Dental Nursing FdSc

2 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

The University of Northampton

Program Overview

If you’re passionate about helping people and want a hands-on career in oral healthcare, the FdSc Dental Nursing at the University of Northampton is the perfect starting point. This two-year programme blends practical dental nursing experience with essential academic knowledge, preparing you to work confidently in clinics, dental practices, and community settings.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Foundations of Dental Nursing

In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in dental knowledge and patient care. You’ll explore modules like Introduction to Biomedical Science and Oral Biology (DEN1003), Foundations of Dental Nursing (DEN1002), and Chairside Support (DEN1004), learning about oral anatomy, the role of a dental nurse, and essential chairside skills. Alongside classroom learning, you’ll get your first taste of real-world dental practice through placements, helping you develop professional confidence early on.

Year 2 – Developing Advanced Skills & Specialist Knowledge

In your second year, you’ll take your skills to the next level with modules like Dental Nursing Practice 2 (DEN2001P), Applied Biomedical Science and Oral Biology (DEN2003), and Advanced Chairside Support (DEN2004). You’ll gain experience in specialist dental areas, manage patient care plans, and refine your clinical abilities. By the end of this year, you’ll be fully prepared for GDC registration and ready to step into your professional career as a confident dental nurse.

Focus Areas

Dental nursing practice, oral biology, chairside support, clinical placements, specialist care

Learning Outcomes

Graduate ready to work safely and professionally as a registered dental nurse, provide patient-centered care, work effectively in dental teams, and apply evidence-based practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Fully aligned with General Dental Council (GDC) registration requirements.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Ranked 1st in England for student positivity in dental studies (NSS 2025), and part of the University of Northampton’s Top 11 in general nursing (Guardian University Guide 2026).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From the very start, you’ll get hands-on experience in real dental settings, learning not just theory but the practical skills that dental teams use every day. You’ll spend time in specialist simulation labs, use modern digital tools, and complete placements in dental practices and hospitals, so you graduate confident and ready to make a real impact in your career.

Practical learning at Northampton includes:

Dental Nursing Labs & Simulation Suites – practice with dental manikins, suction tools, imaging equipment, and observe techniques in the dedicated observation suite.
Digital Tools & Laptops – use university-provided laptops and online platforms for interactive workshops, group sessions, and building your digital portfolio.
Clinical Placements – gain experience in general dental practices, hospitals, and community outreach settings, including oral health promotion in schools.
Advanced Chairside Equipment & Hygiene Tools – get familiar with the technology and hygiene standards used in modern dental care.
Learning Hub & Study Spaces – 24/7 library access, collaborative areas, and dedicated dental-nursing zones to support both practical and academic learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from this programme means you’ll be ready to step confidently into the dental workforce, equipped with the skills and professional recognition that employers value. Many of our graduates go on to roles such as Dental Nurse, Oral Health Educator, Specialist Care Dental Nurse, or Dental Radiography Assistant, giving you plenty of options to build your career. Here’s how the University supports your journey:

Student Futures (Career & Employability Service) offers guidance with CVs, interviews, and networking events, helping you land your first role.
Around 90% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months, with average earnings of about £27,000.
Work placements in dental practices, hospitals, and community settings — all approved by the General Dental Council (GDC) — give you real-world experience that employers trust.
GDC approval means you can register as a dental care professional in the UK, adding long-term value to your qualification.
The course is highly regarded, with the University ranked 1st in England for student positivity in its subject area, giving your degree extra credibility.

Further Academic Progression:
Once you complete your FdSc, you can continue to a BSc (Hons) in Dental Hygiene & Therapy or take specialist top-up courses in areas such as sedation, dental radiography, or mentoring — opening even more career doors.