Central Queensland University

What you'll study

The Bachelor of Oral Health blends foundational biomedical and behavioural sciences with clinical skills and public health practice. Early subjects develop knowledge of anatomy, physiology, microbiology and oral pathology to underpin safe clinical care. Core clinical topics include periodontal therapy, dental hygiene techniques, preventive oral health, restorative principles relevant to dental therapy, dental radiography and pain management.

Students also study modules in child and adolescent oral health, oral health promotion and community dentistry, professional practice and ethics, clinical decision making and evidence‑based practice. The course emphasises practical skill development through simulation laboratories and progressive supervised patient treatment in university clinics, together with structured external placements in private practices, community health services and school dental programs.

• Foundations of biomedical science for oral health
• Dental materials and restorative principles for therapists
• Periodontology and nonsurgical periodontal therapy
• Oral radiography and interpretation
• Paediatric and adolescent oral health care
• Oral health promotion, epidemiology and community oral health
• Clinical skills, patient management and professional practice
• Research methods and evidence‑based clinical decision making

Entry requirements

Entry is typically on the basis of secondary school qualifications or recognised equivalent. Domestic applicants commonly present an Australian Year 12 certificate or recognised interstate/overseas equivalent; selection may consider overall academic achievement and relevant prior study. Mature‑age applicants with appropriate work or life experience may also be considered through alternative entry pathways.

All applicants must meet English language requirements; international applicants will need an approved English language test score or equivalent evidence of English proficiency. Successful applicants are required to satisfy health, immunisation and safety prerequisites for clinical placements, which commonly include a medical declaration, vaccination checks, a police check and current cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification. Specific documentation requirements are provided during the enrolment process.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to register or seek employment as dental hygienists and dental therapists in a variety of settings. Common career destinations include private dental practices, community and public health clinics, school dental services, indigenous and rural health programmes, and non‑government organisations providing oral health services.

Career roles and activities can include preventive oral care, periodontal therapy, dental restorations within the scope of dental therapy, oral health education and promotion, patient triage and screening, radiography and involvement in multidisciplinary primary care teams. Graduates may also pursue postgraduate study in public health, research or allied dental fields, or undertake further training to expand clinical scope or transition into dental, oral health leadership or education roles.

Why study at Central Queensland University

Central Queensland University offers a practical, clinically focused program with a strong emphasis on community and regional oral health. Students gain hands‑on experience in modern simulation facilities and university dental clinics, supported by teaching staff who are practising oral health clinicians and academics.

The university fosters placement opportunities across urban, rural and regional settings, reflecting a commitment to improving access to oral health services in diverse communities. Student support services, including academic assistance, clinical skills coaching and career guidance, help graduates transition into the workforce or further study in oral health and allied disciplines.

Overall, the program is designed to equip graduates with the clinical competencies, professional behaviours and community‑focused perspective needed for a career in oral health practice and promotion.