Enhanced Support Dentistry Programme BDS drafted
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Enhanced Support Dentistry Programme (ESDP) at King's College London is a 5-year undergraduate program designed for talented students from non-selective state schools who aspire to become dentists. The program combines strong academic foundations with extensive clinical practice, emphasizing whole-patient care and fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Graduates are well-prepared for successful careers as general practitioners or in specialized dental fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Enhanced Support Dentistry Programme (ESDP) is a 5-year undergraduate program offered by King's College London. This program is specifically designed for talented students from non-selective state schools within a London borough who are interested in pursuing a career in dentistry.
Objectives:
- Provide additional academic support to talented students from non-selective state schools
- Combine the latest advancements in dental education with early clinical experience
- Prepare students for successful careers as dentists by emphasizing whole-patient care
- Foster a diverse and inclusive learning environment
Description:
The ESDP offers an exceptional learning experience that blends strong academic foundations with extensive clinical practice. Students gain a deep understanding of biomedical sciences and how they relate to dentistry. They are also introduced to the clinical aspects of dentistry and dental technology, learning the relevance of basic science in real-world situations. The program places significant emphasis on whole-patient care, requiring students to consider not just dental needs but also patients’ overall medical conditions and social circumstances. This holistic approach prepares graduates to become well-rounded and compassionate dental professionals. The ESDP faculty comprises internationally renowned staff, ensuring students receive instruction from experts in the field. Students also benefit from a rich curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Biomedicine
- Clinical Practice
- Dentistry in Society
- Simulated Clinical Practice
- Research and Innovation
- Interprofessional Collaboration
Biomedical Sciences:
Students gain foundational knowledge in subjects like anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and microbiology.
Clinical Practice:
Students receive extensive hands-on training in diagnosis, treatment planning, and management of various oral diseases and conditions. They gain experience in preventive dentistry, restorative dentistry, oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, and prosthodontics.
Dentistry in Society:
This component focuses on the social, ethical, and legal aspects of dentistry. Students explore topics such as public health dentistry, health promotion, patient communication, and ethical decision-making.
Simulated Clinical Practice:
Students gain valuable experience in simulated environments before entering clinical settings. This allows them to practice skills and procedures in a safe and controlled setting.
Research and Innovation:
The program encourages students to engage in research activities, fostering critical thinking and understanding of the latest advancements in dental science.
Interprofessional Collaboration:
Students learn alongside students from other healthcare disciplines, fostering teamwork and understanding of interprofessional collaboration.
Program Structure:
The program is divided into modules, totaling 780 credits over the 5-year duration. Students typically take modules totaling 120 credits in each year of study.
Course Schedule:
- Year 1: Biomedical sciences and topics relevant to the practice of dentistry are the primary focus. Students are also introduced to basic clinical aspects and dental technology.
- Year 2: Students continue building upon their foundational knowledge in biomedical sciences while delving deeper into clinical skills and techniques.
- Year 3: This stage marks a shift towards a greater emphasis on clinical practice. Students spend a significant portion of their time in clinical settings, gaining practical experience under the supervision of experienced dentists.
- Year 4: Further development of clinical expertise and refinement of technical skills occur in year 4. Students also participate in rotations in diverse clinical settings, including community dental practices.
- Year 5: The final year focuses on solidifying students' clinical competency through extensive clinical practice.
Assessment:
Methods:
- Coursework, including assignments, presentations, and practical demonstrations, comprises a significant portion of the assessment.
- Written and practical examinations assess students' theoretical understanding and clinical skills.
- Ongoing competence-based simulation or clinical assessments are conducted throughout the program. Passing these assessments is required to progress to the next level.
Assessment Criteria:
- Coursework, written, and practical examinations contribute 100% to the final mark for each module.
- Competence assessments (CAFs) must be passed but do not contribute directly to the overall mark.
Teaching:
Methods:
The ESDP employs an engaging approach to teaching that combines face-to-face instruction with innovative technology to provide a rich and interactive learning experience. This includes lectures, tutorials, seminars, workshops, problem-based learning activities, and online learning resources.
Faculty:
The program benefits from expert instruction delivered by internationally-renowned staff and experienced dental professionals. This ensures a high standard of teaching and provides students with access to valuable insights from leading figures in the field.
Unique Approaches:
The ESDP fosters a supportive learning environment that caters to the needs of students from non-selective state schools. The program also emphasizes diversity and inclusion to create a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.
Selection Process:
- Applications are ranked based on GCSE/IGCSE performance, UCAT results, and contextual information.
Careers:
Career Pathways:
Graduates of the ESDP have access to multiple career pathways. Many pursue roles as general practitioners in private or NHS-funded dental surgeries, others pursue further specialization or academic careers.
