University of Adelaide

What you'll study

This programme combines biomedical science, clinical skills and public health to prepare graduates for oral health practice. Core study areas include human anatomy and physiology, dental materials, oral biology and pathology, preventive dentistry, periodontal care, restorative concepts for dental therapists, clinical radiography and pain and infection control.

Progressive, supervised clinical experience is a major feature. In early years you develop communication, infection control and basic chairside skills; later years emphasise comprehensive assessment, treatment planning, provision of hygiene and non‑complex restorative care, paediatric oral health and community oral health promotion. Coursework also covers professional ethics, evidence‑based practice and research methods.

Typical modules and topics you can expect:

• Human anatomy and oral biology
• Oral pathology and disease prevention
• Dental materials and clinical techniques
• Periodontology and periodontal therapy
• Clinical radiography and imaging
• Paediatric oral health and special needs dentistry
• Community oral health and health promotion
• Professional practice, ethics and communication
• Evidence‑based practice and research methods
• Supervised clinical placements in university clinics and community settings

Entry requirements

Applicants need to have completed a recognised senior secondary qualification or an equivalent tertiary qualification. The programme typically considers academic achievement in relevant subjects; background in biology, chemistry or a related science is advantageous. Mature‑age applicants with relevant work experience or prior tertiary study are also considered.

International applicants must meet English language requirements as set by the University. All students offered a place are required to satisfy clinical clearance conditions before commencing placements; these commonly include immunisation requirements, a current first aid certificate, and a police check or working with children check where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates work as oral health practitioners in roles such as dental hygienist and dental therapist, providing preventive care, periodontal therapy, restorations within scope of practice and oral health education. Employment settings include private dental practices, public oral health services, community health centres, school dental programs and aged care facilities.

Other career pathways include roles in oral health promotion, program coordination, clinical supervision, research and further study. Graduates may pursue postgraduate qualifications in oral health science, public health, allied health education or pathway to dentistry depending on local admission pathways and prerequisites.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers a clinical curriculum delivered within an established health and medical teaching environment, with access to purpose‑built dental simulation labs and university dental clinics. Students gain hands‑on experience through supervised placements across metropolitan and regional community settings, exposing them to diverse patient groups and public health contexts.

Teaching is informed by research-active staff and close links with local public oral health services, which supports contemporary, evidence‑based practice. The university's emphasis on interprofessional learning also provides opportunities to collaborate with students from other health disciplines, preparing graduates for team‑based care.