1. Specialization Opportunities: The MDS program allows you to specialize in a specific area of dentistry, such as orthodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, endodontics, prosthodontics, pediatric dentistry, and more. Specializing can enhance your expertise and open up new career avenues.
2. Quality Education: Many dental schools in the Philippines offer high-quality MDS programs with experienced faculty members, advanced facilities, and modern technology for hands-on clinical training and research.
3. English-Medium Instruction: The Philippines is known for its English-medium instruction, making it an attractive destination for international students. Studying in English eliminates language barriers and enables effective communication with professors and colleagues.
4. Diverse Clinical Exposure: MDS programs in the Philippines provide exposure to diverse cases and oral health conditions, enhancing your clinical skills and knowledge across different specialties.
5. Affordability: Compared to some Western countries, the cost of pursuing an MDS degree in the Philippines can be more affordable, making it a financially feasible option for further specialization.
6. Cultural Experience: Studying in the Philippines allows you to experience its rich culture, interact with a diverse student population, and gain a global perspective.
7. International Community: The Philippines attracts students from around the world, creating a multicultural learning environment that fosters networking and lifelong connections.
8. Recognition and Licensure: MDS programs in the Philippines are often recognized by dental councils and boards in various countries. Completing a recognized program can facilitate licensure and practice in different parts of the world.
9. Research Opportunities: MDS programs often include research components, allowing you to contribute to the advancement of dental knowledge and practices.
10. Faculty Expertise: You can benefit from the expertise of skilled faculty members who are specialists in their respective fields and are dedicated to mentoring and guiding students.
11. Career Advancement: An MDS degree can open up new career opportunities, such as teaching at dental schools, working in specialized dental practices, or engaging in research and academia.
12. International Networking: Studying alongside students from various countries exposes you to different perspectives, ideas, and practices, enriching your learning experience.
Specialization |
Example Universities |
Course Duration |
|---|---|---|
|
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery |
University of the Philippines Manila |
3 years |
|
Orthodontics |
University of Santo Tomas |
3 years |
|
Prosthodontics |
University of the East |
3 years |
|
Periodontics |
Manila Central University |
3 years |
|
Pediatric Dentistry |
De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute |
3 years |
1. First Semester Intake (June/July): The first semester usually starts around June or July. The admission application period for this intake often occurs in the months leading up to the start of the semester. Application deadlines can vary but are commonly between January and April.
2. Second Semester Intake (November/December): Some universities might offer a second semester intake starting around November or December. The application period for this intake generally falls between July and September.
University |
Common Specializations |
|---|---|
|
University of the Philippines Manila |
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery |
|
University of Santo Tomas |
Orthodontics, Periodontics |
|
University of the East |
Prosthodontics, Endodontics |
|
Manila Central University |
Pediatric Dentistry, Implantology |
|
De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute |
Oral Medicine, Public Health Dentistry |
1. Local Filipino Students: Tuition fees for local Filipino students pursuing MDS programs can range from approximately PHP 30,000 to PHP 150,000 or more per year. Public universities tend to have lower tuition fees compared to private institutions.
2. International Students: Tuition fees for international students studying MDS programs in the Philippines are generally higher than those for local students. Fees can range from approximately USD 2,000 to USD 8,000 or more per year.
Expense Category |
Estimated Annual Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees |
USD 2,000 - USD 8,000 (International) |
|
Accommodation |
USD 1,200 - USD 3,600 |
|
Food |
USD 1,200 - USD 2,400 |
|
Transportation |
USD 300 - USD 600 |
|
Books and Supplies |
USD 200 - USD 400 |
|
Health Insurance |
USD 300 - USD 600 |
|
Miscellaneous |
USD 1,000 - USD 2,000 |
|
Clinical Practice Fees |
USD 500 - USD 1,000 (Approx.) |
|
Total |
USD 6,700 - USD 18,600 |
1. Dental Degree: Applicants typically need to have completed a BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery) degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. This ensures that you have a strong foundation in dentistry before pursuing advanced specialization.
2. License to Practice: Some MDS programs may require applicants to have a valid license to practice dentistry in their home country or in the Philippines, if applicable.
3. Academic Performance: Applicants are often required to have a satisfactory academic record during their BDS program. Some MDS programs may specify a minimum GPA requirement.
4. English Language Proficiency: Since the medium of instruction is English, international students might need to demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities may have their own language proficiency tests.
5. Letters of Recommendation: Some MDS programs may require applicants to submit letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or professionals who can vouch for your academic abilities and suitability for the program.
6. Personal Statement: A personal statement or essay outlining your motivations for pursuing an MDS degree, your career goals, and your reasons for choosing the specific dental school.
7. Entrance Exam (Possibly): Some dental schools might require applicants to take an entrance exam that assesses their knowledge in dentistry and their readiness for the MDS program.
8. Interview (Possibly): Some dental schools might conduct interviews as part of the admission process to assess an applicant's communication skills, passion for dentistry, and suitability for the program.
9. Passport and Visa: International students should have a valid passport and be prepared to apply for a student visa to study in the Philippines.
1. Completed Application Form: The application form provided by the university or dental school. Ensure that you fill it out accurately and completely.
2. Dental Degree Certificate: A copy of your dental degree certificate, such as BDS or its equivalent, from a recognized institution.
3. Transcripts: Official transcripts from your dental school or its equivalent, demonstrating your academic performance and courses taken during your BDS program.
4. License to Practice (if applicable): Some MDS programs may require proof of a valid license to practice dentistry in your home country or in the Philippines, if applicable.
5. English Language Proficiency Scores: If English is not your first language, you may need to provide scores from standardized English language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities may have their own language proficiency tests.
6. Letters of Recommendation: Some MDS programs may require letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or professionals who can vouch for your academic abilities and suitability for the program.
7. Personal Statement or Essay: A personal statement or essay outlining your motivations for pursuing an MDS degree, your career goals, and why you are interested in the specific dental school.
8. Entrance Exam Scores (if applicable): If the dental school requires entrance exams, you'll need to provide scores from the specific tests they require.
9. Interview (Possibly): Some dental schools might conduct interviews as part of the admission process to assess an applicant's communication skills and passion for dentistry.
10. Photographs: Passport-sized photographs as per the specifications provided by the dental school.
11. Passport and Visa: International students should have a valid passport and be prepared to apply for a student visa to study in the Philippines.
12. Health Certificate: Some schools may require a health certificate to ensure that you are physically fit to pursue the MDS program.
13. Application Fee: Be prepared to pay an application fee, which can vary between institutions.
1. University Scholarships: Some universities in the Philippines offer scholarships, grants, or financial aid to both local and international students. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria.
2. Government Scholarships: Some governments offer scholarships to their citizens for studying abroad. Check with your home country's government to see if they have any scholarship programs for students pursuing dental education in the Philippines.
3. Professional Associations: Dental associations, both within the Philippines and internationally, may offer scholarships, grants, or awards to dental students who demonstrate excellence in academics and commitment to the field.
4. Private Foundations: Some private foundations and philanthropic organizations may provide scholarships for students pursuing healthcare-related fields, including dentistry.
5. University Partnerships: If your home country has partnerships or collaborations with Philippine universities, you might have access to scholarship opportunities through these connections.
6. Corporate Sponsorships: Companies or organizations in the dental or healthcare industry may offer sponsorship opportunities to dental students in exchange for future commitments or contributions to the field.
7. International Organizations: Organizations related to healthcare and dentistry might offer scholarships to students pursuing advanced dental education in the Philippines.
1. Dental Specialist in a Private Practice or Hospital: Dental specialists with MDS degrees can work in private dental clinics or hospitals, focusing on their chosen specialization such as oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, etc.
Salary Range: The salary for dental specialists can vary widely based on factors such as experience, location, and patient volume. It can range from around PHP 50,000 to PHP 150,000 or more per month.
2. Academic or Faculty Positions: MDS graduates can also pursue teaching positions at dental schools or universities. They can teach and mentor dental students, conduct research, and contribute to the advancement of the field.
Salary Range: Academic salaries can vary based on the level of the institution, academic rank, and experience. Entry-level faculty positions might start around PHP 30,000 to PHP 50,000 per month, increasing with higher ranks and experience.
3. Research and Public Health Positions: Some MDS graduates might work in research settings, contributing to dental research and public health initiatives.
Salary Range: Salaries can vary based on the organization, role, and level of experience. Research positions might have salaries similar to academic positions.
4. Government or Public Health Dentist: MDS graduates can work in government healthcare settings or public health programs, focusing on providing dental care and education to underserved communities.
Salary Range: Government salaries for dentists can vary based on the specific position, experience, and location. Entry-level government dentist salaries might start around PHP 30,000 to PHP 40,000 per month.
5. Consultant or Specialist in Dental Companies: Some MDS graduates might work as consultants or specialists for dental product companies, assisting in product development, marketing, and education.
Salary Range: Salaries for these roles can vary widely based on the company, job responsibilities, and experience. It can range from PHP 40,000 to PHP 100,000 or more per month.
