Oral Health Policy Scholars
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Preparing the Next Generation of Policy Advocacy Leaders in Oral Health
The Oral Health Policy Scholars initiative is a flagship component of the UNC at Chapel Hill Adams School of Dentistry’s Program for Oral Health Policy (POHP). Designed for pre-doctoral dental students who are passionate about advocacy and systems-level change, this one-year, immersive experience offers unparalleled opportunities to gain hands-on experience in oral health policy advocacy. By integrating didactic learning with real-world application, the Scholars initiative equips students with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to drive meaningful transformation in the oral health care system.
What is the Oral Health Policy Scholars Initiative?
The Oral Health Policy Scholars Initiative is an application-based program that begins in the fall of the D2 year and continues through the D3 year. The Scholars initiative offers a comprehensive approach to policy advocacy education, focusing on three key areas:
- Scholars engage in specialized seminars that cover health systems science, systems thinking design, policy analysis, translational research methodologies, population-and-community health analysis, and advanced advocacy strategy development, among others.
- Each Scholar is paired with a mentor who has expertise in health policy, providing personalized guidance and support throughout the program.
- Scholars have access to guest lectures, workshops, and seminars featuring leading voices in health policy, offering unique insights into current issues and trends.
- The core of the initiative is an externship with a North Carolina government agency, legislative office, regulatory non-governmental organization, or payer organization.
- Externships provide Scholars with hands-on exposure to the policy advocacy process, allowing them to work directly with decision-makers and gain experience in policy development, analysis, and implementation.
- Scholars have the opportunity to present their findings and policy recommendations to key stakeholders, contributing to ongoing discussions about health system improvements.
- In addition to coursework and externships, Scholars are involved in policy-focused community-based, participatory research projects that explore critical issues in oral health care, such as workforce development, value-based care, and access to services for underserved and marginalized populations. The findings from these projects will culminate in a final report, serving as the Scholar’s capstone.
- These projects are supported by faculty advisors and may involve collaboration with partners at the UNC Sheps Center for Health Services Research, Gillings School of Global Public Health, or related entities, agencies, and academic partners.
- Scholars will present their research findings at conferences, policy forums, and/or in peer-reviewed publications, showcasing their contributions to the field.
Why Become an Oral Health Policy Scholar?
The Oral Health Policy Scholars Initiative offers a unique, career-enhancing experience that goes beyond traditional clinical training. Oral Health Policy Scholars will also be recognized at graduation and receive special designation on their academic transcripts. As a Scholar, you will:
- Develop Expertise in Health Policy: Gain a deep understanding of the health systems and policies that impact oral health care, preparing you to be a knowledgeable advocate for change.
- Build a Professional Network: Connect with leaders in the fields of health policy, public health, government, and insurance, expanding your network and opening doors to alternative career paths in advocacy and health policy leadership.
- Enhance Your Clinical Perspective: Learn how systemic issues affect clinical practice and patient outcomes, equipping you with a broader view of health care delivery.
- Gain Real-World Experience: Through paid externships and applied research, you’ll have the chance to contribute to policy discussions and initiatives that impact oral healthcare access and equity.
Program Eligibility and Application Process
- A strong interest in health policy and advocacy
- A commitment to advancing health equity and access
- Excellent communication and analytical skills
- A desire to explore career opportunities beyond traditional clinical roles
- Completed application form (available online)
- A personal statement (750 words or less) outlining your interest in the Scholars initiative and your vision for the future of oral health care
- Two letters of recommendation (at least one from an ASOD faculty member)
- Updated CV
Key dates for the upcoming Cohort are as follows:
- Application Opens: August 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
- Interviews: August 18 – 22, 2025
- Selection Notification: September 1, 2025
- Program Start: Sept. 8, 2025
The Oral Health Policy Scholars initiative is your chance to be part of a transformative experience that prepares you for a leadership role in the future of oral health care. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity!
Reach out to oralhealthpolicy@dentistry.unc.edu to learn more and apply for the next cohort to become an Oral Health Policy Scholar and join a community of changemakers dedicated to advancing oral health equity and innovation through policy advocacy.
Contact
Mailing Address
UNC Adams School of Dentistry
Program for Oral Health Policy
Attn: Dr. Zachary Brian
385 S Columbia St.
Chapel Hill, NC, 27599