Doctorate Degree (D.D) in Endodontics

  • Overview
  • About the Program
  • How to Apply
  • Admission Requirements
  • Program Structure and Duration
  • Requirements for Graduation

Overview

The Doctorate Degree in Endodontics is an advanced academic and clinical research program designed to develop highly qualified endodontic specialists with expertise in contemporary endodontic science, advanced clinical practice, and independent research. The program emphasizes in-depth understanding of pulp and periapical diseases, evidence-based diagnosis and treatment, and the application of advanced technologies in root canal therapy and endodontic surgery. Through structured coursework, supervised clinical training, and original research, graduates are prepared to assume leadership roles in clinical excellence, research advancement, and the development of innovative endodontic practices.

About the Program

The Doctorate Degree in Endodontics at the Faculty of Dentistry, Ain Shams University is a four-year program comprising an initial year of two academic semesters followed by a comprehensive exam, thesis submission and defense and final exit exam. Upon successful fulfillment of all program requirements, graduates are awarded an officially accredited Doctorate Degree certificate specifying the approved field of specialization and the title of the thesis.

How to Apply

For application, doctoral candidates are required to submit a thesis research protocol, approved by the Department Council from January to May of each calendar year. Applications for international students in Egypt are centrally managed through the "Study in Egypt" platform (admission.study-in-egypt.gov.eg) and the Ministry of Higher Education's system (wafeden.gov.eg).

Admission Requirements

● The applicant must hold a Master’s degree in the same specialty from a university recognized by the Supreme Council of Universities, or an equivalent degree approved by the Council.

● Applicants must submit an official approval from their employer confirming permission to be enrolled in the Doctorate Degree in Endodontics and commitment to full-time study throughout the program duration.

● Applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency for program registration by passing the university exam or submitting a valid certificate (Local TOEFL with a minimum score of 500, IELTS with a minimum overall score of 7.0, or their equivalent). The certificate is valid for one calendar year during which the applicant must complete registration for the degree; international students could submit the certificate within one year from enrollment in the program.

Program Structure and Duration

Program Structure: The Doctorate Degree in Endodontics is a four-year program. Candidates should complete a total of 70 credit hours; 20 credit hours over one year (two semesters), including a comprehensive series of courses, 20 credit hours for the final exit exam in addition to 30 credit hours for the thesis.

Course load: During the first academic year, candidates study advanced compulsory and elective courses, distributed over two semesters (first and second semesters). A student becomes eligible to sit for the final exit exam only after successfully completing all first-year courses and fulfilling the approved academic requirements.

Semester Duration: 16 weeks per semester.

Clinical Training: The clinical training provides advanced, research-informed experience in endodontics with direct patient care. It emphasizes the diagnosis and management of pulpal and periapical diseases using evidence-based clinical protocols. Training includes the clinical application of contemporary endodontic techniques, such as root canal treatment, retreatment, and the use of modern instrumentation and obturation systems. The program emphasis the integration of clinical outcomes with biological principles, imaging findings, and current scientific evidence, supporting the development of advanced clinical judgment and research-oriented competencies in endodontics.

Didactic Courses and Seminars: Candidates participate in advanced seminars and lectures that provide in-depth coverage of endodontic biology, pulp and periapical pathology, advanced diagnostic imaging, biomaterials, emerging technologies and contemporary treatment strategies. These academic activities are designed to enhance theoretical foundation; analytical and problem-solving skills which are essential for excellence in advanced endodontic practice and research.

● This program requires the completion and public defense of a thesis.

Requirements for Graduation

● Full-time Study: Students must commit fully to the program.

●Attendance: Regular attendance is required; up to 25% absence may be excused in special cases.

● Academic requirements: All courses should be passed with a minimum grade of (C) and a cumulative GPA of at least (2.44).

● Practical training: Students must complete all required practical tasks, documented in a logbook. A minimum of 75% completion is required to sit for exams.

● Successful submission and defense of the doctoral thesis.