Evaluation of the dental curriculum at the University of Basel. Does the Master of Dental Medicine adequately prepare for the professional practice?

The present study reports the results of a structured survey of graduates intending to evaluate the education at the Dental School of the University of Basel in the years from 2006 to 2014. In addition, dentists and practice owners supervising graduates from Basel in daily clinical routine or hiring them as assistant dentists were questioned. The aims of the current survey were (1) to analyze own subjective experiences, (2) to assess potential differences between the cohorts prior to and after the implementation of the Bologna reform, (3) to compare the rating regarding theoretical knowledge and practical skills, and (4) to disclose potential for improvement. It was found that according to both their own assessment and the rating of the practice owners, graduates possess the basic dental expertise. The alumni rated their theoretical knowledge higher than their clinical practical skills and indicated a potential for intensification in the fields of dental surgery and implantology. When comparing the cohorts who had completed their studies according to the old (until 2010) and new study regulations, there were only minor differences; the own skills related to patient information about treatments were better rated by alumni who had been trained according to the new study regulations. The curriculum leading to the Master of Dental Medicine at the University of Basel fundamentally prepares graduates for the professional activity, but the additional acquisition of clinical experience in daily practice is indispensable.