Students in the advanced orthodontic education program are required to demonstrate clinical and professional proficiency as well as to complete the didactic and research components of the M.S. degree prior to graduating. During the program's first year students participate in core courses, attend didactic and clinical seminars, and begin patient care. As the program progresses, didactic seminars gradually yield to research participation, while clinical seminars continue, and the volume of patient care increases. All students must perform satisfactorily on oral and written comprehensive examinations to complete the program successfully.