Dental Science

The Bachelor of Dental Science at The University of Queensland is a comprehensive and innovative undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a successful career in oral health care. This degree combines rigorous academic coursework with practical clinical training, enabling graduates to deliver high-quality dental services and contribute meaningfully to community health. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in biomedical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and biochemistry, which underpin contemporary dental practice. Students will engage in extensive hands-on experience through simulated laboratories and supervised clinical placements, working with diverse patient populations to develop their technical skills and professional competencies. The curriculum also integrates communication skills training, ethics, and professionalism to ensure graduates can establish effective patient relationships and operate ethically within the healthcare system. The program fosters an environment of research and inquiry, encouraging students to stay abreast of advancements in dental technology, materials, and evidence-based practices. With a focus on community engagement, the program prepares students to serve rural, remote, and underserved populations, promoting equitable access to oral health services. Graduates of the Bachelor of Dental Science are eligible to register as dental practitioners and are well-equipped to pursue lifelong learning, specialization, or postgraduate studies. Through collaborations with leading dental clinics and research institutes, students benefit from exposure to the latest innovations and industry standards. The program's dedicated faculty, complemented by state-of-the-art facilities, ensures a supportive learning environment that nurtures competence, confidence, and ethical practice. Upon completion, students will be prepared to meet the challenges of modern dentistry and contribute positively to their communities, advancing oral health and overall well-being.

Students will undertake approximately 1,900 hours of supervised clinical practice in a range of clinical settings including the new Oral Health Centre (OHC) as well as government and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Service clinics. During their placements, students will have the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge acquired through coursework to practice and develop their clinical skills in real life setting.

Students will commence pre-clinical (simulated) placements from semester one of the program and will move into clinics treating patients from year three.

Students may be required to undertake clinical placements outside of the Brisbane metropolitan area and students are required to fund their travel, accommodation and daily living expenses.

Entry scores

All international applicants need to meet the minimum entry score for admission into this program.

If you’re currently studying year 12 (or equivalent) in Australia or New Zealand, you need to meet this program’s minimum OP or Rank score.

If you’re currently completing your senior schooling elsewhere, you need to meet this program’s minimum equivalent international entry score.

If you’re not a current school leaver, your application will be considered on an individual basis.

Prerequisites

OP1 or Rank 99, Year 12 or equivalent English and Chemistry (Biology also recommended), and UMAT (or ISAT for international applicants).

English Proficiency

IELTS overall 7; reading 7; writing 7; speaking 7; listening 7. 

International students are eligible to apply for a number of scholarships and prizes. These may be offered by the University, the Australian Government, foreign governments, or private organisations.

The Bachelor of Dental Science at The University of Queensland is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for a career in dental practice. The program typically spans five years and offers a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and clinical experience. It aims to equip graduates with the competencies necessary to provide quality dental care, including diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral health issues. The curriculum covers various aspects of dentistry, such as oral anatomy, radiology, restorative dentistry, oral surgery, paediatric dentistry, orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and community dental health.

Students enrolled in the program have access to state-of-the-art dental facilities and a simulated clinical environment to develop their practical skills before transitioning to real patient care. The program emphasizes a patient-centered approach and promotes ethical and professional standards in dentistry. Throughout the course, students engage in community-based projects and outreach programs to gain experience in diverse clinical settings and to understand the societal aspects of oral health.

The University of Queensland's Dental Science program also incorporates research components to foster an evidence-based approach to dental practice. Students are encouraged to participate in research activities, which may include laboratory work, clinical studies, and community health research. The program is designed to meet the accreditation standards of the relevant dental councils, ensuring graduates are eligible for registration as dental practitioners in Australia and other countries with similar standards.

Graduates of the program can pursue various career pathways, including clinical practice in private dental clinics, hospitals, and community health services. They may also choose to specialize further in fields such as orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery through postgraduate training. Additionally, there are opportunities to engage in dental research, academia, or health policy development.

The University of Queensland is known for its strong emphasis on research-led teaching, which benefits students by keeping them at the forefront of advances in dental science. The program also encourages lifelong learning and continuing professional development to ensure practitioners remain competent and up-to-date throughout their careers. Overall, the Bachelor of Dental Science at The University of Queensland aims to produce well-rounded, highly skilled dental professionals committed to improving oral health outcomes within their communities.