Dentistry

The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) at the University of the Witwatersrand is a comprehensive and rigorous programme designed to prepare students for a successful career in dentistry. This programme provides students with a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of dental medicine, combining intensive classroom learning, laboratory work, and clinical training. The curriculum covers a wide array of subjects including oral anatomy, pathology, radiology, restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, orthodontics, periodontology, oral surgery, pediatric dentistry, and community dentistry. Students are engaged in early patient contact, which fosters the development of clinical skills and professional competence from the onset of their studies.

The programme aims to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding necessary to provide comprehensive dental care to diverse populations. Emphasizing evidence-based practice, the course encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and continuous learning. It also incorporates modern technologies and current advancements in dental research to ensure students are well-prepared for the evolving landscape of dental health services. Throughout their training, students participate in practical workshops, simulated patient exercises, and supervised clinical procedures in university clinics, gaining valuable real-world experience. The programme culminates in a mandatory internship period, enabling students to refine their clinical skills under supervision before qualifying as registered dentists.

The University of the Witwatersrand prides itself on its commitment to academic excellence and community service, reflected in the programme’s focus on oral health promotion, prevention, and outreach. Graduates of this programme are fully equipped to enter the workforce as competent, ethical, and compassionate dental practitioners, ready to serve patients across a range of healthcare settings. With a dynamic blend of science, clinical practice, and community engagement, the Bachelor of Dental Surgery at Wits prepares students not only to succeed professionally but also to contribute meaningfully to improving oral health in South Africa and beyond.

• Oral Rehabilitation
• Orthodontics & Paediatric Dentistry
• Oral Medicine & Periodontology
• Maxillofacial & Oral Surgery
• Oral Pathology
• Community Dentistry
• General Dental Practice
• Oral Biological Sciences

• A masters degree from Wits or another university;
• A graduate of this or another university who holds a degree in another faculty whose curriculum has ordinarily extended over not less than four academic years of full-time study
• A supervisor from the Faculty of  Humanities must be identified and approached prior to application
• Detailed CV
• Degree certificates and transcripts
• SAQA evaluation
• Proof of payment of application fee
• Letter from Dept. confirming offer
• Confirmation from Department of supervisor are required

The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program at the University of the Witwatersrand offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees are determined annually and are published on the university's official website, with costs varying depending on the year of study and residency status. International students may be required to pay higher fees compared to South African residents. The university provides a range of financial aid opportunities, including government-funded bursaries, scholarships, and grants for eligible students. These financial assistance programs aim to reduce the economic barrier to accessing dental education and encourage a diverse student body.

Students are encouraged to apply for funding early, as the application processes have specific deadlines that must be adhered to. Apart from external funding sources, the university also offers internal bursaries based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the student's background or field of interest. For example, there are scholarships for students committed to serving underserved communities or pursuing research in public health dentistry.

In addition to bursaries and scholarships, students may explore loan options available through government or private lenders, which can provide significant financial support. Repayment terms, interest rates, and eligibility requirements vary depending on the lender but are generally structured to assist students in managing the financial burden during and after their studies. The university also recommends students to seek advice from the financial aid office for guidance on available options and assistance with application processes.

Cost of living expenses, including accommodation, food, transport, and study materials, should also be factored into the total financing plan. The university campus offers a range of on-campus accommodation options, some of which are subsidized, while off-campus living costs vary depending on location and lifestyle choices. Students are advised to prepare budgets and explore part-time work opportunities where permitted, to support their financial stability.

In conclusion, financing a dentistry degree at the University of the Witwatersrand involves a combination of tuition fees, living expenses, and potential financial aid. Early planning and proactive engagement with the university's financial aid services are essential for securing necessary funds. The university is committed to making dental education accessible through its diverse funding mechanisms, ensuring that talented students can pursue their career goals without undue financial hardship.

The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) at the University of the Witwatersrand is a comprehensive undergraduate degree program designed to prepare students for a career in dentistry. The program typically spans six years and combines theoretical coursework, practical clinical training, and research components to ensure graduates are well-equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills, and professional competencies. Students will begin their studies with foundational sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and microbiology, which are essential for understanding the human body and oral health. As they progress, the curriculum includes specialized dental subjects such as oral anatomy, dental materials, periodontology, paediatric dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, prosthodontics, endodontics, and radiology.

Throughout the program, students participate in extensive clinical training within university dental clinics, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge to real patient care under supervision. This practical experience is crucial for developing clinical skills, diagnostic acumen, and patient management abilities. The program also emphasizes the importance of ethics, communication skills, and professionalism in dental practice, preparing students to serve diverse patient populations responsibly and compassionately.

Research is an integral part of the curriculum, encouraging students to engage in scientific inquiry and evidence-based practice. Students may undertake research projects or dissertations, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The program is designed to meet the requirements for registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), enabling graduates to practise dentistry professionally within South Africa and potentially internationally.

Entry into the program is competitive, requiring strong academic performance and relevant qualifications. The program aims to produce dentists who are not only clinically competent but also committed to continuous learning and professional development. Graduates of the BDS program at Wits Dental School often pursue careers in private practice, community health, hospital dentistry, or academia. The university also offers postgraduate specialization options and advanced degrees for those interested in further advancing their careers in areas such as oral surgery, orthodontics, or periodontology.