| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Dental Surgery BDS program at Newcastle University is a 5-year undergraduate program that equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experience to become Dentists. The program features a dynamic curriculum that integrates theoretical and practical learning experiences, preparing graduates for lifelong learning and ethical practice within the evolving dental landscape. Graduates are well-equipped for a diverse range of career options within the dental profession, including general practice, publicly funded services, teaching, and specialist care.
Program Outline
Dental Surgery BDS (Newcastle University)
Degree Overview
The Dental Surgery BDS program at Newcastle University is a professionally accredited, 5-year undergraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experience required to become a Dentist.
Program Objectives:
- Equip graduates with the scientific knowledge, clinical skills, and professional values necessary for excellence in dental practice.
- Foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities alongside a commitment to evidence-based decision-making.
- Cultivate strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective patient interaction and teamwork within the healthcare environment.
- Provide a comprehensive understanding of oral health, disease, and treatment, encompassing a wide range of dental specialties.
- Prepare graduates for lifelong learning and ethical practice within the evolving dental landscape.
Program Description:
The Dental Surgery BDS program features a dynamic curriculum that integrates theoretical and practical learning experiences.
Students engage in:
- Lectures and seminars: Gaining foundational knowledge in dental sciences, clinical practice, and professional development.
- Laboratory demonstrations: Observing and practicing key dental techniques in a controlled setting.
- Clinical practice: Gradually transitioning from observing senior students to managing their own patients under supervision, culminating in independent patient care in later stages.
- Research opportunities: Engaging in research projects and electives, fostering independent inquiry and critical analysis.
Professional Accreditation:
This program is fully accredited by the General Dental Council (GDC), enabling graduates to practice dentistry in the UK and numerous other countries.
Outline
Program Structure:
The program is structured across five years, with each year progressively building upon the knowledge and skills acquired in previous stages.
Year 1:
- Focuses on foundational scientific disciplines relevant to dentistry, such as cell biology, metabolism, anatomy, interpersonal skills, and dental physiology.
- Introduces clinical exposure through shadowing senior students in clinics, observing treatment, and relating theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
Year 2:
- Expands upon the scientific basis of evidence-based dentistry and explores essential subjects such as immunology, pharmacology, craniofacial biology, psychology, and microbiology.
- Deepens clinical engagement by practicing procedures like periodontal management, initial stages of root treatment, and phantom head exercises with artificial teeth.
- Emphasizes developing communication skills, reflection, and integrating diverse skills for holistic patient care.
Year 3:
- Initiates independent patient management under close supervision, covering simple treatments such as prevention, fillings, root canals, gum disease management, and denture fabrication.
- Introduces extraction techniques and basic surgical procedures.
- Incorporates radiography training, local anesthetic administration, and infection control protocols.
- Continues theoretical instruction in pathology and microbiology, providing foundational understanding of disease processes.
- Delivers lectures and practical courses in areas like radiology, preventive dentistry, periodontology, crown and bridgework, advanced endodontics, gerodontology, and oral medicine.
Year 4:
- Dedicates approximately half of the academic year to direct patient care and clinical practice, with supporting clinical-related teaching.
- Introduces advanced techniques like orthodontics, dental implants, and intravenous sedation.
- Gradually increases clinical responsibilities leading to independent practice under the guidance of expert clinicians.
Year 5:
- Maintains extensive clinical practice, managing complex patient cases independently and applying advanced skills honed throughout the program.
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
The program employs diverse assessment methods to comprehensively evaluate students' knowledge, skills, and professional development. These include:
- Assignments (written or fieldwork)
- Case studies
- Coursework
- Essays
- Examinations (practical or online)
- Group work
- Interviews
- Portfolio submission
- Practical sessions
- Presentations
- Projects
- Reflective reports/journals
- Reports
- Seminar tasks/exercises The specific weight of each assessment method varies depending on the module and course content.
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
The program utilizes a blended approach to teaching, incorporating:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Laboratory demonstrations (including closed-circuit TV)
- Practical laboratory work
- Clinical demonstrations Lectures and seminars primarily provide foundational knowledge and theoretical understanding, while laboratory and clinical sessions emphasize practical skills development and experiential learning.
Teaching Faculty:
The program benefits from the expertise of distinguished faculty members who are actively engaged in research and clinical practice. They bring their real-world experience and knowledge to the classroom, ensuring students receive a rigorous and contemporary education.
Unique Teaching Approach:
The program fosters a supportive learning environment that emphasizes active student participation and critical thinking. Small group discussions, case-based learning, and simulation exercises enhance engagement and deepen understanding.
Careers
Career Paths:
Graduates of the program are well-equipped for a diverse range of career options within the dental profession, including:
- General Practice: Joining a Dental Foundation Programme, working under a senior dentist and gaining experience in a broad range of dental procedures.
- Publicly Funded Services: Providing dental care within the Community Dental Service, focusing on underserved populations.
- Teaching: Pursuing academic careers, teaching and inspiring future generations of dental professionals.
- Specialist Care: Advancing expertise in chosen areas of dentistry, such as orthodontics or oral surgery, and providing specialized treatment in hospitals or private practice settings.
Graduate Prospects:
The program boasts a high employment rate, with nearly all graduates successfully securing positions within six months of graduation.
Career Support:
The university's award-winning Careers Service provides comprehensive support for career exploration, application processes, and professional development. Students benefit from workshops, career fairs, mock interviews, and personalized guidance from experienced careers advisors.
Other
Clinical Facilities:
The program takes place within the state-of-the-art Newcastle Dental Hospital, one of the most modern and well-equipped facilities in the UK.
Intercalated Study:
Students have the opportunity to pursue an intercalated degree, allowing them to delve into a research project, broaden their research skills, and explore topics of particular interest.
International Opportunities:
The program encourages students to participate in elective placements, offering the chance to experience dentistry in another country and broaden their cultural and professional perspectives.
University Reputation:
The program's strong emphasis on clinical practice, research opportunities, and career support prepares graduates for successful and fulfilling careers in the dental field.
Home: £9,250 International: £44,390
