New Collaborative Master’s Program Offered in Oral Biology

By Elyse Bloom

    NYU has introduced a new master of science program leading to an M.S. in oral biology through a collaboration of the College of Dentistry (NYUCD) and the Department of Biology at the Graduate School of Arts and Science (GSAS).

      The program is open to students with a minimum of a baccalaureate or equivalent degree who wish to specialize in areas such as metagenomics and population genetics, molecular epidemiology, bone cell and connective tissue biochemistry, oral immunology, periodontal and caries microbiology, mechanisms of mineralization, wound healing, salivary diagnostics, oral manifestations of HIV infections, and tumor immunology. Courses will be taught at both NYUCD and GSAS. Applications are now being accepted for classes beginning in September 2008.

      The M.S. in oral biology aims to advance the knowledge base in oral biology, provide both U.S. and international dentists with graduate-level training to better qualify them for careers in academic dentistry and/or healthcare-related industry activities, and to enable practicing dentists to improve the quality of care they offer.

      “The M.S. program in oral biology provides an excellent opportunity to substantially increase scientific knowledge not only of the structure, development, and function of oral tissues and their interrelationships, but also of their relation to other organ systems in both human health and disease,” said Peter Sacks, professor of basic science and craniofacial biology and co-director of the new M.S. program with Page Caufield, professor of cariology and comprehensive care. “As more and more international dental schools require faculty to have an M.S. in oral biology or a similar degree, it has the potential to further expand NYU’s impact on global health.”