Qassim University

What you'll study

The BDS programme delivers a progressive combination of basic biomedical sciences, core dental sciences and extensive clinical training. Early years concentrate on foundation subjects such as human anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and general pathology alongside dental anatomy and tooth morphology. Core dental modules typically include oral pathology, dental materials, dental pharmacology, radiology and infection control.

• Restorative dentistry – operative techniques, caries management, direct and indirect restorations.
• Endodontics – diagnosis and management of pulpal and periapical disease.
• Periodontology – periodontal diagnosis, non-surgical and surgical treatment planning.
• Prosthodontics – removable and fixed prostheses, occlusion and rehabilitation.
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery – extractions, minor oral surgery and perioperative care.
• Orthodontics and paediatric dentistry – growth and development, basic interceptive and corrective treatment for children and adolescents.
• Community and preventive dentistry – oral health promotion, epidemiology and public-health approaches.
• Clinical practice – supervised patient care in the dental teaching hospital, case management and treatment planning.
• Research and professional development – evidence-based dentistry, ethics, communication skills and a supervised research or quality-improvement project.

The programme typically emphasises gradual transition from simulation and pre-clinical labs to direct patient care, with assessment through written exams, practical clinical assessments, case presentations and logbooks of treated patients.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to have completed a recognised secondary-school qualification with a strong emphasis on science subjects, especially biology and chemistry. Typical requirements include a competitive academic record in science stream subjects and fulfilment of any national university admissions criteria.

• Secondary-school diploma or equivalent with high achievement in biology and chemistry.
• Meeting university-specific entrance standards, which may include general aptitude or achievement testing as required by national admissions processes.
• Medical fitness for clinical training and a clear background check as required for patient contact.
• Proficiency in the language of instruction; additional language support may be available for eligible students.

Selection may be competitive and can include interview or additional assessment components. International applicants should confirm additional documentation or equivalency requirements with the university.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BDS are qualified to practise as general dentists after completing any required internship or licensing steps set by national regulatory authorities. Career paths commonly followed by alumni include:

• General dental practice in private clinics or community health centres.
• Hospital-based dentistry and work in specialist departments (following postgraduate training).
• Postgraduate specialisation in areas such as orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, paediatric dentistry and oral medicine.
• Public-health dentistry and roles in oral health promotion, prevention programmes and policy development.
• Academic and research careers in dental schools and institutions, contributing to teaching and clinical research.
• Opportunities in dental industry, forensic odontology, and regulatory or quality-assurance positions.

The degree provides the clinical foundation and professional competencies sought by employers across healthcare, education and the private sector.

Why study at Qassim University

Qassim University’s College of Dentistry provides integrated teaching linked closely to clinical practice in its dental teaching hospital and community outreach programmes. Students benefit from modern clinical facilities and simulation laboratories that support supervised hands-on experience with patients across a broad case mix.

• Experienced faculty with clinical and academic expertise in core dental disciplines.
• Structured clinical exposure that progressively builds independent patient management skills under supervision.
• An emphasis on community dentistry and preventive care, reflecting regional oral-health priorities.
• Opportunities for research projects and participation in clinical audits that strengthen evidence-based practice.

Overall, the BDS at Qassim University is designed to produce competent, patient-focused dentists ready to pursue clinical practice or further specialist training.