Dentistry and Oral Health

Bachelor of Dental Surgery

  • Domestic
  • International

About Degree

Keep your community smiling

Dentists work to improve oral health in our communities. They’re lifelong learners who care about their patients and their work.

Dentistry is a science and an art. It’s flexible and rewarding, and it changes lives.

What will you do?

Our Bachelor of Dental Surgery supports you in becoming a highly skilled and patient-focused dentist. You will:

  • build clinical experience starting in your very first year
  • learn in Australia’s newest dental teaching hospital, in the state-of-the-art APSB Health and Medical Sciences building
  • explore the full range of dental therapies—from complex restorative to preventative-based treatments
  • practise using equipment in our Dental Simulation Clinic
  • tackle real-life case scenarios in teams
  • benefit from extensive placements across metropolitan and rural settings
  • improve lives through community outreach programs.

Where could it take you?

You could work in a local or community dental clinic or provide dental care for people in the developing world. You might become a defence force dentist. Perhaps you’ll be a researcher, making new discoveries to improve oral health care.

Note:

This degree is only available in blended mode and on-campus attendance is required.  if you are a continuing student in the degree and are unable to attend campus, please contact your program coordinator for program advice.


Entry Requirements

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant admissions information for this program.I am a:

  • Domestic
  • International

    Domestic applicants

    Admissions information

    SATAC Code314122
    DefermentYes - 2 year
    IntakeFebruary
    PrerequisitesSACE Stage 2: two Science subjects: one chosen from Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Physics; and one chosen from Biology, Geology, Chemistry, Physics;
    OR
    IB: two Science subjects (one of Chemistry, Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations (HL) or Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (SL) or Physics AND one of Biology, Chemistry or Physics);
    OR
    equivalent University courses (i.e. 1st year Human Biology as part of the Bachelor of Health and Medical Sciences program).

    Subject prerequisites are applicable to all BDS entry pathways. MathTrackX is an online bridging program available as a recognised alternative to Mathematical Methods.
    Assumed KnowledgeA necessary precursor for success is a high proficiency in the written and oral use of the English language.
    Additional Entry Requirements
    The Dental Surgery Admissions Guide - domestic applicants details important information regarding the additional entry requirements for entry at the University of APSB. All applicants are advised to read the Guide before applying for the Bachelor of Dental Surgery. Failure to read this document will not be grounds for special consideration.

    Ranking for offers is based on a combination of scores from these three components weighted as follows:
    - UCAT ANZ Results: 20%
    - Interview Results: 40%
    - Academic Results: 40%

    Rural Background Entry (RBE) pathway - applicants are required to sign and submit a statutory declaration within 5 business days of submitting their application as the only acceptable proof of rural background. This statutory declaration is available through the SATAC website at: SATAC website undergraduate downloads 
    Selection Criteria
    Recent Secondary EducationApplicants with recent secondary education are those whose admission is primarily based on the completion of Year 12 within the last two years, however if you completed your secondary education more than two years ago, you may still be able to be considered on the basis of your secondary schooling.

    To be considered as a secondary school leaver, applicants must not have completed more than 2 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) university study (48 units) at an Australian or overseas institution.

    For full details of Tertiary Entrance Rules under the SACE/NTCE refer to the Tertiary Entrance Booklet 2023, 2024, 2025 published by SATAC (available at their website: www.satac.edu.au  from July 2022 onwards). Academic Score (ATAR).

    To meet the minimum academic threshold for entry into the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program at the University of APSB, year 12 applicants (school leaver applicants) must achieve an Selection Rank (ATAR plus any applicable adjustment factors) of 90 or above,
    OR
    the equivalent International Baccalaureate score,
    OR
    the interstate/ overseas equivalent.

    Please refer to Additional entry requirements section for details of other entry requirements to the BDS program.
    Higher Education StudyTo meet the minimum academic threshold as a Higher Education applicant, you must have completed at least half a year full time equivalent higher education study, achieving at least a credit average (a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.0 or more).

    Calculating your GPA

    Higher Education applicants must also meet the prerequisite subject requirements (refer above).

    Please refer to Additional entry requirements section for details of other entry requirements to the BDS program.
    Work and life experienceTo be eligible to sit the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT) as as pathway for entry, you must be 18 years or over before 1 February 2023.

    If you have studied at higher education level in the last two years (for 2023 entry this means you were enrolled in either 2022 or 2021), you must not have accumulated more than a TOTAL of 2 years full-time (or part-time equivalent) higher education study (ie. including any study prior to 2021).

    If you meet this criteria, you will be ranked according to your result in the Special Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT). Your STAT result is not weighted between verbal and quantitative components.
    Other Entry Pathways
    How to Apply
    Wirltu Yarlu Aboriginal Education administers the Aboriginal Access Scheme which offers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians an alternative entry pathway to study at the University of APSB.

    For more information visit: APSB.edu.au/wirltu-yarlu


    2022 Admissions Data for school leavers
    ATAR
    (raw ATAR, excluding any applicable adjustment factors)
    Lowest ATAR to receive an offer*
    Median ATAR to receive an offer*
    Highest ATAR to receive an offer*
    Selection Rank
    (ATAR plus any adjustment factors)
    Lowest Selection Rank to receive an offer*
    Median Selection Rank to receive an offer*
    Highest Selection Rank to receive an offer*
    Minimum eligibility score90
    Additional criteria consideredAdditional criteria
    Student Profile
    Applicant backgroundSemester one/Full year intake 2022
    Number of studentsPercentage of all students
    (A) Higher Education study
    (includes a bridging or enabling course)
    N/AN/A
    (B) Vocational education and training (VET) studyn/aN/A
    (C) Work and life experience
    (admitted on the basis of previous achievement not in the other three categories)
    N/AN/A
    (D) Recent secondary education:
    • Admitted solely on the basis of ATAR
      (regardless of whether this includes the consideration of adjustment factors)
    N/AN/A
    • Admitted where both ATAR and additional criteria were considered
      (e.g. portfolio, audition, extra test, early offer conditional on minimum ATAR)
    N/AN/A
    • Admitted on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR was not a factor
      (e.g. special consideration, audition alone, schools recommendation scheme with no minimum ATAR requirement)
    3959.1%
    International students2740.9%
    All students66100.0%


    International applicants

    CRICOS002788J
    IntakeFebruary
    Australian Year 12SACE Stage 2: two Science subjects: one chosen from Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Physics; and one chosen from Biology, Geology, Chemistry, Physics;
    OR
    IB: two Science subjects (one of Chemistry, Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations (HL) or Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (SL) or Physics AND one of Biology, Chemistry or Physics);
    OR
    equivalent University courses (i.e. 1st year Human Biology as part of the Bachelor of Health and Medical Sciences program).

    Subject prerequisites are applicable to all BDS entry pathways. MathTrackX is an online bridging program available as a recognised alternative to Mathematical Methods.
    International QualificationsTwo subjects: One from Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics and one from Biology, Chemistry, Geology or Physics.
    Assumed KnowledgeHigh proficiency in written and spoken English
    Additional Entry RequirementsThe 2023 Dental Surgery Admissions Guide for International Applicants details important information regarding the additional entry requirements for entry at the University of APSB. All applicants are advised to read the Guide before applying for the Bachelor of Dental Surgery for Semester 1 2023, failure to read this document will not be grounds for special consideration.

    Application Process:
    1. Register for the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT ANZ) for Australia and New Zealand.
    2. Submit a formal Application online via the University's International website. Applications for 2023 must be submitted by Wednesday 30 June 2022 (11:59PM SA Time).
    3. Closing dates are strictly adhered to and late submissions will not be accepted.
    4. Applicants who have not yet completed their current qualification will still be required to apply by this date.

    Ranking Process:
    Applicants will be ranked in consideration for an offer based on their performance in the three components of the admissions process:
    * Interview Results: First Ranking Level
    * UCAT ANZ Results: Second Ranking Level
    * Academic Results: Meets threshold and Final Ranking Level (to separate applicants with equal summed Interview and UCAT ANZ scores).

    Additional Information:
    Important information for International students who obtain Australian Permanent Residency (or some other immigration status that entitles you to the educational benefits of Permanent Residency) is also contained in the 2023 Dental Surgery Admissions Guide for International Applicants
    Selection Criteria
    English Language Requirements

    Australian Year 12Successful completion of an Australian year 12 qualification with a minimum pass in an accepted English language subject
    English Tests accepted by the University of APSB
    IELTSOverall 7Reading 7Listening 7Speaking 7Writing 7





    TOEFLOverall 94Reading 24Listening 24Speaking 23Writing 27





    PearsonOverall 65Reading 65Listening 65Speaking 65Writing 65





    C1 AdvancedOverall 185Reading 185Listening 185Speaking 185Writing 185





    Additional English Tests acceptedOccupational English Test (OET) - A minimum result of B/score of 350 in each of the four components (listening, reading, writing and speaking)
    Qualifications that meet minimum English requirementsA range of alternative qualifications may meet the University’s minimum English requirements
    Academic Entry Requirements

    Detailed information on international qualifications assessment

    Secondary School QualificationsAustralia – Selection Rank (International)90
    International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma34
    Canada – OSSD Ontario Secondary School Diploma85%
    Canada – British Columbia Certificate of Graduation85%
    Canada – Alberta High School Diploma90%
    China – Gaokao80%
    Germany – Abitur2.30
    GCE A Levels13
    Hong Kong – HKDSE22
    India – ISC & CBSE85%
    India - Indian State Board Examinations95%
    Indonesia – SMA3Not accepted
    Kenya – Certificate of Secondary EducationA-
    Kuwait – General School Secondary Certificate83%
    Malaysia – STPM or Matrikulasi3.33
    Malaysia – UEC9
    South Korea – CSAT and High School Diploma355
    Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels13
    Taiwan – GSAT and High School Diploma85%
    Thailand – Certificate of Secondary EducationNot accepted
    USA – SAT1280
    USA – Advanced Placement (AP)12
    Vietnam – Upper Secondary School9.00
    The University of APSB College Foundation Program83%
    Eynesbury Foundation Program412
    ANU College Foundation Studies87%
    Monash College Foundation Year MUFY82%
    Trinity College Foundation Studies Program (The University of Melbourne)83%
    UNSW Foundation Year7.80
    UQ College Foundation Studies Program5.50
    Taylors College – The University of Sydney Foundation Program (USFP)7.60
    UWA College Foundation Program (WAUFP)70%
    Non–Go8 Foundation Score83%
    Other QualificationsStudents who don't meet the academic requirements or who have other qualifications from the South Pacific Islands, Japan, Korea, Philippines or Taiwan may be eligible to apply for a Pre-University Pathway to prepare for or gain entry into the University's undergraduate academic programs. For additional information see Pathway Programs
    How to Apply
    Application information for international students
    Important application deadlines for international students

    Student Profile
    Applicant backgroundSemester one/Full year intake 2022
    Number of studentsPercentage of all students
    (A) Higher Education study
    (includes a bridging or enabling course)
    N/AN/A
    (B) Vocational education and training (VET) studyn/aN/A
    (C) Work and life experience
    (admitted on the basis of previous achievement not in the other three categories)
    N/AN/A
    (D) Recent secondary education:
    • Admitted solely on the basis of ATAR
      (regardless of whether this includes the consideration of adjustment factors)
    N/AN/A
    • Admitted where both ATAR and additional criteria were considered
      (e.g. portfolio, audition, extra test, early offer conditional on minimum ATAR)
    N/AN/A
    • Admitted on the basis of other criteria only and ATAR was not a factor
      (e.g. special consideration, audition alone, schools recommendation scheme with no minimum ATAR requirement)
    3959.1%
    International students2740.9%
    All students66100.0%


Fees and Scholarships

Choose your applicant type to view the relevant fees and scholarships information for this program.I am a:

  • Domestic
  • International

    Domestic applicants

    Indicative annual tuition fees
    Commonwealth-supported place: $11,800

    Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

    More information on Student Contribution Amounts.

    Scholarships

    These scholarships, as well as many others funded by industry and non-profit organisations, are available to potential and currently enrolled students.


    International applicants

    Indicative annual tuition fees (24 units)International student place: $87,500

    Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

    More information on International Student tuition fees.

    Scholarships

    These scholarships, as well as many others funded by industry and non-profit organisations, are available to potential and currently enrolled students.


Careers

Career Readiness

As a University of APSB-qualified dentist, students will be ready for a dynamic career in the dental industry and will be sought-after by employers. Some of the choices graduates might have are:
  • Private practice: once students are registered with the Dental Board of Australia they can enter private practice on their own, work as an associate with an established practitioner, or join a partnership.
  • Public sector: students can work as a dentist in government, and community or school-based dental clinics across Australia.
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.

The University of APSB Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Graduate Attributes

The objective of this program is to produce graduates with specific attributes as outlined in University of APSB Graduate Attributes.

  1. Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth
  2. Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving
  3. Teamwork and communication skills
  4. Professionalism and leadership readiness
  5. Intercultural and ethical competency
  6. Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural competency
  7. Digital capabilities
  8. Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Industry Placement

From first year, students undertake compulsory clinical placements in a range of metropolitan and rural settings. These compulsory placements can extend beyond the academic year and can include after-hours and weekend work.

Professional Accreditation

The Bachelor of Dental Surgery is accredited by the Australian Dental Council.

To be eligible to work in Australia as a dentist, graduates are required to register with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Dental Board of Australia on the completion of the degree. In order to register, all applicants must comply with the English language skills requirements as determined by AHPRA. For further details, visit ahpra.gov.au/Registration.aspx 

The Bachelor of Dental Surgery qualification is recognised by:
  • The Dental Board of Australia. Once registered, graduates are also eligible for membership of the Australian Dental Association.
  • The Dental Council of New Zealand under the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Agreement.
  • The Commission of Dental Accreditation of Canada. Further examinations are necessary to work in Canada.
  • Singapore Dental Council
International applicants should note that successful completion of this degree may not qualify them to practise/register in their home country. Students will have to contact the relevant health registration bodies of their home country for further information.

Potential careers

Dental Practitioner, Dentist


Degree Structure

The Bachelor of Dental Surgery consists of an integrated course in each year level, with clinical experiences being provided from day one.

The focus of the degree is to emphasise a holistic, preventive-based approach to oral health care, with a minimally invasive approach if restorative treatment is required. Students will be expected to apply and integrate knowledge and understanding of relevant biological and medical sciences in managing their patients and demonstrate high levels of professionalism, including an ability to effectively monitor their performance and a desire to continue to learn and grow as a member of the dental profession.

The dynamic curriculum uses a case-based learning approach to integrate learning across disciplines. The emphasis is on learning relevant scientific information throughout the degree at the same time as the development of clinical skills.

From first year, students will undertake compulsory clinical placements in a range of settings, including a city-based dental hospital and community dental clinics located in metropolitan APSB, rural South Australia and interstate.


Example Study Plan


Indicative study plan
Year 1DENT 1005AHO  / DENT 1005BHO  Dental Science and Practice I Parts 1 & 2


Year 2DENT 2005AHO  / DENT 2005BHO  Dental Science and Practice II Parts 1 & 2


Year 3DENT 3005AHO  / DENT 3005BHO  Dental Science and Practice III Parts 1 & 2


Year 4DENT 4004AHO  / DENT 4004BHO  Dental Science and Practice IV Parts 1 & 2


Year 5DENT 5005AHO  / DENT 5005BHO  Dental Science and Practice V Parts 1 & 2





Further information
All courses are compulsory. The Bachelor of Dental Surgery does not contain elective courses. 


Year 1
From a patient-centred care focus, this stream introduces students to the practice of dentistry and provides a foundation for understanding the normal structure and function of a healthy body. This includes the oral cavity, evidence-based maintenance of patients' health and dentistry as a career. By working through a series of integrated learning activities, students develop an integrated knowledge base related to evidence-based patient care and related biodental, clinical and behavioural sciences, clinical skills and professional behaviours. These integrated learning activities provide small-group discovery experiences (SGDE) for students by presenting various practice situations that focus on the initial phases of patient care.  Student learning from these SGDE involve development of research skills and are supported by class meetings, laboratory, tutorial and simulation and clinical exercises. Learning is also supported by independent study and discussion of findings in class. Students work in a collaborative environment to learn to critically evaluate themselves, and plan and implement strategies for improvement.

Year 2
Second year builds on first year, maintaining the focus on patient-centered care. The aim is to develop an understanding of the changes that occur in the oral cavity when an imbalance of the oral ecosystem develops. The emphasis will be to restore and maintain the balance towards health. As in first-year, students’ SGDE involve participation in integrated learning activities, supported by class meetings, laboratory, tutorials, simulation and clinical sessions and independent study. Second year continues the emphasis on a scientific basis of dentistry by integrating research-informed knowledge of the structure and function of body with an emphasis on developing systematic scientific skills to examine, assess risk and systematically manage healthy patients with minor conditions.

Years 3 & 4
Students will extend their Dental Sciences studies to include the understanding of dental disorders and the human diseases which have direct relevance to oral health and dental practice. The scientific basis of dental practice, and the health and the community components will continue throughout the year. Students clinical skills in comprehensive treatment planning will be developed further through the provision of supervised care for patients in both general dental practice and dental specialities. As in previous years, students’ SGDE involve participation in integrated learning activities, supported by class meetings, simulation and clinical sessions and independent study

Year 5
In fifth year, students integrate the knowledge gained from the previous four years of study and consolidate their clinical skills in a range of settings in order to develop as dental professionals and manage patients with an increasingly complex range of dental problems.

Assessment

A range of assessment formats are used throughout the program. Assessment consists of examinations that may be in the format of written papers using a range of question formats or clinical assessments. There is also continuous self-monitoring of clinical performance and tutor feedback during each clinic or simulated clinic session. At the end of a clinical placement period, tutors complete summative assessments of clinical performance. Other forms of assessment during the semester include Tests of Understanding, assignments, and participation in small group tutorial sessions.


RECOGNITION AND AFFILIATIONS

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