Orthodontics

Length of Program: 1 year

This program offers two options to suit each enrollee's academic interests and needs. Applicants must specify the quarter they would like to begin and the length of program they desire. It is encouraged for trainees to begin during the summer or fall quarter; however, consideration will be given to applicants who would like to begin in other quarters.

Applicants who are interested in a 2-quarter program should apply for the Orthodontics Preceptorship Program.

Number of Positions: 4 (total for ACT and Preceptorship)

Program Director: Dr. Sunil Kapila

The Orthodontics Advanced Clinical Training Program is a full-time clinical and academic program for internationally trained dental school graduates and practitioners who seek introductory orthodontic clinical experience and knowledge. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will be able to recognize patients requiring orthodontic therapy and understand the treatment modalities in achieving esthetic and functionally acceptable occlusion for patients with moderately severe malocclusion. This program is not intended for individuals who have already completed orthodontic training in their home countries and are seeking additional educational experiences. Please see the Advanced Orthodontics Advanced Clinical Training Program if this is the case.

This program consists of classes with postgraduate trainees combined with observations and assisting in the clinics. The didactic curriculum includes a variety of lectures, seminars, and conferences that are incorporated into the program utilizing our new audiovisual conference room. Comprehensive learning in the biological sciences, human growth and development, and biomechanical principles of orthodontic theory are stressed. Controversial subjects are explored and applied to clinical care and research. Participants are exposed to complex and interesting cases, such as orthognathic surgery, TMD, and craniofacial anomalies in a forum designed to enhance the ability to successfully interact with professionals that have a variety of educational backgrounds.

Clinical education takes place in our state-of-the-art clinic where trainees will work closely with orthodontic postgraduate trainees to gain clinical training dealing with a variety of patients under the close guidance of diverse and experienced faculties comprised of top practitioners. While trainees are not permitted to engage in direct patient care, trainees will have ample opportunity for observation and chair-side dental assisting. The program director and all full-time faculty members will be directly involved in clinical teaching of the trainees.

For those who are interested in pursuing their education in orthodontic specialty, this program could be designed to enhance their qualification for the postgraduate program recognized by the American Dental Association. This program also provides many opportunities in research experience for those who are sincerely interested. Additionally, there are various avenues to participate in elective experiences such as teaching, research, society meetings (occasionally at an additional cost to the student), and social activities with other UCLA students and faculty. Trainees will also meet on a regular basis with the program director in one-on-one base to discuss their progress in fulfilling the program's objectives and individual expectations.

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A certificate of attendance is awarded upon successful completion of the program. This certificate is not the same as the postgraduate program certificate awarded to full-time international postgraduates in specialty training as a qualification for recognition by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.

Selection Process & Factors

The admissions committee considers the following criteria in its decisions:

  • Academic achievement

  • English language proficiency

  • Content of confidential reports

  • Content of personal statement

A letter of acceptance signed by the Program Director and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs will be issued upon acceptance.

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Program Fees

Fees: $57,800 per year starting July 1, 2024 (subject to change)

Certificate Fee: one-time payment of $200 (non-refundable)

Program Fee Schedule

 
Initial payment dueApril 5, 50% of annual program fee
100% refund10 weeks before July 1
50% refund5 weeks before July 1
Noneless than 5 weeks before July 1
Second payment due Dec 15, 50% of annual program fee
100% refundbefore the start of Winter quarter
50% refundwithin first 5 weeks of Winter quarter
Noneafter 5 weeks into Winter quarter

Contact Us

Postgraduate Programs Officer
Phone: (310) 825-7478 
postdds@dentistry.ucla.edu