Auckland University of Technology

What you'll study

This programme combines biomedical sciences, communication and professional practice with progressive, supervised clinical experience. Early study covers anatomy, physiology, microbiology, oral health promotion and the foundations of dental materials and radiography. As you progress you study caries management, periodontal therapy, restorative techniques for primary and permanent dentitions, pain and infection control, paediatric oral health, and management of special needs patients.

Clinical learning is an integral component: you will undertake simulated skills labs and supervised patient care in AUT’s teaching clinics and on placement in community and primary care settings. Coursework also includes public and community oral health, cultural competency (including working with Māori and Pacific communities), ethics and professionalism, research methods and evidence‑based practice. Final year study emphasises complex case management, multidisciplinary care and preparation for professional registration and practice management.

Entry requirements

Applicants require University Entrance (or recognised equivalent) and normally need prior study in relevant subjects such as biology or chemistry and strong English communication skills. AUT considers academic results together with other indicators of suitability for clinical practice, which may include a personal statement, interview, references and demonstration of manual dexterity.

Successful applicants must meet professional requirements for clinical placement, which commonly include immunisation status, police vetting (or background check), health screening and the ability to participate in hands‑on patient care. International applicants must meet AUT’s English language requirements and provide documentation of prior study equivalence.

Career prospects

Graduates are eligible to pursue registration as oral health practitioners in New Zealand and typically work as oral health therapists or dental hygienists in a variety of settings. Common employment destinations include private and community dental clinics, school oral health services, public health programmes, primary health organisations and residential care facilities.

With experience, graduates can move into clinical leadership, practice management, education and training roles, or community oral health planning. The degree also provides a foundation for further study in fields such as oral health research, public health, or postgraduate dental and allied health programmes.

Why study at Auckland University of Technology

AUT provides a practice‑oriented curriculum delivered by staff with clinical and research expertise in oral health. You will learn in modern teaching clinics and simulation laboratories, supported by partnerships with community dental providers that give broad placement experience across diverse patient groups.

The programme emphasises culturally responsive care, interprofessional learning with other health disciplines and applied research skills, preparing graduates for contemporary oral health practice. AUT’s connections within the New Zealand health sector help students transition from training to professional practice and ongoing career development.