Enter OTP
The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) at King’s College London is a five-year, GDC-accredited program that combines early clinical exposure, advanced simulation training, and research-led teaching to prepare students for a professional career in dentistry. Based in world-renowned hospitals like Guy’s and St Thomas’, the course integrates biomedical sciences with hands-on patient care across all major dental specialties. Ranked among the top dental schools globally, King’s offers access to cutting-edge facilities, an optional intercalated BSc year, and excellent career outcomes, with graduates progressing into Dental Foundation Training and beyond.
Year 1: Foundational biomedical sciences (anatomy, physiology, microbiology), introduction to dental materials, basic simulation training.
Year 2–3: Integrated clinical learning alongside scientific theory; developing restorative and preventive procedures in simulation and real clinical settings.
Year 4: Transition into more patient-facing clinical work under supervision in specialty areas like periodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics.
Year 5 : Advanced clinical practice, independent case management, preparation for graduation and transition into Dental Foundation Training (DFT)
Note: There is option to intercalate a separate BSc year between years 3 and 4 for deeper research or topics in oral sciences.
Accreditation:
The BDS at KCL is approved and regulated by the General Dental Council (GDC) in the UK. Graduates are eligible for GDC registration and entry into Dental Foundation Training, which is the standard next step to qualify as practising dentists.
Rankings & Reputation:
In QS Dentistry 2023, KCL remained the only UK university in the top 10
National ranking: Dentistry often ranks around 9th in the UK by complete university guide
Global recognition of teaching excellence (Dentistry at King’s is ranked 1st in the UK and 4th in the world - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
Campus Location & Facilities:
The Faculty hosts world-class research centres:
Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology
Host–Microbiome Interactions
Oral, Clinical & Translational Sciences
Around 35 research groups, over 80 research-active staff and more than 140 PhD candidates
Representative projects include studies into bacterial folate and homocysteine metabolism related to Parkinson’s, oral health policy frameworks, molecular profiling in periodontitis, and tissue engineering innovations
Internships & Clinical Placements:
Every year entails hands-on clinical placement under supervision at NHS partner hospitals (Guy’s, St Thomas’, King’s College).
Early exposure begins in years 2–3 in simulation clinics, expanding to real‑patient care in later years.
After graduation, almost all students progress to Dental Foundation Training (DFT) placements across the UK.
Student Organisations & Support:
Students can join dental-specific societies and outreach groups, engage in clinical skills workshops, peer networking, community oral health events and volunteering.
Additional support from KCLSU and faculty-based events, academic and personal support services are available campus-wide.
Career Services & Employability:
Career pathways: general practice, hospital dentistry (consultants in specialities), academics/research, or public health dentistry.
KCL Careers provides CV workshops, interview preparation, dental foundation job support, and networking with alumni and hospital staff.
Median Salary: Starting ~£35,000–£45,000 in Foundation Year; can grow to £60,000–£100,000+ in private practice.
King’s offers excellent research exposure; BDS grads can pursue Master's (MClinDent, MSc) in areas like:
Oral Sciences
Dental Public Health
Biomaterials
Tissue Engineering
Public Health & Policy
Graduates can work in Dental Public Health, advising on oral health strategies, policy planning, and community outreach.
Can pursue an MPH (Master of Public Health) with a focus on oral health or epidemiology.
IELTS overall 7.5 bands with no less than 7 in each each modules (Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking)A level students must include grade A in Biology or Chemistry, in addition to grade A in one of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics or Psychology.IBDP students must score 38 points overall or an aggregate score of 19 from three Higher Levels. additionally must include grade 6 in Higher Level Chemistry or Biology, in addition to grade 6 in Higher Level in one of Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics or Psychology.King’s is only able to accept applicants who will be 18 years of age on 1st January on the first year of the Dentistry programmesMulti Mini Interviews (MMIs) are conducted in person, with six interviewers on campusApplicants are required to sit the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT)General Dentist / Dental PractitionerAssociate Dentist (NHS or Private Practice)Dental Officer (Hospital/Community Clinics)Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery AssistantOrthodontic Therapist (with training)Endodontist (after specialization)Periodontist (after specialization)Prosthodontist (after specialization)Paediatric Dentist (after specialization)Oral Surgeon (with DCT and training)Implantologist (with certification)Cosmetic/Aesthetic Dentist
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
Kings College London
