University of Otago

What you'll study

The Master of Community Dentistry combines advanced taught papers with a significant research component to provide a rounded understanding of public oral health. Core topics include dental epidemiology, oral health promotion and education, health services planning and evaluation, research methods and biostatistics, and the determinants of oral health across the life course.

Typical modules cover:

• Principles of community oral health and health promotion
• Oral health epidemiology and surveillance methods
• Health services planning, management and evaluation for community dental services
• Applied research methods, including quantitative and qualitative approaches
• Specialist topics such as Māori and Pacific oral health, child oral health, geriatric oral health or water fluoridation policy (depending on supervisor and electives)

The programme normally culminates in an independent research project or dissertation supervised by academic staff in the School of Dentistry. Students gain practical experience in designing and evaluating community-based interventions, analysing population oral health data, and translating research into policy and practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically required to hold a recognised dental qualification or another relevant health degree with appropriate professional experience. Registered dentists and other oral health professionals with demonstrated interest in public health are strongly encouraged to apply. Academic performance at undergraduate level should indicate capacity for postgraduate study, and applicants must provide a curriculum vitae and academic or professional references.

Prospective students who lack a dental qualification but have relevant public health or research experience may be considered on a case-by-case basis. International applicants must meet the University of Otago's English language requirements. Where clinical or community placements are part of the programme, local registration or permissions may be required.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master of Community Dentistry move into a range of roles in public and community oral health. Typical career paths include positions as dental public health officers, managers of community dental services, policy advisors in government health agencies, programme planners for oral health promotion, and roles with non-governmental organisations and international health agencies. The qualification also provides a foundation for further academic research or doctoral study and for teaching positions in dental and public health programmes.

Why study at University of Otago

The University of Otago's Faculty of Dentistry has a long-standing reputation for dental education and research in New Zealand. Students benefit from access to experienced academic supervisors, established links with regional community dental services, and multidisciplinary expertise in public health, epidemiology and Māori and Pacific health. Research facilities, clinical teaching centres and collaborative partnerships across the university and with external health agencies support a practical, research-informed approach to improving population oral health.