Course outline and modules
Having expanded your understanding of dental implantology topics and evidence-based dental care via the Cambridge Academy of Dental Implantology PG Cert/Bridging program or PG diploma, this 90-credit top-up program represents an opportunity to further solidify your expertise and top up to master's. Developed in partnership with CAofDI, this program enables you to assimilate your existing knowledge and attain an advanced level of specialisation within your selected area of focus.
This is achieved through the completion of a 30-credit advanced research methods module, complemented by a 60-credit individual research project that pertains directly to the implant dentistry profession. Throughout your journey, you will benefit from collaborative academic guidance and support, ensuring a comprehensive and impactful educational experience.
This course is part of the School of Optometry which sits within the College of Health and Life Sciences.
We have a long and established history of providing high-quality, industry-leading academic and professional development qualifications. Acknowledged as one of the leading centres of health sciences within the UK, our optometry programmes are well regarded for the standard of teaching and high levels of student satisfaction they provide.
Why Aston?
Aston is presently the only provider in the UK giving students the opportunity to top up their existing qualification in the subject and convert it into a fully approved master’s qualification.
This course is a part-time, online course, giving you the flexibility of accessing supplementary learning through group tutorials and seminars either face-to-face or online (based on your preference) through a unique collaboration with Cambridge Academic of Dental Implantology (CAoDI). Bringing together key strengths through a combination of research expertise held by Aston and subject specialism via CAoDI. You will be able to fit your studies around your work and personal commitments. Your study, your way.
The Aston School of Optometry offer high standards of expertise in teaching underpinned by evidence-based research and professional practice in areas of Optometry, Audiology and Dental Implantology, ensuring students gain a wide breadth of knowledge in the areas they choose to study. The postgraduate modules are online and distance learning based allowing professionals to work at their own pace and around their careers.
Modules
You will study two modules consisting of a total of 90 credits to contribute to the 180 credits required for a master's qualification. Each credit is equivalent to 10 learning hours; these may include but are not limited to online lectures, seminars, tutorials, small group activity, reading, formative assessment activity, other independent study and reflecting on assignment feedback.
Advanced Research Methods – 30 credits
The aim of this module is to develop your knowledge and skills in designing, conducting and appraising research. Upon completion, you will:
- Develop a suitable research question based on the reading of literature and plan a programme of research.
- Be able to select and implement appropriate quantitative and qualitative techniques for different research questions and designs.
Research Project – 60 credits
The aim of the module is to give you the opportunity to research a topic which is of professional interest and importance. Directed study of the most up-to-date literature relevant to the field of implant dentistry will allow you to develop a contemporary understanding of the subject matter and provide a critical appraisal of published evidence in the selected field.
This module provides students with the opportunity to plan and manage their own research project subject to ethical clearance. Knowledge gained from undertaking the core Research Methods module (DI4ARM) is required.
For more information about this course, please contact Bhavisha J. Koner and/or Stuart Ellis
Entry requirements
Students must be a dentist holding full GDC registration or equivalent for overseas candidates.
Entry will be via advanced standing into stage 3 and through recognised prior learning of a minimum of 90 credits obtained at level 7, through EduQual awarded Bridging Pathway and or PGDip programme in the field of Dental Implantology, delivered by the Cambridge Academy of Dental Implantology (CAofDI).
Students are usually expected to have completed the required 90 credits from the PG Bridging Pathway and PGDip in the field of study at CAofDI within the previous 3 years to progress to Aston’s Master’s programme.
Normally, students will be required to have attained a minimum of 60% in written assignments and an overall minimum mark of 60% within the identified 90 credits to progress to Aston’s Master’s programme.
Please note the application deadline for this course is Wednesday 23rd August 2024.
Learning, teaching and assessment
Assessment will be through a combination of continuous assessments, logbook, research proposal, presentations, and a dissertation.
Key Staff:
Aston Programme director: Dr Dan Green
CAofDI Programme Tutor: Dr Stuart Ellis
Fees
The course fee for UK/International students is £15,000
This fee can be paid in three parts over October, January, and April.
(Note: your deposit will be automatically deducted from the tuition fee)
See link below for further information:
Tuition Fee Payments and Dates
Career prospects
This course has been designed for those already in professional practice who want to advance their skills and gain a deeper understanding of their area of speciality or develop knowledge in new areas. Like the flexibility of this course, the career progression opportunities it provides are highly personal. Many students choose to undertake this qualification to progress within their selected career path, others to branch out into new fields.
Speak to our Admissions Team
If you have any questions about the application process please get in touch with our postgraduate admissions team:
Email: professionalcpd@aston.ac.uk
Call: 0121 204 3200 (Please note this line is open Monday-Friday between 10am-4pm)
Please click here for guidance on completing the postgraduate application.
