Dentistry

Program overview

The Dentistry program at Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) is a joint program with the University of Health Sciences of Turkey (SBU), one of the most sought-after programs of the Faculty of Dentistry. It is a 5-year full-time undergraduate program leading to the Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.D.M.) degree.

The joint nature of the program combines the academic resources and clinical experience of both institutions and provides students with a comprehensive education in dental medicine. The program builds the knowledge, skills and clinical experience needed for competent dental practice.

The first two years (preclinical stage) are spent at EMU in Northern Cyprus; the clinical years (3rd–5th) at the SBU Faculty of Dentistry in Istanbul and in hospitals across Turkey. Graduates receive the D.D.M. degree, which qualifies them for professional practice in dentistry.

Faculty mission and vision

The fundamental mission of the EMU Faculty of Dentistry is to train competent dentists for society: quality services, patient safety and focused research in oral health. The faculty follows humanistic and ethical principles, applies scientific knowledge and research findings, and meets the needs and expectations of patients.

The program aims for internationally recognized excellence: independent critical thinking within academic and ethical values, a student-centered approach, attention to staff satisfaction and harmonious cooperation with external partners.

Structure of the program

The program is delivered within a joint educational cooperation between the EMU Faculty of Dentistry and the Faculty of Dentistry of the University of Health Sciences of Turkey (SBU) and lasts 5 years.

• Preclinical stage (years 1–2, EMU, Famagusta): fundamental and basic dental disciplines, work in preclinical laboratories in Northern Cyprus.
• Clinical stage (years 3–5, SBU, Istanbul): clinical rotations and patient practice at the SBU Faculty of Dentistry and in hospitals across Turkey.

The official language of the program is 30% English and 70% Turkish. During preclinical training, international students study Turkish, as it is required for doctor–patient communication at the clinical stage.

The joint program combines education, research and patient care, giving students the opportunity to be part of the latest dental research. The common curriculum integrates fundamental scientific education and clinical teaching into community-based learning.

What you will study

The curriculum covers a wide range of medical science disciplines with a focus on dentistry. Key areas include:

• Fundamental medical sciences — anatomy, physiology, biochemistry
• Oral biology and pathology
• Dental materials and techniques
• Clinical dentistry — therapeutic, prosthetic, periodontology, endodontics, surgery
• Pediatric dentistry and orthodontics
• Community dentistry and public health
• Radiology and diagnostics

Students take part in theoretical courses, laboratory classes and clinical rotations, gaining practical patient care experience. The joint nature of the program opens access to diverse clinical settings and the expertise of faculty from both universities.

Facilities and clinic

The EMU Faculty of Dentistry provides quality teaching thanks to an experienced, internationally recognized academic staff. Lecturers create a highly interactive atmosphere in classes and practical sessions, ensuring a rigorous yet supportive educational environment for students' academic, personal and professional development.

• EMU's own dental clinic (EMU Dentistry Clinic) for students' practical training.
• Modern scientific and teaching laboratories designed to the latest standards.
• Structured research training: students learn to interpret evidence-based dentistry and take part in research projects.
• Clinical base in Istanbul — the SBU Faculty of Dentistry and hospitals in Turkey at the clinical stage.

Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and analysis from the earliest courses and to express their ideas freely and constructively.

Career prospects

Graduates of the dental medicine program are ready for careers as licensed dentists in private practice, public clinics, hospitals or academic institutions.

• Private practice — own clinic or work in dental centers.
• Public clinics and hospitals — work in the healthcare system.
• Specialization — orthodontics, maxillofacial surgery, pediatric dentistry, periodontology.
• Academic career and research — teaching and scientific work.

The D.D.M. degree is internationally recognized, opening opportunities for practice or further study abroad. The demand for dentists remains high worldwide, ensuring stable and promising career opportunities.

Admission

Admission to the Dentistry program is competitive and requires strong academic preparation in science subjects. Applicants must meet EMU's general admission requirements and the specific criteria of the joint program.

Main documents for application:

• International passport valid for at least 6 months from the application date
• High school diploma
• Transcript of high school grades
• Passport-size photos
• English language certificate (IELTS, TOEFL and similar)

If documents are not issued in English, an official translation is required along with the originals. International students are advised to check special admission requirements and application deadlines in advance. Our EMU Partner team will support you through the entire admission process — from consultation to receiving your acceptance letter.