The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) at the University of Otago is a professionally accredited undergraduate degree that trains students to become registered dentists. It suits academically strong applicants who want a rigorous blend of biomedical science, clinical skill development and supervised patient care leading to clinical practice or further specialist training.
The BDS curriculum combines biomedical science with focused dental theory, practical laboratory work and progressive clinical experience. Early years emphasise foundational subjects such as human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and oral biology alongside dental materials, dental anatomy and pre‑clinical simulation practice. As you progress you study core clinical disciplines including restorative dentistry, periodontology, endodontics, prosthodontics, oral surgery, paediatric dentistry, oral pathology and dental radiography.
Clinical learning is a major component: students work in supervised student dental clinics treating patients from the community, undertake outreach and community oral health placements, and develop diagnostic, treatment‑planning and operative skills. Research methods, professional ethics, patient communication and practice management are integrated throughout the programme. The final years consolidate complex case management, interdisciplinary care and preparation for professional registration.
Entry to the BDS is competitive. Applicants are expected to have strong academic results in prior study; typical pathways include successful completion of recognised university entrance requirements or relevant first‑year university study with strong grades. Background in biology and chemistry is advantageous. Selection is commonly based on academic performance plus additional assessment such as interviews, references and evidence of relevant experience or personal suitability for clinical practice. Applicants must also meet health and character requirements necessary for clinical placements and professional registration processes.
Graduates are prepared for entry into general dental practice and must complete any national registration or licensing processes required to practise. Many graduates enter private or community dental practices, public oral health services, or rural and community clinics. After the BDS, graduates may undertake postgraduate specialist training (for example in orthodontics, periodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, prosthodontics or paediatric dentistry), or pursue careers in academic dentistry, research, hospital dental services, public health, forensic odontology, or dental education and management.
Otago houses New Zealand's longstanding dental school with dedicated facilities designed for dental education, including modern simulation laboratories and community dental clinics where students gain substantial hands‑on experience. The programme emphasises integrated teaching across biomedical science and clinical practice, supervised by experienced clinical academics and practising clinicians. Strong links with local communities and public health services provide varied clinical placements, while research activity across oral health disciplines supports opportunities for scholarly projects. The School of Dentistry also offers a supportive student environment and clear pathways for postgraduate specialisation and career development.
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