The Doctor in Periodontology (DrPerio) programme is a full-time, three-year postgraduate clinical and research training programme designed to produce highly competent periodontal specialists with strong foundations in evidence-based practice, clinical excellence, and scientific inquiry. The programme integrates structured coursework, intensive supervised clinical training, structured research activities, and professional development to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and ethical standards required to diagnose, prevent, and manage complex periodontal and peri-implant diseases. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, clinical governance, leadership, communication, and the application of digital technologies in periodontology. Upon completion, graduates will be prepared to serve as specialists, researchers, educators, and leaders who contribute meaningfully to patient care, professional practice, and the advancement of periodontal science.

Programme structure:

The Doctor in Periodontology program is structured over six semesters, covering both research and clinical training.

Core Courses

• GGR601 Periodontics 1
• GGR602 Periodontology Research 1
• GGR701 Periodontics 2
• GGR702 Periodontology Research 2
• GGR801 Periodontics 3
• GGR802 Periodontology Research 3

Prospective candidates who are passionate about advanced clinical practice, academic excellence, and research in periodontology are warmly invited to apply for this programme. The Doctor in Periodontology at Universiti Sains Malaysia offers a rigorous and supportive training environment led by experienced specialists, with access to comprehensive clinical exposure, structured research supervision, and established clinical and research facilities. This programme provides an excellent platform for dental practitioners seeking to advance their expertise, pursue specialist recognition, and make meaningful contributions to patient care, education, and periodontal research at national and international levels.

Join the Doctor in Periodontology Program at USM and Elevate Your Dental Career! For more details and application information, visit [https://dental.usm.my/index.php/academic/postgraduate]

An applicant for admission to the 3-years Doctor in Periodontology program will have the following requirements: -

• Bachelor of Dental Surgery or equivalent qualification; and Master's degree in dental sciences or equivalent qualification as required by HEP.
• This degree must have a total Student Learning Time (SLT) ranging from 1600 - 2000 hours. A minimum of 800 - 1000 hours of this degree must include among others a preclinical training component which contribute towards the specialty training.
• Registered with the Malaysian Dental Council (MDC) and holds current Annual Practising Certificate (APC); and
• A minimum of two (2) years clinical practice after basic degree, excluding the Master’s training; and
• Have good health and be free from serious communicable diseases.

Programme Specific Requirements

1. Candidates will be called for interview by Postgraduate Committee before final selection.

* USM has a right to withdraw the offer letter if you are not medically fit.

English requirement (for international candidate only):

• A minimum score of 40 for TOEFL (Internet-based); or
• A minimum of Band 7.5 for TOEFL Essentials (Online); or 
• A minimum of Band 5 for IELTS; or 
• A minimum score of 47 for PTE; or 
• A minimum score of 154 for Cambridge English (CAE/CPE); or
• A minimum score of 154 for Lingual skill Online; or 
• A minimum of Band 3.5 for MUET 

Exemption can be considered to candidate if: 

• English is the candidate’s mother tongue or National Language; or 
• Candidate graduated from an Institution of Higher Learning in which the medium of instruction at Bachelor and/or Master degree level is English (statement of proof required)

Full-time:

• Minimum: 6 semester (3 years)
• Maximum: 10 semester (5 years)

• September

The above fees are effective from Semester 1, 2025/2026 (from October 2026 intake and above)

** Fees are subject to change