Medical Education Management ›› 2017, Vol. 3 ›› Issue (1): 23-27.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.2096-045X.2017.01.006

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Differences and characteristics of the dental degree between China and USA

Zhang Hua   

  1. Essential Teaching and Research Section, Dental School, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050,China
  • Received:2016-11-28 Online:2017-02-20

Abstract: Purpose Based on materilas from a dental school in USA and a dental school in China, to compare the differences in educational systems, length of schooling and subjects between the two countries. Materials and methods The materials from the Dental School of University South California (USC) and those from Faculty of Stomatology of Capital Medical University were compared in the curriculum, the period and the concept about degree for finding the differences and similarities between two countries. Results After the comparison, the findings were: 1. Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene in US was similar to that of the junior college in China ( 70% superposable curriculum) . This Bachelor Degree can be obtained in USA, but in China only a deploma of junior college is issued. 2. The curriculum for DDS in USA was 68% superposable with that for Chinese Dental Bachelor, but the schooling was three years longer than that in China. This schooling was as long as Chinese Dental Bachelor plus 3 year’s residency. However, DDS is a degree higher than bachelor while we get no more degrees after 3 year’s residency in China. Conclusion 1. DDS in US is similar to Chinese Dental Bachelor plus 3 year’s residency. 2. DDS is a same level degree with PhD but is used in a different field. 3. The mistake in the concept of dental degree in China can lead to inequity and bring about inequitable situation.