Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:
The Master of Science Program in Prosthodontics (International Program) at Khon Kaen University is dedicated to developing highly skilled specialists in the field of dental prosthetics. The program's core philosophy is to integrate advanced dental knowledge with modern technology to solve complex oral and maxillofacial problems. This strong emphasis on research, innovation, and the application of digital technology directly aligns with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). By training professionals in the use of advanced materials and digital tools, the program enhances the quality and accessibility of dental care.
Furthermore, as an international program, it inherently promotes SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange. The curriculum's focus on research and professional ethics also contributes to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), preparing graduates who are not only technically proficient but also ethically responsible and capable of contributing to a robust healthcare system.
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-beingAlignment Summary: The program is a direct contributor to good health and well-being by training specialists who restore oral function and aesthetics for patients, thereby improving their overall health and quality of life. The curriculum focuses on advanced techniques and materials to ensure long-term dental solutions that are safe and effective.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| DT 777 711 | Dental Materials in Prosthodontics | This course focuses on the properties and application of modern materials used to restore oral function, directly contributing to Target 3.8 by improving the quality of patient care through durable and safe dental treatments. |
| DT 777 712 | Principles of Prosthodontics | This foundational course teaches the comprehensive principles of oral restoration, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the knowledge to provide effective and holistic dental care, which is a key component of universal health coverage (Target 3.8). |
| DT 777 713 | Complete Denture Prosthodontics | Provides specialized knowledge in treating patients with edentulism, a significant health issue for the elderly. This aligns with Target 3.4 to reduce non-communicable diseases and promote health and well-being for all ages. |
| DT 777 811 | Prosthodontic Clinic I | This clinical course focuses on providing actual patient care, which is essential for improving health outcomes and strengthening the capacity of the healthcare workforce (Target 3.C). |
SDG 4: Quality EducationAlignment Summary: The program is a model of quality education, designed to provide specialized, high-level training in a niche field. Its emphasis on self-directed learning, research, and seminars ensures that students acquire the advanced technical and professional skills necessary for high-level employment and continuous professional development.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| DT 777 891 | Seminar in Prosthodontics I | Promotes lifelong learning (Target 4.3) by requiring students to engage in self-directed research, present their findings, and participate in academic discussions to stay current with advances in their field. |
| DT 777 892 | Seminar in Prosthodontics II | Continues to foster advanced learning and the dissemination of knowledge, essential for maintaining a high standard of professional practice (Target 4.3). |
| DT 777 893 | Seminar in Prosthodontics III | Further develops critical thinking and presentation skills, preparing students for professional careers and research roles (Target 4.4). |
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and InfrastructureAlignment Summary: The program contributes to innovation and infrastructure by training professionals in the use of cutting-edge dental technologies and promoting research in dental materials and techniques. Its curriculum embraces new developments, such as laser technology and digital workflows, which are essential for the modernization and advancement of the dental industry.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| DT 368 107 | Laser in Dentistry | This course focuses on the application of laser technology, a key innovation in dentistry, directly supporting Target 9.5 (enhancing scientific research and technological capabilities). |
| DT 368 108 | Digital Dentistry | By teaching students to use digital tools for diagnosis and treatment planning, this course promotes the technological upgrading of the dental health infrastructure (Target 9.B). |
SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong InstitutionsAlignment Summary: The program fosters strong and ethical institutions by instilling professional integrity, accountability, and the ability to critically evaluate information. The emphasis on evidence-based practice and seminars ensures that graduates act with transparency and contribute to a reliable and trustworthy healthcare system.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| DT 777 891 | Seminar in Prosthodontics I | Promotes critical thinking and the use of evidence-based information, which is foundational to building effective, accountable, and transparent institutions (Target 16.6). |
| DT 777 892 | Seminar in Prosthodontics II | Continues to develop skills in professional presentation and ethical conduct, reinforcing the values of justice and integrity in professional practice (Target 16.6). |
SDG 17: Partnerships for the GoalsAlignment Summary: As an international program at the postgraduate level, the curriculum inherently promotes partnerships for sustainable development. It fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange through seminars and research, encouraging students to engage with a global body of academic work and contribute their own findings to the international community.
| Course Code | Course Title | Alignment Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| DT 777 891 | Seminar in Prosthodontics I | This course promotes global partnerships by requiring students to collect, analyze, and present information from a wide range of national and international academic sources (Target 17.6). |
| DT 777 893 | Seminar in Prosthodontics III | The capstone seminar requires students to present their advanced research, which is often intended for publication, thereby contributing to the global scientific community and knowledge-sharing (Target 17.6). |