Master of Dental Surgery: Admission 2025, Syllabus, Eligibility, Fees, Colleges, Careers

Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) is a PG degree course (3 years) that focuses on assessing both theoretical knowledge of and supervision of clinical work in specialties of Dentistry (Orthodontics, Prosthodontics, Periodontics and Oral Surgery to name a few). The program prepares students to become practitioners, educators and researchers of specialized Dentistry.

The eligibility requirement is that candidates must have already completed Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) before starting an MDS course and also be a registered Dental Surgeon in its own right with the Dental Council of India (DCI). Most students gain admission to MDS programs by completing the NEET MDS exam, which is conducted by National Board of Examinations (NBE).

There are many universities / colleges offering MDS courses including Manipal College of Dental Sciences, DY Patil University, School of Dentistry, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences and many others. The cost of education will vary greatly between applicants - but can range between INR 20 lakhs - INR 60 lakhs depending on the educational source and specialty.

Mainly general career prospects are specialist Dental Surgeons, Researches, Professors and Consultants employed in general or private practice (Dental Clinics), teaching institutions and public health sector jobs.

Master of Dental Surgery Highlights

Take a quick glance at the essential course facts such as duration, eligibility, admission criteria, job roles, and fee structure for Master of Dental Surgery.

What is a Master of Dental Surgery?

MDS is a special qualification that provides advanced knowledge and clinical experience in a specific area of dentistry. The MDS course consists of theoretical classes, comprehensive clinical training and residency, and also research-based learning that prepare students for complex and sophisticated procedures and impacting advancements in oral healthcare.

In the first year of MDS, students will focus on an area of study to specialize in and will engage in a variety of clinical training, working with patients, and dissertation.

Why Study Master of Dental Surgery?

Here are some reasons that taking an MDS course is suitable for dental academy graduates looking to grow professionally and financially.

• Specialization in a dental field, (e.g. Orthodontics, Oral Pathology, Prosthodontics).
• Professional Development, senior roles in hospitals, private practice, and academia.
• Research involvement, thesis work and promotes academic research.
• Higher Salary as MDS graduates are paid more than BDS graduates.
• Certificates recognized by international dental councils and institutions.

Who should study for a Master of Dental Surgery?

Discover who gains the most from this degree and also, which profiles are geared for advanced dental education.

This program is for:

• BDS members looking to build clinical knowledge.
• Dental professionals interested in specializing.
• Individuals wanting to enter academic training and research.
• People looking to migrate or practice dentistry in another country.

Master of Dental Surgery Eligibility Criteria

Learn about the educational qualifications or contacts required to enroll in an MDS degree program in India.

Eligibility to get into a Master of Dental Surgery program:

• Candidates must have completed a BDS degree from a DCI-recognized university or institution.
• Shall have completed a mandatory one-year internship.
• Must be registered with the Dental Council of India or State Dental Council.
• Have a valid NEET MDS score (most colleges mandate passing an exam).

Master of Dental Surgery Entrance Exams 2025

Find the important dates and application details for NEET MDS, the common entrance exam for MDS admissions.

Master of Dental Surgery Colleges in India

Some of the top institutions where you can pursue Master of Dental Surgery are mentioned below. Explore the top MDS colleges in India along with their location, fee structure, and mode of admission.

Master of Dental Surgery Admission Process 2025

If you would like to apply for the MDS program at Manipal College of Dental Sciences, you should use NEET PG counseling methods which are as follows, applicable from passing BDS from a university recognized by the DCI, and completing your internship by the deadline set by DCI/State Dental Council:

Step 1: Successfully complete your BDS and internship as above.

Step 2: Obtain Permanent Registration certificate from DCI/State Dental Council.

Step 3: Register, qualify, and appear for the NEET PG 2025 exam.

Step 4: Complete online registration and fill in your choices on MCC (for All India seats) or KEA (for Karnataka state seats).

Step 5: Participate in online MCC or KEA counseling and seat allotment

Step 6: Report to your allotted institute and complete your admission process by document verification and payment of fees.

Required Documents:

• Bachelor’s degree mark sheets and certificate
• Transfer/Migration certificate (if applicable)
• Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, etc.)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Entrance exam scorecard (if required)

Master of Dental Surgery Syllabus

The MDS (Master of Dental Surgery) syllabus for specific specialisation areas have little difference in format, most have theoretical components, practical work, and research components, below is a structured MDS syllabus in Teerthanker Mahaveer University.

Click to know about higher studies after MDS, PhD in Dental Science

Master of Dental Surgery Job Opportunities in India

Explore promising job profiles and salary insights for MDS graduates across clinical and academic roles in dentistry.

Master of Dental Surgery FAQs