Message from the Dean

Originally founded in April 1951 as Osaka University School of Dentistry, this was the first dental school among the former imperial universities that functioned independently of a medical school. Since that time, our school has taken responsibility to provide the highest standard of dental education to our students, aiming to nurture future leaders who will lead dental communities, not only in Japan but also throughout the world.

Presently, enrolled students first take general education courses in order to cultivate comprehensive understanding, judgment, and a rich sense of humanity, as well as enhance their skills and desire for self-motivated learning. Beginning in the second year, basic subjects, such as anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry, are studied, while in the fourth year, subjects related to clinical dentistry are the primary focus. In the fifth year, each student will take two nationally standardized examinations to assess their abilities and aptitude prior to entering clinical practice. After passing the examinations, from the latter half of the fifth to the sixth year they will engage in clinical practice as so-called “Clinical Clerkship Students” under the supervision of dentists providing care at The University of Osaka Dental Hospital

Following graduation from a dental school that provided a formal course of study, students must pass the national examination for dentists administered by the Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare in order to receive a dental license as an important step toward becoming a dentist. Since 2006, at least one year of clinical training has been mandatory after graduation from university. Thereafter, subsequent possible career paths include entering graduate school, or working at a city hospital or dental clinic.

The University of Osaka School of Dentistry aims to develop outstanding human resources by providing a curriculum designed by faculty members who are well versed in their respective fields. We are confident that active study at our world-leading dental school will provide valuable learning to guide dental students towards a bright future in which they can contribute as outstanding dentists and researchers.

Dean, Prof. Kazuhiko NAKANO