Special-Care Pediatric Dentistry
The Master of Science in Special-Care Pediatric Dentistry is a graduate program designed for professionals who want to develop advanced knowledge and clinical skills in the oral and dental health of children requiring special care. This English-taught program combines scientific training with hands-on clinical practice, helping students learn how to diagnose, plan and treat dental conditions in children with disabilities, chronic illnesses or developmental challenges. Through courses, laboratory work and supervised clinical sessions, students gain a strong foundation in pediatric dentistry, behavioural management, preventive care and treatment planning for medically compromised patients. The program is offered over four semesters and admits students in the fall semester.
Located in Istanbul, a major health and education hub, this master’s program emphasizes both clinical excellence and compassionate care. With a curriculum that integrates modern dental technologies, research training and real clinical experience, students develop the expertise needed to support children with diverse medical needs. The international structure of the program also helps students build a global perspective, preparing them for advanced roles in pediatric dentistry, dental clinics, hospitals or academic research environments.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.) — Thesis (Graduate Programme)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters (2 years)
- Location: Istanbul, Türkiye
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international, English)
- Admission requirement: Degree in Dentistry (Dentist) plus fulfilling institute graduate admission conditions
- Area of study: Pediatric / Special-Care Dentistry, Child Oral & Dental Health for Disabled / Medically Compromised Children
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations & Special Care Dentistry Basics
- Pediatric Dental Sciences & Child Oral Health
- Concepts of Disability, Functioning and Child Health
- Introduction to Special-Care Dentistry for Children
- Research Methods & Academic English for Dental Sciences
Semester 2 – Clinical & Preventive Techniques for Special Needs Children
- Medically Compromised Children & Oral Health / Clinical Special-Care Dentistry
- Behavioural Science in Pediatric Dentistry & Patient Management
- Oral Health Care Planning for Individuals with Special Needs
- Elective or Seminar Course (Ethics, Disability Law, Patient Communication, etc.)
Semester 3 – Advanced Clinical Practice & Preparing for Research
- Advanced Dental Sciences to Special-Care Dentistry / Dental Materials & Techniques
- Oral Health Care and Promotion for Special Groups
- Monitoring & Prevention of Oral Health Issues in Children with Chronic Conditions or Disabilities
- Thesis Project Planning & Literature Review
Semester 4 – Thesis & Graduation
- Master’s Thesis / Research Project on a topic related to pediatric special-care dentistry
- Thesis Defense & Presentation
- Seminar on Clinical Governance, Ethics & Professional Practice for Special-Care Dentistry
- Graduation & Career Preparation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can work as pediatric/special-care dentists, especially qualified to treat children with disabilities, chronic illnesses or special medical needs. They may serve in public hospitals, private clinics, special-care dental units, public health institutions or non-governmental organizations focusing on child health and disability care. They can also join academic or research institutions to study and develop improved dental care protocols for special-needs populations. Because the program is in English and internationally oriented, graduates may work or collaborate in global health organisations, children's health programmes or international dentistry projects.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Special-Care Pediatric Dentistry (English) master’s program at Marmara University means gaining specialized expertise in a critical, under-served area of dentistry — providing high-quality oral health care to children with disabilities or chronic conditions. You learn not only clinical treatment techniques, but also how to plan and manage individualized dental care, considering both medical and social needs of patients. The research component enables you to contribute to evidence-based practices and improve standards of care.
Moreover, studying in Istanbul gives access to a large, diverse population — including patients with various medical backgrounds — allowing you to gain broad clinical experience. The English-language program opens opportunities for international collaboration, research and possibly working abroad. This specialization provides a meaningful, socially impactful career path and unique professional profile in dentistry.
Contact Information
Marmara University – Institute of Health Sciences
Pedodontics / Special-Care Pediatric Dentistry (M.Sc.) Program Office
Göztepe Campus
34722 Kadıköy, Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 777 30 00
Fax: +90 216 777 30 01
Email: healthsciences@marmara.edu.tr
Faculty of Dentistry – Department of Pediatric Dentistry
Nişantaşı Clinic
Büyük Çiftlik Sokak No: 6
34365 Nişantaşı, İstanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 231 91 20
Fax: +90 212 246 52 47
Email: pedodontics@marmara.edu.tr
International Office – Marmara University
Göztepe Campus
34722 Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 216 777 11 00
Fax: +90 216 777 11 01
Email: international@marmara.edu.tr
