The Master of Oral Health at the University of Otago is a postgraduate programme that combines advanced clinical practice, applied research and professional development for qualified oral health practitioners and dentists. It suits registered dental therapists, dental hygienists, oral health therapists and dentists who want to extend clinical skills, take on leadership or education roles, or prepare for further research study.
The programme blends advanced clinical coursework, evidence-based practice and a substantial research component. Core areas typically include advanced restorative and paediatric care, periodontal management, complex diagnostics and radiography, pain and infection control, and oral health promotion. Students also study research methods and biostatistics to design, conduct and report a supervised research project or dissertation.
Clinical training takes place in the University of Otago's dental clinical facilities, with supervised patient care and opportunities to work with diverse patient groups including children, older adults and those with special needs. Coursework emphasises contemporary practice, clinical decision making, ethical and professional issues, and interprofessional collaboration.
Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant undergraduate qualification such as a Bachelor of Oral Health, Bachelor of Dental Surgery or equivalent and be registered to practise in their country or region. The University also considers applicants with other relevant degrees together with documented clinical experience in oral health practice.
Typical application documents include academic transcripts, proof of professional registration, a current curriculum vitae, and referees' reports. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University's English language proficiency requirements. Some applicants may be asked to submit a brief research outline or to attend an interview as part of the selection process.
Graduates progress to a range of senior and specialist roles across clinical practice, education, public health and research. Common career pathways include advanced clinical practice in community and private settings, clinical leadership or management, roles in oral health promotion and public health services, and positions as clinical educators or clinical supervisors in tertiary training programmes.
The research component prepares graduates for further postgraduate study (for example doctoral research) and for roles that require skills in evidence appraisal, clinical governance and quality improvement. Employers include district health boards/health services, community dental services, private clinics, non-government organisations and academic institutions.
The University of Otago is New Zealand's longest-established provider of dental and oral health education, with dedicated clinical teaching facilities and experienced academic staff across clinical and research disciplines. Students benefit from hands-on supervised clinical experience in purpose-built clinics and access to simulation labs and modern diagnostic equipment.
Otago's Division of Oral Health has strong links with regional and community oral health services, providing opportunities for outreach placements and interdisciplinary learning. The university's research environment supports clinically focused projects and encourages translation of evidence into practice, with supervision from staff active in both clinical care and scholarly research.
Overall, the Master of Oral Health at Otago is designed to develop advanced practitioners who can deliver high-quality clinical care, contribute to oral health services and lead improvements in practice and policy.
Shortlist scholarships and plan your application — free guidance from our advisors.