Last updated on April 15, 2026.

Medical University of South Carolina

Program Size
5
Program Length
12 months
Application Deadline
August 1
Program Start
June 21

Program Contact

Dr. Joseph Gambacorta Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs

James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine

Medical University of South Carolina

AEGD Program

29 Bee Street 5th floor

Charleston, South Carolina, 29425

Tyler Cooke Program Manager
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The Advanced Education Program in General Dentistry (AEGD) is a one-year residency with an optional second year. This clinical and academic program is designed to develop evidence-informed practitioners who are broadly trained, patient-focused, and community-oriented in their approach to primary oral health care. Residents receive a $35,000 annual stipend, with no tuition or fees required.

The resident’s primary clinical setting is the dedicated AEGD comprehensive care clinic within the James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine Patient Care Facility. Residents also rotate through community clinics serving underserved populations, though the majority of their time is spent in the AEGD clinic.

The program is structured to expand clinical skills, knowledge, and professional judgment. Residents will:

  • Enhance and refine clinical techniques
  • Provide comprehensive care for diverse patient populations, including those with Special Health Care Needs
  • Manage patients with complex medical, dental, and social conditions
  • Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving through evidence-based decision-making and technology integration
  • Develop collaborative relationships with interdisciplinary health care teams
  • Engage with community needs and deliver patient-centered, ethical care

The program emphasizes professional growth and prepares residents to:

  • Function as primary care providers for individuals and patient populations
  • Deliver multidisciplinary oral health care
  • Apply principles of patient management, practice efficiency, and quality improvement
  • Work effectively across varied health care environments
  • Integrate scientific evidence into clinical decision-making
  • Promote oral health through prevention and education initiatives
  • Demonstrate ethical reasoning and professionalism in all aspects of care

Residents will also develop a patient-centered philosophy that values cultural awareness, adaptability, and improved access to care. Opportunities for involvement in community service and professional organizations further support leadership development and a commitment to serving underserved populations.

While new dental graduates are competent in foundational clinical skills, this residency is designed to significantly expand the depth, breadth, and complexity of procedures they can confidently perform, resulting in measurable growth across all areas of clinical dentistry.

Program Information

Accreditation This program is accredited by CODA
Program Type Advanced Education in General Dentistry
Program Code AEGD183
Degrees Offered Certificate
Program Size 5
Program Length 12 months
Application Deadline August 1
Program Start Date June 21
Supplemental Application No
Supplemental Fee No
Stipend Offered Yes, Yes
Match Participating Yes
Program Website academicdepartments.musc.edu

Application Requirements

Required Standardized Tests

  • INBDE
  • Passing the INBDE before matriculation into the advanced dental education program

Transcript Evaluation and Instructions

Official transcripts must be submitted on ADEA Pass application 

Letters of Evaluation Instructions

Applicants are required to submit letters of recommendation through the ADEA PASS system. Typically, these letters should include evaluations from clinical faculty members who are familiar with the applicant’s clinical abilities, as well as a letter from the dean (or equivalent) of the applicant’s dental school.

 

TOEFL Requirement Instructions

Applicants whose first language is not English must submit official scores from the TOEFL. A minimum score of 90 is required for consideration.

Other Requirement Instructions

Applicants must have one of the following qualifications to be eligible to enter the
advanced education program in general dentistry:
a) Graduates from a predoctoral dental education program accredited by the
Commission on Dental Accreditation.
b) Graduates from a predoctoral dental education program in Canada accredited
by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada; and
c) Graduates from an international dental school with equivalent educational
background and standing as determined by the institution and program.

International Student Eligibility

This program will consider applicants who graduated, or plan to graduate, from a non-CODA accredited dental school: Yes

Applicants are eligible to enroll if they are:

  • US Citizen
  • US Permanent Resident

Interview Schedule

Interviews will take place between August- October. 

Additional Information

Applicants MUST have passed the INBDE and secure a state license or South Carolina Residency permit before starting the program.

Information on obtaining a South Carolina residency: AFFIDAVIT OAFFIDAVIT OF ELIGIBILITY (sc.gov)