ObjectivesThe programme is specifically constructed to prepare students for the first year of the standard five-year BDS programme. All topics have a medical or dental orientation, many using clinical material, although students do not have direct contact with patients. Part of the foundation year is taught at Xaverian FE College, but students are always part of The University of Manchester, with access to all its facilities and support systems.
Entry requirementsThis programme is aimed at students who have proven academic ability but who do not have the necessary science qualifications to apply directly to the five-year Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). It is suited to both UK students from non-scientific backgrounds and applicants who have gained their previous qualifications abroad. Automatic entry into the standard five-year BDS programme is granted upon satisfactory completion of the foundation year (first year of a six year programme).
Academic titleBDS Dentistry (pre-dental entry)
Course descriptionModule details
The essential components include:
Modules covering the core syllabus using problem-based learning (PBL) concepts
Formal academic teaching sessions covering some aspects of the relevant basic sciences
Special Study Modules with a clinical orientation
Guest lectures by clinicians
Entry to the five-year BDS programme is automatic on satisfactory completion of the year.
Accrediting organisations
The Degree of Bachelor of Dental Surgery is accredited as a qualification registerable with the General Dental Council.
-General Dental Council website
Career opportunities
As a BDS graduate you can work in general practice (normally after completing a year of mandatory vocational dental practice), the community dental service, hospital practice, university teaching and research, various individual organisations and the armed forces. Sometimes you may need further training and specialisation. Your qualification is recognised throughout the European Union and in many other countries.