Last updated on August 15, 2025.

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Program Size
4 (estimate)
Program Length
24 months
Application Deadline
February 1
Program Start
July 1

Program Contact

Nathaniel Lawson DMD PhD Director, Division of Biomaterials

1919 7th Ave South, Birmingham AL 35294

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We train students in clinically applied dental materials research through a blend of engaging coursework and hands-on laboratory experience. Our program is fully integrated within the dental school, so students collaborate regularly with faculty and residents across many different clinical departments. This two-year, immersive curriculum is designed to give you a head start on your professional goals while providing a nurturing, engaging, and enjoyable learning environment.

Laboraotry Research

Students pursue research aligned with their interests and strengths. Thanks to the breadth of projects at UAB, you’ll gain exposure to a wide range of topics, working closely with departmental faculty to build laboratory skills and master core techniques.  As you progress, you’ll select and complete a thesis project that showcases your independent research.  The focus of the laboratory is related to materials used in adhesive dentistry, prosthodontics, and 3D printing. 

Skills and outcomes

Graduates leave the program:

  • Fluent in current literature—in dental biomaterials, clinical restorative dentistry, and their chosen research area.

  • Competent with ADA specifications and testing, able to plan and perform a variety of in vitro evaluations.

  • Ready to design, implement, analyze, and report a research protocol in a publishable scientific paper.

Summary

Our goal is for every master’s student to graduate with substantial research experience, at least one publication, and a strong foundation in dental biomaterials. Alumni are well positioned for academic careers (U.S. or abroad), advanced clinical training, or industry roles.

Program Information

Program Type Biomaterials
Program Code BM01
Degrees Offered Certificate, Masters
Program Size 4 (estimate)
Program Length 24 months
Application Deadline February 1
Program Start Date July 1
Supplemental Application No
Supplemental Fee Yes
Stipend Offered No
Match Participating No
Program Website uab.edu

Application Requirements

Required Standardized Tests

Supplemental Requirements

  • Requires supplemental fee

Transcript Evaluation and Instructions

We require ECE resport sent directly to our school

Letters of Evaluation Instructions

We require 3 letters of recommendation (1 letter from Dean of Dental School)

Other Requirement Instructions

We do NOT require INDBE, TEOFL, or GRE.

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
  • Canadian Citizen
  • Canadian Permanent Resident
  • Non-US Citizen/Resident (program offers sponsorship)

Interview Schedule

Interviews will be conducted on Zoom.  Generally, interviews are scheduled in February, however, if an earlier interview would be preferred, please email the program director directly once your application has been submitted.  Applicants are also welcome to conduct their interview in person if they would like an opportunity to observe our school and city.