The 5-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery Program at the University of Adelaide is the only professional dental program in South Australia. The practice of dentistry may be defined as the science and art of preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases, injuries and malformations of teeth, jaws and mouth. Dentistry is a respected and responsible professional career that demands high standards of care and skill, as well as an aptitude for dealing with people. Students are involved in clinical procedures from the outset of the program, with an emphasis on the recognition and prevention of oral diseases. The program is stimulating and enjoyable. It develops attitudes and skills necessary for continual learning after graduation i.e. life-long learning.

The dynamic curriculum is delivered within a case-based learning approach, and formal lectures have been kept to a minimum. There is an emphasis on contextual learning of relevant scientific information throughout the program. This occurs concurrently with the development of clinical skills, which begins from day one.

Good oral health is an integral part of good general health. The aim of this program is to enable graduates to register as dentists to practice in Australia. Graduates are encouraged to strive through their advocacy and clinical practice to empower patients and communities to maintain optimal oral health throughout their lives.

This program is currently rolling out a revised curriculum from 2010 to 2015. Any course information provided in the Study Plan area is subject to change.

The program consists of one integrated stream, with coordination of topics within and between years. First year topics include health and disease, preventative dentistry, behavioural consequences of oral diseases, clinical examination and diagnostic procedures. The dynamic curriculum is delivered within a case-based learning approach. The emphasis of contextual learning of relevant scientific information throughout the program occurs concurrently with the development of clinical skills. Places are open to school leavers, applicants with tertiary education experience, special entry and Aboriginal entry applicants.

Written integrated exams in Dental Science and Practice at the end of each semester, as well as a Progressive Integrated Assessment at the end of each year, Continuous assessment of clinical, laboratory and ILA performance (including self and tutor assessment). Specified tests of understanding and other assignments are also assessable

Career prospects in Dentistry are excellent and graduates are able to register to practice as a dentist anywhere in Australia. There is a significant shortage of qualified dentists in most areas of Australia, particularly in rural and regional centres. Most graduates find work prior to, or shortly after, graduation. Dentists can work in both private practice and in the public dental health system. Dentists employed in the public sector work in schools, universities, community health centres, mobile dental vans, hospitals and other institutions.

In order to be able to register as a dentist with the Dental Board of Australia, all applicants must be able to demonstrate English language skills at IELTS academic level 7 or the equivalent. Refer to http://www.dentalboard.gov.au/Registration-Standards.aspx

What can you earn? New graduates can earn between $75,000-$100,000

Bachelor of Dental Surgery Graduate Attributes

Faculty of Health Sciences

• Program Information Leaflet
• School of Dentistry
• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Undergraduate Scholarships
• University Contact Centre enquiry form