A guided reading seminar course covering classical theories of craniofacial growth. References are cited refuting or supporting these theories. Students learn not only about the scientific and clinical evidence to support the six main theories of craniofacial growth and development, but they also learn to critically analyze this evidence and apply it to their own understanding and clinical exposure. The objective of the second part of the course is to give the student an understanding and working knowledge of the current concept of craniofacial growth at the molecular and genetic levels. Key aspects of craniofacial embryology, general concepts of patterning in development, pattering in craniofacial development and the molecular basis of a specific craniofacial disorder are discussed. This involves recent research advances in molecular biologic factors in facial growth as well as the clinical relevance of craniofacial growth.