Dentistry rivals medicine as one of the most challenging and demanding degrees in the world to complete. Places are often limited at UK dental schools, and to successfully apply, you will need qualifications in science subjects such as chemistry and biology. You will also need to be good with people and a strong communicator.
The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) is the most common course found across UK dental schools, and training generally takes a minimum of five years to complete, with practical patient care often introduced after year one. As the degree progresses, students usually transition to clinical training, where they gain hands-on experience in treating patients under the supervision of experienced dentists. This involves developing skills in areas such as restorative dentistry, oral surgery, and dental hygiene.
Some dentistry schools also offer elective courses or specialisations, allowing students to focus on specific areas within dentistry, such as orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, or oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Do you want to apply to study dentistry in the UK? Arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today to begin your UCAS application before the upcoming intake.
Top 10 UK Universities for Dentistry
Learn more about the top 10 UK universities for dentistry (2024 Guardian University Guide) below.
1. University of Plymouth
The University of Plymouth Peninsula Dental School has an extremely close relationship with NHS partners, meaning early clinical contact for all students. Ultra Modern facilities enable the University to produce dental practitioners with clinical skills of the highest order, and state-of-the-art Dental Education Facilities provide a substantial service to over 10,000 NHS patients annually.
- Plymouth dentistry course: BDS Dental Surgery
- Entry requirements: GCSE, A Levels and UCAT or GAMSAT
- International fees: £22,100 (year 1) and £41,100 (years 2-5)
2. Queen’s University Belfast
Dentistry at Queen’s University Belfast is ranked 1st in the UK for teaching (96% satisfaction National Student Survey). As early as year 1, students will be expected to take clinical placements as part of their learning.
- Queen's University dentistry course: BDS Dentistry
- Entry requirements: 36 points overall, including 6 6 6 at Higher Level, including Biology and Chemistry + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 or an equivalent acceptable to the University.
- International fees: £35,800
3. University of Dundee
The University of Dundee is a university in Scotland that prepares students for careers as dentists or dental therapists, and students will develop knowledge and skills across the full range of dental disciplines, gaining experience treating patients in the University's dental hospital.
The University of Dundee was recently named 'University of the Year' for Student Experience (Times Good University Guide), and is ranked 4th in the UK for student satisfaction.
- Dundee dentistry course: Dentistry BDS
- Entry requirements: AAAAB at the first sitting of Highers
- International fees: £38,150 for Level 1, then £52,645 per year for the remaining four years (Level 2 - 5)
4. University of Glasgow
At the University of Glasgow, you will learn by treating patients under close supervision by highly experienced and skilled tutors. Ranked top in The Times & Sunday Times Good University Guide and in the Guardian University Guide, the Glasgow Dental Hospital & School has been providing a strong foundation for students' future in medicine and oral health since 1879.
- Glasgow dentistry course: BDS Dentistry
- Entry requirements: AAAAB Higher + B Advanced Higher (AABB S5 minimum for consideration)
- International fees: £48,960
5. University of Bristol
BDS Dentistry at the University of Bristol is a five-year degree emphasising clinical training integrated with relevant sciences and technical skills. Students will develop personally, academically, clinically, and professionally, applying communication and teamwork skills while providing supervised dental care to a diverse patient population in and around Bristol. The curriculum is structured around four main themes: practitioner, scholar and scientist, professional and agent of change, and person and citizen.
- Bristol dentistry course: BDS Dentistry
- Entry requirements: A-level - AAA including Chemistry and one of Biology, Physics, Mathematics or Further Mathematics. Graduates must obtain a 2:1 in their degree and BBB at A-level, including Chemistry and one of Biology, Physics, Mathematics or Further Mathematics.
- International fees: £43,100
6. University of Liverpool
The Institute of Dentistry at the University of Liverpool is a modern purpose-built facility with state-of-the-art equipment and teaching facilities. Limited dentistry places are available per year at the University, meaning entry is highly competitive. This does mean those accepted onto the programme benefit from a great staff-to-student ratio, though.
Clinical work on the BDS Dentistry programme is introduced after one year, and 100% of Liverpool Dentistry School graduates go to work after graduation.
- Liverpool dentistry course: BDS Dentistry
- Entry requirements: 3 A levels at grades AAA (including Chemistry and Biology) taken at first sitting, after two years of study.
- International fees: £40,950
7. Queen Mary, University of London
The Institute of Dentistry at Queen Mary University of London ranks in the top 20 in the world for dentistry according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject. Located in The Royal London Dental Hospital, it offers state-of-the-art technology, excellent education, and research facilities. The five-year BDS Dentistry degree emphasises an innovative curriculum covering various aspects of dental care, including prevention and treatment of dental diseases, oral cancer screening, trauma management, orthodontics, and oral surgery.
- Queen Mary dentistry course: BDS Dentistry
- Entry requirements: A-Level: A*AA (results must be achieved in one sitting over a study period of no longer than two years)
8. University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham's BDS Dental Surgery programme offers a cutting-edge learning environment and clinical training to prepare students for successful careers in dentistry. Ranked 22nd globally in QS World University Rankings 2023 and 10th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2024), the programme emphasises communication, professionalism, and understanding the biological basis of oral health. Students benefit from various clinical experiences, including speciality clinics, partnerships with the NHS, and exposure to the latest dental technology and materials. The programme promotes teamwork with dental nurses, technicians, and Dental Care Professionals (DCPs).
- Birmingham dentistry course: Dental Surgery BDS
- Entry requirements: A-levels - AAA, which must include Chemistry and Biology. IB: 666, at Higher Level (which must include Chemistry and Biology), with a minimum of 32 points overall.
- International fees: £48,660
9. Cardiff University
Cardiff University offers a top-tier dental programme with a cutting-edge simulation suite, early clinical exposure, and a firm choice commitment for students. Ranked in the UK's top 10 for dentistry, the programme equips future dentists with clinical skills, anatomical knowledge, and expertise in oral diseases. The University Dental Hospital provides a real-world learning environment supported by renowned faculty. Thanks to rigorous training and advanced facilities, graduates are prepared to work across various sectors of dentistry, including general care, public health, and hospital care.
- Cardiff dentistry course: Dental Surgery (BDS)
- Entry requirements: AAA. Must include Biology and Chemistry. You will need to pass the science practical element of the A-level if this is part of your programme of study.
- International fees: £43,700
10. Newcastle University
The School of Dental Sciences at Newcastle University offers one of the UK's largest and most well-equipped dental schools, with 125 years of expertise. They aim to be a global leader in academic oral health, focusing on relevance to the population and acting as a focal point for dentistry and oral health in the region. Their professionally accredited degrees allow graduates to practice in the UK and many other countries.
- Newcastle dentistry course: Dental Surgery BDS
- Entry requirements: A-Level entry: AAA with Chemistry and Biology. Pass in practical element required for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics A Levels. International Baccalaureate entry: Minimum 37 points with Chemistry and Biology at Grade 6 or above at Higher level.
- International fees: £40,500
Dentistry Scholarships
Several scholarships available for dentistry degrees in the UK are offered by various universities and organisations. These scholarships aim to support students pursuing a dentistry degree and often consider academic excellence, financial need, or specific eligibility criteria. Some of the scholarships may include:
- Cowrie Scholarship: Newcastle University and The Cowrie Scholarship Foundation offer at least one yearly scholarship to support Black African and Caribbean heritage applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- MSc Dental Public Health Aubrey Sheiham Scholarship: UCL offers two one-year scholarships for full-time students undertaking the MSc in Dental Public Health, with £2,500 for home students and £5,000 for overseas students.
- Professor David Locker Scholarship: The University of Sheffield offers two £7,500 scholarships for postgraduate study in Social Science, Oral Health, and Dentistry, established in honour of the late Professor David Locker.
- Barts and The London Alumni Association Student Bursaries: Dr Richard Callander Hudson's Student Bursary provides £2,000 over three years for MBBS medical students, and Professor Wright's Student Bursary offers the same amount for BDS dental students at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.
Dentistry Degree Fees
The cost of studying for a dentistry degree (BDS) in the UK ranges from £22,209 to £55,000 per year. Please note that these figures are for tuition fees only and do not include other expenses such as accommodation, living costs, or additional fees.
Study Dentistry in the UK
If you wish to learn more about top dentistry universities in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today. Our UK university application experts will ensure your application is ready and submitted without error.
Dentistry Course FAQ
How long is a dentistry course in the UK?
Dentistry courses in the UK usually span five years for undergraduate students. However, for those enrolled in graduate-entry programmes, it's typically a four-year journey.
What are the admission requirements?
Admission requirements vary across universities, but A-level or equivalent qualifications in specific subjects, such as biology and chemistry, are generally necessary. Some institutions may request additional criteria like entrance exams, interviews, or relevant work experience.
What are the three skills you need to be a dentist?
Three essential skills for aspiring dentists include:
- Clinical Proficiency: Demonstrating adeptness in carrying out dental procedures and treatments.
- Effective Communication: Mastering the art of communicating with patients and the dental team.
- Problem-Solving Abilities: The capability to diagnose dental issues accurately and develop appropriate treatment plans.
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