Doctor of Philosophy in Dentistry (By Research)

(N/0911/8/0001) (08/29) (MQA/PA 15861)

Duration

Full Time:3-4 Years | Part Time: 4-6 years

Intakes

March, July, November

Programme Overview

Doctor of Philosophy in Dentistry is a doctorate that aims to learn about a significant area of medical research and to cover subjects including general dentistry, implants, and dental surgery. A doctoral degree offers excellent resources to support doctorates in cutting-edge research as well as to enable doctoral applicants to obtain experience in teaching and understand modern testing techniques. The curriculum emphasizes original research conducted under supervision, instructional courses, and the creation and presentation of a thesis.

For successful completion of PhD candidate should publish minimum four research articles in Scopus indexed journals, with Lincoln University College affiliation.

Subject Highlights

Sl.No.	MQA Subject Code	Subject Name	Credits
1.	PHDD 801	Research Methodology	3
2.	PHDD 802	Computer Application	3
3.	PHDD 803	Thesis – any one of the following area 1. Orthodontics 2. Conservative Dentistry 3. Endodontics 4. Prosthodontics 5. Pedodontics 6. Periodontics 7. Oral surgery 8. Dental Public Health 9. Dental Aesthetics 10. Oral biology 11. Oral Medicine 12. Dental Material Sciences 13. Oral Imaging 14. Oral Pathology 15.Oral Physiology	N/A

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements:

i. A master’s degree in the field or related fields accepted by the Lincoln University College Senate; or
ii. Other qualifications equivalent to a master’s degree recognized by the Government of Malaysia.
iii. Candidates without a related qualification in the field/s or working experience in the relevant fields must undergo appropriate prerequisite courses determined by Lincoln University College.

A Bachelor’s Degree with the following conditions:

i. A Bachelor’s Degree in Dentistry or related fields with first-class (CGPA of 3.67 or higher) or its equivalent from an academic or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) program;
ii. Undergo internal assessment; and
iii.Any other requirements of the HEP

Bachelor’s Degree candidates who are registered for master’s degree programmes may apply to convert to the doctoral degree programmes subjected to the following conditions:

i. Within 1 year for full-time and within 2 years for part-time candidates
ii. Having shown competency and capability in conducting research at doctoral level through rigorous internal evaluation by the HEP; and
iii. Approval of the HEP Senate

English Requirements:
International students must have proof of good proficiency in verbal and written English. For example, International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 5.0 or its equivalent. If a student does not meet this requirement, HEPs must offer English proficiency courses to ensure that the student’s proficiency is sufficient to meet the needs of the programme.

Career Opportunities

The intent of the program, Doctor of Philosophy in Dentistry, is to develop scientists who are prepared for careers in teaching and research. Dental doctoral program alums can pursue careers in:

Dentistry Professor
Post Doctoral Research Fellow
Research Scientist

Program Aim

The program Doctor of Philosophy in Dentistry will produce professionals who can be able to:

Impart in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of dentistry including deeper insight into current research.
Adopt practical measures with interpersonal accuracy through effective communication within a team in the field of dentistry.
Accept the digital and numerical skills in managing scientific solution to dental complex problems.
Inculcate leadership quality for entrepreneurial works personally in dentistry tasks.
Empower integrity through professionalism and ethics in dentistry related task.

FAQ

Admission

What are the basic requirements for joining the PhD in Dentistry program?

The candidate should have completed a Master’s degree in dentistry. For detailed qualification criteria, use the following link: https://testing.lincoln.edu.my/doctor-of-philosophy-in-dentistry-entry-requirements/

I am not a Malaysian. What transcripts can I submit?

As an international student, you will have to submit transcripts for your Master’s in dentistry degree from your home country. If your transcripts are in local language. You have to translate it into English language and get it attested by notary or government agency.

Is the PhD in Dentistry program available as part time?

Part time PhD in dentistry is available only to Malaysian applicants. For international applicants the program is compulsorily full time.

Can I join the program at any time of the year?

The PhD program has a three intakes per year (march, July and November). You can apply for admission at any time of the year to get admission for the nearest intake.

I have a Bachelor's Degree in Dentistry, Can I apply for the PhD in Dentistry program?

Exceptional candidates with a Bachelor’s degree are eligible. The requirements are: BACHELOR’s Degree in Dentistry or TVET – MINIMUM CGPA 3.67 + (should clear internal assessment conducted by LUC)

After joining PhD program, can I transfer to other program or university?

LUC allows transfer to other programs offered by the university provided the candidate attains eligibility for that program. This is achieved by transfer of credits from the departing program to the program the candidate wishes to join. Transfer to another university is possible but is very complicated and dependant on a number of factors based on the ministry of higher education and Malaysian qualification agency.

I am not a Malaysian. Can I apply for APC at the Malaysian Dental Council?

As an international candidate you cannot apply for an Annual Practising License at the MDC. However, if you obtain a job at any Malaysian Institute/Clinic, the employer will assist you in obtaining a Temporary Practising certificate on your behalf.

English Proficiency

What are the language requirements for international students?

International applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency. This is commonly done through TOEFL or IELTS scores. The minimum required TOEFL score is typically around 90 (internet-based test), and the IELTS minimum is around 5. The equivalent English proficiency accepted by the EMGS include MUET (Malaysian University English Test), IELTS/ IELTS Online (International English Language Testing System), TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language), TOEFL Essentials (Online) (Test of English as a Foreign Language), PTE Academic/ PTE Academic (Online)(Pearson Test of English), Cambridge English – B1 Preliminary,B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency, Cambridge English – Linguaskill Online, Cambridge English – Occupational English Test (OET)(Conventional/Online), ELS – Certified Intensive English Programme Level (CIEP Level)

What is the minimum score required for English proficiency?

Minimum IELTS score of 5.0 or equivalent. MUET (Malaysian University English Test) 3.5, TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) 40, TOEFL Essentials (Online) (Test of English as a Foreign Language)7.5, PTE Academic/ PTE Academic (Online)(Pearson Test of English) 47, Cambridge English – B1 Preliminary,B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency score 154, Cambridge English – Linguaskill Online Score 154,Cambridge English – Occupational English Test (OET)(Conventional/Online), ELS – Certified Intensive English Programme Level (CIEP Level) score 107

What if I don't have the minimum requirement in English?

We have English proficiency courses to ensure that you meet the sufficient requirement. This course will be conducted by the staff at LUC.

Application Process

What is the application deadline for the PhD program?

The PhD program has three intakes every year (March, July & November). The intake following your application date will apply to you.

Do I need any recommendation letters for admission?

Recommendation letters are not required for joining the program. Academic transcripts signifying the eligibility of the candidate is sufficient to join the PhD program.

Can I apply for scholarships or financial aid?

Yes! You can also apply for external funding options, such as fellowships or governmental scholarships. For details about our scholarship schemes, kindly email admission@testing.lincoln.edu.my or imd@testing.lincoln.edu.my or finance@testing.lincoln.edu.my

Is there an interview process for PhD in Dentistry program?

A short interview/aptitude test will be conducted by the faculty of dentistry to determine the candidate’s aptitude for pursuing the PhD program.

About The Programme

Does the PhD in Dentistry program have MQA accreditation?

Our PhD in Dentistry program is Accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and Ministry of Higher Education.

Do you have mentor-mentee sessions?

Yes, we do! Every student is assigned a mentor as part of our mentor-mentee program. Your mentor will guide you throughout your academic journey, providing support in both academic and personal development. These sessions are designed to help you navigate challenges, set goals, and make the most of your time in medical school.

After my PhD in Dentistry program, what options can I pursue in Malaysia?

After the PhD in Dentistry program, you can apply for academic or research related jobs in Malaysia and abroad.

Can I request a leave of absence for personal reasons?

Yes, you can request a leave of absence for personal reasons by submitting a formal request to the academic office. Make sure to check the institution’s leave policy and provide appropriate documentation.

Accomodation

What is the price of Hostel Accommodation at LUC?

We have different types of accommodation available for Local & International Students. The price of accommodation varies based on type and location of apartment. For more details on accommodation, kindly email: hosteladmission@.lincoln.edu.my

Is Wi-Fi available at the accommodation?

Wi-Fi is available at some of our accommodation facilities.

Finance

How much is the tuition fees for PhD in Dentistry program?

We are offering competitive tuition fees for all our programs. For details about the tuition fees, kindly email admission@.lincoln.edu.my or imd@.lincoln.edu.my or finance@.lincoln.edu.my

How can I pay the tuition fees?

Payment can be made to LUC account via online transfer, Bank banking, visa card, Master card, QR code, Payment at the counter at LUC office. For university account details, kindly email admission@.lincoln.edu.my or imd@.lincoln.edu.my or finance@.lincoln.edu.my

What will happen if I have any outstanding fees?

It is important that all fees that are due be paid on time. Failure to make the payment on time may result in candidate not permitted to take up the examination or attend convocation.

Graduation Requirements

What are the minimum academic requirements to graduate ?

Students must successfully complete all compulsory research coursework (if applicable), proposal defence, progress reviews, research publication requirements (where applicable), thesis submission, and viva voce examination within the approved study duration, with final approval by the University Senate.

What is the minimum CGPA required for graduation?

CGPA is not applicable for research-based programmes. Graduation is based on successful completion of prescribed research milestones and thesis evaluation.

How many total credit hours must I complete to be eligible for graduation?

Research-based programmes do not carry conventional credit hours. Completion is based on research milestones and thesis requirements as approved by the University.

Are there compulsory core courses that must be passed before I can graduate?

Yes. Students must pass all compulsory research courses (such as Research Methodology and related research support courses, where applicable) before progressing to advanced research stages.

Is there a minimum attendance requirement to qualify for graduation?

Yes. Students are required to maintain satisfactory academic engagement, including scheduled supervision meetings, seminars, progress reviews, and other academic activities as stipulated by the programme.

Do I need to complete an internship, industrial training, or practical attachment to graduate?

No. Internship or industrial training is not required for PhD and Master by Research programmes.

Are final-year projects, theses, or capstone projects mandatory for graduation?

Yes. Submission of an original research thesis and successful completion of the viva voce examination are mandatory for graduation.

Can I graduate if I have outstanding failed or incomplete courses?

No. Students must have no failed, incomplete, or outstanding academic requirements at the point of graduation approval.

Are there specific language proficiency or exit test requirements for graduation?

There is no exit language test for graduation. However, students must demonstrate sufficient academic English proficiency to complete and defend their thesis.

What administrative or financial clearances must be completed before graduation approval?

Students must clear all outstanding fees, submit all required academic documents, and complete administrative clearance with relevant university departments prior to Senate approval.

What is the minimum duration of the program?

Master by Research: Minimum 2 years
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD): Minimum 3 years

What is the total module of the program?

Research-based programmes consist of research methodology/support courses (if applicable) and a research thesis component. There are no conventional taught modules like coursework programmes.

Is the program Course work or Research based program?

This is a fully research-based programme.

Can I take 50% course and then come back after 1 or 2 years and continue?

Yes, subject to maximum duration limits for 6 Months, visa regulations (for international students), and approval by the University. Continuous academic engagement is strongly encouraged.

Can I complete the course via Microcredits?

No. Research-based programmes cannot be completed through micro-credentials or micro-credits.

Can I enroll via UK qualification level of education such as OTHM if Yes, what level is acceptable?

Applicants with UK or other international qualifications (e.g., OTHM) may be considered subject to equivalency assessment, academic suitability, and approval by the University Senate.

Can I get visa even if I do not have English test result?

Yes. Conditional admission may be granted, subject to EMGS and University regulations, with the requirement to complete approved English proficiency support courses.

How can I get English test while visa has been issued?

Students may sit for approved English proficiency tests (e.g., IELTS or equivalent) during their study period, or complete University-approved English proficiency programmes as required.