PhD Programme in Restorative Dentistry

Programme Overview

The PhD Programme in Restorative Dentistry at Lokman Hekim University Institute of Health Sciences was established following the decision of the Higher Education Executive Board dated 11 May 2022. The standard duration of the programme is four years, and the language of instruction is Turkish.

Degree Awarded

Graduates of the programme are awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Restorative Dentistry.

Admission and Registration Requirements

Applications to the programme, entrance examinations (written examination and/or interview), evaluation procedures, and final admissions are conducted in accordance with the Graduate Education Directive of the Institute of Health Sciences at Lokman Hekim University. Detailed information regarding application criteria, assessment procedures, and registration processes is announced prior to each admission period in line with the relevant regulations.

Programme Objectives

The primary objective of the PhD Programme in Restorative Dentistry is to educate highly qualified specialists and academics who possess advanced clinical competence and scientific expertise in restorative dentistry following undergraduate dental education.

The programme aims to equip students with the ability to critically evaluate and apply contemporary restorative approaches, integrate emerging technologies into clinical practice, conduct independent scientific research, and contribute to academic knowledge production at national and international levels.

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates will be able to:

• Evaluate and apply advanced theoretical and clinical knowledge in restorative dentistry.

• Plan and implement evidence-based treatment strategies within aesthetic, preventive, and minimally invasive dentistry.

• Demonstrate clinical expertise in composite and ceramic laminate applications, composite and amalgam restorations, and inlay, onlay, and overlay restorations.

• Diagnose and manage tooth wear, perform vital and non-vital bleaching procedures, and apply fracture management techniques based on scientific evidence.

• Select and implement appropriate post systems and restorative approaches in complex clinical cases.

• Design, conduct, analyse, and report scientific research using appropriate research methodologies.

• Present scientific findings effectively in written and oral formats at national and international academic platforms.

• Act in accordance with professional ethics, academic integrity, and lifelong learning principles.

Programme Structure, Credits and ECTS

To qualify for graduation, students must complete a minimum of 21 national credits and 240 ECTS, provided that each academic semester includes at least 60 ECTS. The programme consists of compulsory and elective courses, a seminar, the doctoral qualifying examination, a thesis proposal, and the doctoral thesis. Undergraduate courses are not counted toward the doctoral workload.

Academic Regulations and Progression Rules

Students are required to complete their coursework with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 out of 4.00. Academic progression, coursework evaluation, and all programme-related regulations are governed by the Lokman Hekim University Graduate Education and Examination Regulations.

Assessment and Evaluation

All coursework, examinations, and academic assessments are conducted in accordance with the Lokman Hekim University Graduate Education and Training Regulations.

Graduation Requirements

To graduate from the programme, students must successfully complete all required coursework, fulfil the 240 ECTS requirement, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00, and successfully defend an original doctoral dissertation prepared under the supervision of a faculty advisor.

Following the thesis defence, the jury decides by absolute majority to accept, reject, or request revisions. The official graduation date corresponds to the date on which the thesis defence is successfully completed.

Mode of Study and Class Timetable

The programme is offered on a full-time basis.

Programme Contact

Prof. Dr. Feridun Hürmüzlü
Head of the Department of Restorative Dentistry
Email: feridun.hurmuzlu@lokmanhekim.edu.tr
Phone: +90 444 8 548
Extension: 63620