DDS/PhD Dual Degree Program

The UCLA School of Dentistry offers a combined DDS/PhD program designed for students interested in pursuing a career in academic dentistry and oral health research. This integrated curriculum allows students to earn both a DDS and a PhD in Oral Biology in approximately seven years.

The program begins with a minimum of three years focused on PhD training in Oral Biology. During this phase, students complete core graduate coursework, participate in laboratory rotations, pass their qualifying exams, and initiate their dissertation research.

After the initial PhD-focused training, students transition into the DDS curriculum while continuing to make progress on their dissertation. The DDS component consists of four years of didactic and clinical training, which is integrated with ongoing research activities. Students are expected to complete the graduation requirements for the DDS while maintaining engagement in Oral Biology research.

Program Structure (Typical Sequence):

• Years 1–3: PhD in Oral Biology – complete graduate coursework, lab rotations, qualifying exams, and begin dissertation research
• Year 4: Begin DDS curriculum (Year 1 of DDS), continue PhD dissertation research as needed
• Year 5: DDS Year 2, continue research and dissertation progress
• Year 6: DDS Year 3, continue research and dissertation progress
• Year 7: DDS Year 4, complete dissertation (as needed; some students may require additional time beyond Year 7 for dissertation completion)

Please note: Students interested in the DDS/PhD program are required to apply and be accepted independently to both the DDS and the PhD in Oral Biology programs.

Learn more about our DDS ProgramLearn more about our PhD Program

Contact Us

For more information about this program and how to apply, please contact:
Dr. Yvonne Hernandez-Kapila, DDS/PhD Program Advisor: ykapila@dentistry.ucla.edu