University of Central Lancashire(UCLAN)

What you'll study

The BDS is an integrated five-year programme that combines foundation biomedical sciences with progressively increasing clinical experience. Early years focus on anatomy, physiology, microbiology, dental materials and the principles of oral health. As you progress you will study restorative dentistry, endodontics, periodontology, prosthodontics, oral surgery, paediatric dentistry and orthodontic principles, together with pain control and radiography.

Clinical training is delivered through simulation suites and supervised patient care in university dental clinics and partner NHS primary and secondary care settings. Modules and typical topics include:

• Basic and applied biomedical sciences – head and neck anatomy, systemic physiology and pathology relevant to dentistry.
• Clinical skills and simulation – pre-clinical operative techniques, dental materials and hand skills development in dedicated simulation labs.
• Restorative and operative dentistry – cavity preparation, restoration, crown and bridge concepts, and management of pulpal disease.
• Oral surgery and pain control – extractions, surgical principles, local and regional anaesthesia, and management of dental emergencies.
• Periodontology and preventive dentistry – diagnosis and non-surgical management of gum disease, oral health promotion and behaviour change approaches.
• Paediatric and special care dentistry – managing children and patients with additional needs.
• Radiography and imaging – dental radiographic techniques, interpretation and radiation safety.
• Clinical practice and professional development – ethics, communication, law, reflective practice, team-working and practice management.
• Research and evidence-based dentistry – research methods, critical appraisal and a project or dissertation in oral health.

Throughout the programme you will undertake assessed clinical competences that build towards independent practice, supported by workplace-based assessments and reflective portfolios.

Entry requirements

Typical entry to a UK BDS requires strong science qualifications. Applicants are normally expected to have:

• A-levels or equivalent with high grades in Chemistry plus Biology (or another science) — specific grade offers are set by the university and may vary by year.
• Evidence of broader academic ability; some applicants present additional qualifications such as a science degree or appropriate level 3 vocational qualifications.
• Performance in the national admissions test used by dental schools (for UK applicants this is typically the UCAT/UKCAT) where required by the university.
• Successful candidates are invited to an interview, commonly conducted as multiple mini-interviews (MMIs) or panel interviews to assess communication, ethical reasoning and motivation for dentistry.
• Satisfactory occupational health clearance, an enhanced DBS check and appropriate immunisations are required before clinical placements.
• International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic qualifications and English language proficiency to the level required by the university (for example IELTS or other accepted tests) and meet visa and registration requirements.

Note: Specific entry criteria, accepted qualifications and minimum test scores are set by UCLan and can change; applicants should consult the university admissions pages for precise requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BDS are eligible to register with the General Dental Council upon successful completion of the programme and undertaking any required foundation training. Common early-career pathways include:

• General Dental Practice (NHS, private, or mixed practices) following completion of foundation training.
• Hospital dentistry and community dental services, often working in oral and maxillofacial units, paediatric dental services or special care dentistry.
• Postgraduate specialist training in fields such as orthodontics, restorative dentistry, oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, paediatric dentistry and prosthodontics.
• Academic and research careers in dental education, clinical research or public oral health.
• Roles in public health, dental commissioning, clinical governance and dental industry positions related to materials and technologies.

Many graduates also pursue further qualifications (MJDF, MClinDent, MSc, PhD) to support specialist training or research careers.

Why study at University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

UCLan offers a clinically focused dental curriculum with access to modern simulation facilities, on-campus teaching clinics and established partnerships with local NHS dental services that provide diverse patient experience. The programme emphasises hands-on clinical training, interprofessional learning with other healthcare students and early patient contact.

Students benefit from experienced clinical academics, dedicated skills tutors and support services including careers advice, wellbeing and study support. UCLan also engages in applied oral health research and community outreach, giving students opportunities to be involved in research projects and public health initiatives that complement their clinical training.

The combination of practical training facilities, strong clinical links and a supportive learning environment aims to prepare graduates for safe, effective practice and onward professional development in dentistry.