It is the policy of the Dental Branch to support the professional development of its administrative and professional (A&P), and classified staff.

The Administrative and Professional (A&P) classification is subdivided into academic A&P and management A&P based on the requirements of the position. The incumbent in an academic A&P position holds a faculty appointment in conjunction with the administrative appointment; academic credentials are essential for the position. Management A&P employees hold senior positions as heads of an operating unit, a department, or division/program within a department.

All academic A&P development activities are the supported by the UTHSC-H Dental Branch Office of Professional Development (OPD). OPD has implemented a Faculty Development and Evaluation Process that incorporates the policy stated in Section 4.07 of the Handbook of Operating Procedures (HOOP). For detailed information on development activities, refer to the Faculty Development and Evaluation Process.

To ensure that management A&P personnel and classified personnel remain current with new developments in their respective areas of expertise, the Dental Branch encourages participation in courses and programs that expand and enhance work-related skills and abilities. Refer to Sections 2.44, 2.45 and 3.07 in the HOOP for policies regarding internal and external courses and professional development. Also see Training at the People Works website for a listing of available internal courses.