orthodontic clinical facility.

Academic requirements for the 27-month combined Orthodontic Certificate and Master of Science in Dentistry program are as follows:

  • Compliance with the program's policies and protocols as described in the Student's Handbook.
  • Successful completion of the mandatory coursework, designated assignments and final examinations.
  • Validation of clinical competencies through delivering evidence-based patient care for assigned patients under Faculty supervision.
  • Taking the Written Examination of the American Board of Orthodontics (Second Year - Spring Semester).
  • Completion of the research component of the program with successful submission of a final
  • Capstone project.
  • Thesis
  • Completion of 76 credit hours.

Fellowship in Clinical Orthodontic Research

Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics offers a full time one year Fellowship in Clinical Orthodontic Research. The Fellowship is geared towards broadening and enhancing a Fellow’s background thus helping to prepare them for matriculation into an ADA accredited residency program in orthodontics upon successful completion of the program. Fellows participate in a diverse didactic and clinical orthodontic experience. Course work includes but is not limited to orthodontic record-taking, record-keeping, data basing, orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning, and exposure to various clinical orthodontic theoretical, diagnostic, and therapeutic treatment philosophies and regimens. Fellows not only shadow current JU orthodontic residents in the clinic and assist them in a variety of chair-side experiences; they will be expected to treat approximately 30-35 of their own patients. The research component requires the Fellows to participate in collecting clinical research data, assist in preparing and expanding our clinical research database, and helping to develop teaching modules for orthodontic continuing education. Throughout the Fellowship, participants will gain experience with orthodontic practice management software, orthodontic diagnostic and case presentation software, imaging software, cone-beam computed tomography, digital photography and radiography, as well as exposure to a variety of orthodontic appliances and techniques including using soft tissue lasers and temporary anchorage devices in orthodontic practice.

This one-year, non-accredited continuing education program in orthodontic clinical research is designed for the candidate who needs to augment his/her dental education. The program combines didactic orthodontic education, clinical training and intensive exposure to clinical orthodontic research.

Academic requirements for the One Year Fellowship in Clinical Orthodontic Research are as follows:

  • Compliance with the program's policies and protocols as described in the Student's Handbook.
  • Successful completion of the mandatory coursework, designated assignments and final examinations.
  • Validation of clinical competencies through delivering evidence-based patient care for assigned patients under Faculty supervision.
  • Completion of the research component of the program with successful submission of a final thesis manuscript.
  • Completion of 17 credit hours.

Admission

The School of Orthodontics has its own admission process which is distinct and separate from that of the University. It is a highly selective process. Approximately 300 applications are received for 15 available seats.