The BDS at The University of Manchester is a 5-year undergraduate programme that combines academic excellence, early clinical exposure, and cutting-edge research. Taught in one of the UK’s top dental schools, it equips students with the knowledge, practical skills, and professionalism to practise safely and effectively as a dentist. Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and strong mentorship from experienced clinicians.
Curriculum Structure (Yearly Breakdown)
Year 1: Focus on biomedical sciences, anatomy, and introductory clinical skills. Students begin learning about patient communication and the foundations of oral biology in simulated environments.
Year 2: Builds on Year 1 with more advanced biomedical teaching and the introduction of clinical practice in primary care settings. Students begin supervised patient contact.
Year 3: Involves more intensive clinical experience across multiple specialities, including restorative dentistry, periodontology, and paediatric dentistry, alongside continued academic learning.
Year 4: Students rotate through hospital and community-based placements, managing increasingly complex cases under supervision and learning advanced clinical techniques.
Year 5: Focused on independent practice readiness. Students consolidate their clinical experience, manage full patient cases, and prepare for Dental Foundation Training (DFT) with mock exams and case portfolios.
Accreditation
The program is accredited by the General Dental Council (GDC) in the UK, which ensures the degree leads to registration as a qualified dentist upon graduation.
Program Ranking
The University of Manchester is consistently ranked among the top 10 UK dental schools (Complete University Guide & QS Rankings), with a global reputation for health sciences and clinical training.
Campus Location
The course is taught at the University of Manchester's Oxford Road campus and the Manchester Dental Hospital, both centrally located and integrated within the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.
Research and Projects:
Students have the opportunity to engage in research-led learning and may participate in the intercalated BSc or master's programmes between years or after graduation. The university leads research in dental public health, biomaterials, and tissue engineering.
Internships and Clinical Placements:
For students, extensive clinical placements begin from Year 2. Students gain hands-on experience in both community dental clinics and Manchester Dental Hospital with real patients.
Student Societies and Clubs:
The university boasts a diverse range of student-led societies, including those focused on dentistry. These organisations offer networking opportunities, peer support, and involvement in community outreach programs, enriching the student experience.
Student Organisations
Students can join the University of Manchester Dental Students’ Society (UMDSS), which organises social, academic, and professional development events. There are also clubs for oral health outreach, sports, and mentoring.
Final Year Project
In the final year, students are assessed through comprehensive case-based portfolios and final clinical assessments. These function as practical experiences that simulate real-world practice.
Career Services
The university offers specialised career guidance for healthcare students, including DFT application support, mock interviews, CV workshops, and access to alumni networks in NHS and private sectors. These salaried positions involve clinical work and professional study, providing a solid foundation for a career in dentistry.
Career Services:
The University of Manchester offers comprehensive career support, including personalized guidance, workshops, and resources to assist students in achieving their professional goals. The university's strong links with employers enhance job prospects for graduates.
Employability & Median Salary
Graduates have a near-100% employment rate within six months. Most enter Dental Foundation Training, a prerequisite for practising in the UK. Median starting salaries post-DFT range from £32,000–£38,000, increasing substantially with experience or private practice.
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