TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BDS

Dental Surgery

Gain first-rate dental training and community care skills from year one, with early patient experience, communication practice and hands-on learning, to build expertise and transform lives as a dentist.

A top UK university for dentistry

Our student experience, feedback and career outcomes make 麻豆传媒映画 a top UK choice* in the of the best universities for dentistry in 2026.
*Ranked 6th in the UK

Early clinical experience

From the first year, you'll learn in a practical learning environments with patients, building your confidence and experience with patients to enhance your communication skills and clinical competence.

Community engagement

At 麻豆传媒映画, you can engage directly with the public as part of our Dental Outreach Team, allowing you to make a meaningful impact on local communities while honing your skills.
BDS Dental Surgery

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About

 
 
Combining first-rate dental training with outstanding community dental care, this course will prepare you for a hugely rewarding career as a competent and caring dentist. From year one you'll work with patients and the community, gaining early clinical experience and enhancing your communication skills. In our hands-on, practical and patient-centred environment you'll develop the highest level of core dental skills and knowledge and leave ready to make a difference to people's lives.
Dental student
 
 
 

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about providing patient-centred dental care and aspire to become a competent and caring dentist ready to make a difference
Toothbrush
you seek early clinical exposure to develop practical skills
Dental equipment
you value learning in state-of-the-art facilities alongside experienced professionals
Dentist chair
you're eager to engage with diverse communities to enhance oral health
Tooth

Details

Year 1

Your outstanding clinical education commences at the start of year 1. Working in small, integrated study groups you learn the core scientific foundations of dentistry in a clinical context, explore the scientific basis of healthy structure, function and behaviour, with a focus on dental health, prevention of dental disease and the underlying principles of personal and professional development. You will also learn how to do critically appraise a clinical situation through forum theatre and role play. You attend the Simulated Dental Learning Environment (SDLE) from your first week developing essential clinical skills and in term 2 you experience contact with patients in the clinics where you can develop your communication skills under the close supervision of dental practitioners, bringing to life the skills gained in the SDLE. Your first experience in social engagement takes place near the end of the year. 
Dental dentistry students practising聽

Core modules

BDS411
Integrated Dental Science 1 (BDS) 40 credits

This module introduces the foundational basic and clinical sciences that underpin dental practice, including principles of human disease prevention, the safe use of ionising radiation, and the properties and appropriate use of dental biomaterials. The Integrated Dental Sciences (IDS) assessment is designed to evaluate students鈥 achievement within the cognitive domain, with a primary focus on knowledge acquisition and understanding, and limited, early-stage application. The assessment targets the lower levels of Bloom鈥檚 taxonomy, predominantly remembering and understanding, with selected items assessing basic application of scientific principles in straightforward, well-defined contexts. Questions require students to demonstrate accurate recall of core concepts, comprehension of mechanisms and principles, and the ability to recognise correct associations between foundational science and simple clinical relevance. In alignment with Miller鈥檚 pyramid, the IDS assessment is situated at the knows level, with minimal progression towards knows how, reflecting the developmental stage of Year 1 BDS students. The assessment emphasises breadth and integration of foundational knowledge across disciplines, ensuring students have a secure scientific base upon which more complex clinical reasoning and decision-making will be built in subsequent years.

BDS412
Clinical Dental Practice 1 (BDS) 40 credits

This module provides BDS students with an introduction to clinical dentistry and the management of medical emergencies. It provides a gateway check point to ensure BDS students are ready to commence providing safe dental care for patients.

BDS414
Inter-Professional Engagement 1 (BDS) 20 credits

The module introduces students to community health & social care. Students will undertake a community engagement visit and work closely with a target organisation to understand the impacts of demographic variation and lifestyle issues on local people. The project will enable students to develop an understanding of the wider determinants of health, introduce core academic skills and develop societal and community awareness.

HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1

BDS415
Professional Development and Lifelong Learning 1 (BDS) 20 credits

This module introduces students to reflective adult learning and assists with the development of professional behaviour and attitudes appropriate to dentistry. Every term the student will meet their Academic Tutor and reflect and review on their performance in all aspects of professionalism within the BDS programmes by presentation of written critical reflections and discussion.

Year 2

In your second year, you build on your foundations with common dental problems, as well as disease mechanisms considered in much greater depth. Learning continues in the SDLE as you develop skills for advanced procedures while continuing to care for patients in the clinics in 麻豆传媒映画 two days per week. You gain insight into the importance of team working in dentistry as you integrate with other members of the team in the clinical environment, and plan and deliver a social engagement project intervention. You will also learn how to do respond to critical appraisal from you peers, colleagues and staff to improve your clinical practice.
Dental Students in Phantom Head room in Portland Square.

Core modules

BDS521
Integrated Dental Science 2 40 credits

This module introduces the foundational basic and clinical sciences that underpin dental practice, including principles of human disease prevention, the safe use of ionising radiation, and the properties and appropriate use of dental biomaterials. The Integrated Dental Sciences (IDS) assessment is designed to evaluate students鈥 achievement within the cognitive domain, with a primary focus on knowledge acquisition and understanding, and limited, early-stage application. The assessment targets the lower levels of Bloom鈥檚 taxonomy, predominantly remembering and understanding, with selected items assessing basic application of scientific principles in straightforward, well-defined contexts. Questions require students to demonstrate accurate recall of core concepts, comprehension of mechanisms and principles, and the ability to recognise correct associations between foundational science and simple clinical relevance. In alignment with Miller鈥檚 pyramid, the IDS assessment is situated at the knows level, with minimal progression towards knows how, reflecting the developmental stage of Year 2 BDS students. The assessment emphasises breadth and integration of foundational knowledge across disciplines, ensuring students have a secure scientific base upon which more complex clinical reasoning and decision-making will be built in subsequent years.

BDS522
Clinical Dental Practice 2 40 credits

This module continues the students' introduction to the essential range of basic dental skills and the management of medical emergencies needed for the safe practice of primary dental care.

BDS525
Inter-Professional Engagement 2 20 credits

In year two of the programme, students are able to build on their learning from the year one inter-professional engagement project by focusing on a single community-based organisation within Devon and Cornwall. Students in small groups visit organisations to develop an understanding of how these organisations support particular community groups and/or individuals to adopt positive healthy lifestyles and how they help their clients/service users to overcome the social and organisational barriers that prevent them from achieving this.

HIPL500
Interprofessional Learning 2

BDS526
Professional Development and Lifelong Learning 2 20 credits

This module supports students to further develop reflective adult learning skills and self-awareness and assists with the development of professional behaviour and attitudes appropriate to dentistry. Every term the student will meet their Academic Tutor and reflect and review on their performance in all aspects of professionalism within the BDS programme.

Year 3

In your third year there is greater self-directed learning as you prepare project assignments, including an engagement project with students from another healthcare profession, and clinical cases. Based in 麻豆传媒映画 with transport provided to our Exeter clinic two days per week, you build upon existing skills and consolidate advanced procedures provided for patients. You will also learn how to do do a scoping review, publish this and present this at a local scientific conference. One of the themes for years 3 and 4 is to consolidate the learning of medically-related issues for the safe practice of dentistry. You are given an opportunity to learn about dentally relevant medical issues in patient-based demonstrations.
Intercalated Master of Science (MSc)
Selected students may intercalate, between Year 3 and Year 4, and undertake a one year MSc in our research laboratories in 麻豆传媒映画.
Dental students in the SDLE

Core modules

BDS631
Applied Dental Knowledge 1 20 credits

This module is designed to assess students鈥 achievement within the cognitive domain, with particular emphasis on the application, analysis, and justification of integrated scientific and clinical dental knowledge in clinically authentic scenarios. The assessment is deliberately structured to target the application and analytical levels of Bloom鈥檚 taxonomy and aligns with the knows how level of Miller鈥檚 pyramid. Questions require students to interpret clinical information, evaluate alternative management options, and justify the most appropriate course of action, reflecting the level of judgement and decision-making expected of a newly qualified, non-specialist general dental practitioner entering primary care. Topic areas include core sciences as applied to dentistry, and knowledge of the comprehensive delivery of clinical dentistry including: restorative dentistry (routine conservative, prosthodontics, periodontics, routine conservative, endodontics, dental materials, treatment planning); diagnostic and surgical (dental radiology; oral surgery; pharmacology and therapeutics; oral medicine; oral pathology; oral medicine and surgery applied to dentistry); community dentistry (preventive dentistry; dental public health; behavioural change); professionalism (behavioural skills, evidence-based dentistry; health & safety; communication skills; law & ethics; EDI and management & leadership), Life Cycle (orthodontics, paediatrics, nutrition, geriatrics) and Future skills (digital dentistry, sustainability, biotechnology and wider scope).

BDS632
Clinical Dental Practice 3 60 credits

This module provides students provides students with the ability to undertake more complex dental care for patients of all ages, the development of further skills in the simulated environment and management of medical emergencies.

BDS634
Inter-Professional Engagement 3 20 credits

Students will liaise in small groups with groups of students from other professions. Students will share working practices and work collaboratively to learn about the scope of practice of the other professional groups and provide curriculum opportunities appropriate to the needs and demands of that group in order to improve future IPE working and patient care.

HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3

BDS635
Professional Development and Lifelong Learning 3 20 credits

This module supports students to further develop reflective adult learning skills, self-awareness, evidence based practice skills and assists with the development of professional behaviour and attitudes appropriate to dentistry. Every term the student will meet their Academic Tutor and reflect and review on their performance in all aspects of professionalism within the BDS programme.

Year 4

In your fourth year you live in Truro for the whole academic year. Clinical activity expands to three days per week and you start to prepare clinical cases for finals. Clinical dentistry now embraces all of the aspects of dental care provision expected of a qualified dentist, giving you experience in advanced restorative techniques and strengthening your competence in treatment planning. You gain first-hand experience of the role and services provided by specialists in primary and secondary care, by spending time in specialist clinics such as restorative dentistry, oral surgery, oral diseases and orthodontics. You also learn how to do quality approve and audit approaches relevant to your own clinical practise.
Dental students in the lab

Core modules

BDS741
Applied Dental Knowledge 2 20 credits

BDS742
Clinical Dental Practice 4 60 credits

This module enables the student to consolidate the practice of an increasing wide range of primary care dental procedures and start to work more independently, assessing situations and making safe and appropriate decisions in managing patient care.

BDS744
Inter-Professional Engagement 4: Quality Improvement 20 credits

This module develops core academic skills, introduced earlier in the programme such as engaging critically with evidence, writing scientifically, and using appropriate sources of information. These skills are applied through a quality improvement project, in which students review the quality of clinical practice through the use of a clinical audit.

BDS745
Professional Development and Lifelong Learning 4 20 credits

This module supports students to further develop reflective adult learning skills and self-awareness and assists with the development of critical skills, professional behaviour and attitudes appropriate to dentistry. Every term the student will meet their Academic Tutor and reflect and review on their performance in all aspects of professionalism within the BDS programme.

Final year

The emphasis in your final year is on the implementation and consolidation of the skills and abilities you have learned in previous years and is the final preparation for dental practice. You become more confident with clinical situations, healthcare teams and the principles of professionalism, and discover advances in dentistry being developed for future practice. You also look at how to critically appraise the literature relevant to life as a primary care dentist, and exit the course knowing how to construct a personal development plan after 5 years experience.
Year 1 Dental students in the Life Sciences on Level 3 Portland Square.

Core modules

BDS751
Applied Dental Knowledge 3 20 credits

This module is designed to assess students鈥 achievement within the cognitive domain, with particular emphasis on the application, analysis, and justification of integrated scientific and clinical dental knowledge in clinically authentic scenarios. The assessment is deliberately structured to target the application and analytical levels of Bloom鈥檚 taxonomy and aligns with the knows how level of Miller鈥檚 pyramid. Questions require students to interpret clinical information, evaluate alternative management options, and justify the most appropriate course of action, reflecting the level of judgement and decision-making expected of a newly qualified, non-specialist general dental practitioner entering primary care. Topic areas include core sciences as applied to dentistry, and knowledge of the comprehensive delivery of clinical dentistry including: restorative dentistry (routine conservative, prosthodontics, periodontics, routine conservative, endodontics, dental materials, treatment planning); diagnostic and surgical (dental radiology; oral surgery; pharmacology and therapeutics; oral medicine; oral pathology; oral medicine and surgery applied to dentistry); community dentistry (preventive dentistry; dental public health; behavioural change); professionalism (behavioural skills, evidence-based dentistry; health & safety; communication skills; law & ethics; EDI and management & leadership), Life Cycle (orthodontics, paediatrics, nutrition, geriatrics) and Future skills (digital dentistry, sustainability, biotechnology and wider scope)

BDS752
Clinical Dental Practice 5 70 credits

This module comprises four components: Specialist Visit Reports; OSCE -style stations with unseen cases (s); Exit Case Presentations; achievement of minimum standards in clinical proficiency and capability assessments. Students visit a variety of specialist oral care facilities and further develop skills in a wide range of procedures, including patient assessment, treatment planning and delivery. Communication and professionalism are further developed within the clinical environment.

BDS755
Professional Development and Lifelong Learning 5 30 credits

Progression route for medicine graduates

If you are predicted to, or successfully complete, the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery programme at the 麻豆传媒映画, you can apply to stage one of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery programme with no time restriction after graduating as a practising doctor. You鈥檒l need to apply through UCAS to take this route, but you won鈥檛 be required to sit the GAMSAT. If shortlisted, you must successfully complete the interview process to be considered.
 
 
 

Alternative pathways

We pride ourselves on our close relationship with NHS partners, with early clinical contact for all our students.
Our range of dental and dental therapy courses have been designed with your career and the future needs of the NHS in mind.
Discover our full range of dentistry courses
Exeter Dental Education Facility - SDLE

My time as a Biomedical Science student gave me a great opportunity to explore 麻豆传媒映画 and solidified my decision to study dentistry at the Peninsula Dental School.

Sneha, a third-year Dental Surgery student, took an unconventional route to study dentistry at the University's Peninsula Dental School.

  • Approved by the General Dental Council for registration as a dentist on completion of the programme.

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University鈥檚 curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University鈥檚 policies and requirements.

Experience

Mohammed Chohan, Year 4 BDS student

Starting patient care in the first year really helped me build confidence and connect the theory to real cases. It鈥檚 been so rewarding to see my skills grow, from learning simple fillings to doing a root canal treatment on a patient.

 
 
 

Community engagement

鈥婸eninsula Dental Social Enterprise (PDSE) is a Community Interest Company (CIC). As such, everything it does is guided by the need to fulfil its 鈥榗ommunity interest statement鈥 which sets out its mission and reason for existence as a company.
Engaging directly with participants and service users in a unique and meaningful way. The team works alongside organisations and projects to support positive lifestyle choices; promoting dental health and well being.
Dental Outreach Team - two student dentists smiling with a teddy bear in a dental mask
Dental Outreach Team - group of dental students in a primary school classroom smiling
Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise CIC - students giving a talk
 
 
 

Award-winning contribution to dental training and community care

We received recognition at the Times Higher Education Awards 2023 for our continued work to provide dental care and training.
The pioneering work of the Peninsula Dental School and the Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise won the Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community category at the awards ceremony. It is recognition of the efforts of more than 100 staff and 400 students working and studying with the University, and in communities across Devon and Cornwall.
Dental dentistry students practising聽
 
 
 
Yewande Oduwole

Each year we have an inter-professional engagement module which allows us to use our skills to develop the local community. We visited the Nomony Children鈥檚 Centre and it made me realise that regardless of age there is always a way you can get someone to understand the importance of their oral health.

Yewande made the most of her time as a dental student by taking on multiple entrepreneurial and humanitarian projects.

 
 
 

Explore our facilities

From progressive clinical spaces to Simulated Dental Learning Environments, you'll benefit from exceptional dental education facilities across our locations in 麻豆传媒映画, Exeter and Truro.
Whether you're treating patients through our award-winning or working in the wider NHS in Devon and Cornwall, you will encounter people with a variety of oral diseases and systemic conditions. This interaction with patients will develop your ability to think and perform as an expert, alongside your understanding of the impact and importance of working with a team of professionals.
Discover our dental education facilities
Derriford Dental Education Facility
 
 

Teaching and learning

We draw on the strengths of the University and NHS partners to deliver an exciting and innovative dental degree that is carefully structured to ensure you possess the knowledge, skills and attitudes required for entry into your first clinical job.
We have exceptional facilities across five locations: Portland Square on the main campus, Devonport and Derriford in 麻豆传媒映画, and in Exeter and Truro.
Dental students with masks
 
 
 

Learn from experienced dental professionals

We pride ourselves on our cutting-edge, research informed curriculum which ensures that you are equipped with the latest evidence, as well as the research skills to support patients鈥 recovery.
Our staff are experienced dental professionals engaged in active research, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge and clinical experience into the classroom, which you will apply in clinical practice.
Dr Amanda Addy Clinical Lecturer in Dental Education and Co-Lead Year 1


Clinical Lecturer in Dental Education and Co-Lead Year 1

Dr Araz Ahmed NIHR Academic Clinical Lecturer in Oral Surgery


NIHR Academic Clinical Lecturer in Oral Surgery

Dr Ness Avery Clinical Lecturer in Dental Education


Clinical Lecturer in Dental Education

Show all
 
 
 

Join Peninsula Dental Society 'DentSoc'

Since 2006, Peninsula Dental School has welcomed friendly, intelligent, and driven Dentistry and Dental Therapy and Hygiene students. A few years later, Peninsula Dental Society was founded. We offer revision sessions, volunteering opportunities and a variety of social events throughout the year, including a Christmas Dinner and an annual Summer Ball. 
We are proud of the diversity among our students and are always looking for more ways to celebrate the differences in our cultures. 
Dental students on a project with 麻豆传媒映画 Community Homes residents on a project on diet with a 'Mad Hatter's Tea Party'
 
 
 

Life in 麻豆传媒映画

麻豆传媒映画's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don鈥檛 need to leave the city to get to the coast!

麻豆传媒映画 is a wonderfully varied city, with plenty of entertainment to suit all tastes! Personally I love the seafront restaurants on the Barbican Marina and the surfing spots dotted along the coastline, but there are pubs, theatres, restaurants and water sports to suit everyone.

Kyle
Dentistry student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what 麻豆传媒映画 and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Group of female members of cheerleading society
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

Liz Eilertsen performing dentistry on a patient

The clinics taught us to see patients holistically 鈥 it's never just a case of treating a tooth then going home; there's so much else that you're taught and encouraged to explore, and it really kickstarted my career path.

Liz, BDS Dental Surgery, MSc Oral Surgery graduate
Director of Eilertsen Dental Care

 
 
Dr Zoe Brookes

Dentistry offers a huge variety of career pathways and I have taken full advantage of this to create an interesting and varied career that suits me.

窜辞毛, BDS Dental Surgery graduate
Lecturer and Dental Associate 

Studying dental surgery at the 麻豆传媒映画 will enable you to commence a rewarding career within the health sector. With an ongoing demand for dentists across the UK, employment prospects for dental surgery graduates remain very good.
As a dentist, you鈥檒l usually oversee a team of dental nurses, hygienists, therapists, and technicians, providing care to a diverse range of patients, from young children to older adults. Additionally you could specialise in areas such as academic, hospital, community of armed forces dentistry. 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time UK students starting in
 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
拢9,790 per year
Tuition fees for new full-time UK students starting in
 2027-2028 academic year.
Full-time study
拢10,050 per year
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about fees and costs of studying.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in
 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
拢41,920 per year
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in
 2027-2028 academic year.
Full-time study
拢43,175 per year
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying.
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student鈥檚 tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government鈥檚 final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 
 
 
 
 

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Health. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to placement activities or equipment requirements.  
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at 麻豆传媒映画, there may be funding options available to you, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
Our typical offer:
A*AA - AAB

Academic requirements

In order to meet the academic requirements for this course, you must have one of the following combinations of qualifications:
  • GCSE, A levels and UCAT
  • GAMSAT
  • A levels and stage 1 of either Biomedical Science or Human Biosciences with the 麻豆传媒映画. Degree study at other institutions is not considered.
  • A degree course through the 麻豆传媒映画 School of Biomedical Sciences. Degree study at other institutions is not considered.
None of the typical offers listed below are necessarily the threshold for interview selection. Other factors including the number of applications received and performance in the influence the threshold for interview selection.
Please note 鈥 we are unable to consider applications from students who have academically failed a previous dental degree or incurred Fitness to Practise (FtP) proceedings. If you apply and indicate you have previously enrolled onto a dental degree elsewhere, the School will contact your former institution for confirmation of any academic failure or FtP.
Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this course.

GCSE
7 GCSE passes (grade C/grade 4 or higher) which must include the following subjects:
  • English Language
  • Mathematics
  • Two science subjects 鈥 either GCSE Double Award Science or two from single award chemistry, biology or physics.
We are unable to consider functional skills in lieu of GCSEs.

A level
The typical offer is A*AA 鈥 AAB at GCE A level which must include the following:
  • Grade A in Biology
  • Grade A in a second science from Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology
  • Your third GCE A level can be from any subject area and does not need to be science based. When shortlisting for interview we do not give preference to those who complete three Science A levels. General Studies is not accepted
For AAB offers please refer to the Widening Access section.
We are only able to consider A levels completed within five years of the start of the application cycle. For example, qualifications completed since 2022 would still be valid when applying in September 2027.
If your A levels outdate this, please refer to the GAMSAT section below.

A level alternative qualifications
The following qualifications can be considered in place of A levels, alongside the standard GCSE and UCAT requirement.
We are only able to consider qualifications completed within five years of the start of the application cycle. For example, qualifications completed since 2022 would still be valid when applying in September 2027.
If your qualifications outdate this, please refer to the GAMSAT section below.
International Baccalaureate
36鈥38 points overall to include the following:
  • Higher Level 6 in Biology
  • Higher Level 6 in one further science from Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology
Scottish Advanced Highers
AAA to include the following:
  • Grade A in Biology
  • Grade A in one further science from Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology.
We are unable to consider Scottish Highers for entry onto this course.
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge
The Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge can be considered in place of a third A Level alongside Biology and a second science from Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology.
Irish Leaving Certificate
H1, H1, H2, H2, H2, H2 to include Biology and one further science from Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology.
Cambridge Pre-U Diploma
D3, D3, D3 including Biology and one further science from Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology.
For widening access applicants, we will consider M2 in place of grade B at A level.
Other UK qualifications
We do not consider any UK Level 3 qualifications for this course that are not listed above. If you do not have any of the above qualifications, please refer to the GAMSAT section below.
Qualifications completed outside of the UK
We welcome applicants with qualifications from outside of the UK and assess comparability to UK qualifications using UK ENIC.
In order to check the academic suitability of your qualification, please contact the Admissions Team on admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

UCAT
As part of our commitment to a fair and transparent admissions process, Peninsula Dental School uses the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) in order to make informed choices from amongst the many highly qualified applicants who apply for a place on the BDS programme. UCAT test results will be used alongside A Levels and GCSEs to select for interview. The Admissions Advisory Panel reserve the right to consider all aspects of the UCAT when shortlisting for interview.
The UCAT is valid for 12 months and must be sat in the year of application.
The UCAT threshold score applied to determine candidate selection for interview can alter each year and is influenced by overall candidate performance in the UCAT and the number and quality of applications received. Listed below is the average UCAT threshold from the last 3 academic years 2023鈥2026, prospective applicants may wish to use this to help determine their chances of selection. Unfortunately, we will not be able to confirm the cut off for the coming academic year until all applications have been received and assessed.
UCAT threshold 2026
Home: 2120
UCAT Widening Participation Home: 2100
International: 2140
UCAT average threshold 2023鈥2025
Home: 2650
International: 2613
Please note the UCAT changed for 2026 entry. In 2025, Abstract Reasoning was withdrawn from the test. The test now comprises 3 cognitive subtests (Verbal Reasoning, Decision Making and Quantitative Reasoning) alongside the Situational Judgement Test. Please refer to the UCAT website for further details. To help you make your university choices, you may want to understand how your test result relates to overall candidate performance. You may also be interested to know how your score compares with those used by universities in previous years. For further information on this, please refer to the .
If you have sat the UCATSEN please be aware that you will need to provide standard evidence of your entitlement to this additional time by submitting the following:
  • If you are still in education, an official letter from your school, college, University that states that on the basis of a diagnosis from a qualified medical practitioner, educational psychologist or specialist teacher the candidate is currently entitled to additional time in public examinations (or have had additional time in public examinations within the last 2 years);
Or
  • If you are no longer in education, a post-16 year鈥檚 diagnosis or report from a qualified medical practitioner or educational psychologist that explicitly recommends additional time in public examinations.

Graduate Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT)
Peninsula Dental School uses the as an alternative entry route to A levels. We are unable to consider previous degree study for this programme, other than through the routes outlined in the 鈥業nternal Transfer Options鈥 section below. Candidates holding degrees or without suitable A Levels should therefore sit the GAMSAT to meet the entry criteria. Please note that although the GAMSAT is called a graduate admissions test, you do not need to be a graduate to sit the GAMSAT or apply with this qualification.
GAMSAT assesses your academic aptitude for the study of dentistry. Results from the test are the only academic qualification that will affect the shortlisting process and previous qualifications will not be considered. The results are valid for 2 years but must be sat by September in the year of application at the latest.
GAMSAT will take 4 hours with a written communication section taken separately, which should be approximately 1.5 hours. It assesses your reasoning in Humanities, Social Science, Biological Science, Physical Science and Written Communication. As this test only assesses academic aptitude, if you're successful you'll still need to show us at interview that you have the appropriate personal qualities to train and practise as a doctor.
If you'd like to know more or to register for the test, please visit the
Below are examples of the score thresholds applied in previous admissions cycles. We are unable to set the GAMSAT threshold in advance of the application deadline, instead all GAMSAT applicants are ranked based on scores achieved.
2023 Entry Section and Overall Scores
Section 1: 50
Section 2: 50
Section 3: 51
Overall: 55
2024 Entry Section and Overall Scores
Section 1: 51
Section 2: 54
Section 3: 49
Overall: 52
2025 Entry Section and Overall Scores
Section 1: 46
Section 2: 45
Section 3: 56
Overall: 53
2026 Entry (Home)
Section 1: 54
Section 2: 59
Section 3: 54
Overall: 56 
2026 Entry (International)
Section 1: 59
Section 2: 63
Section 3: 69
Overall: 65 
Please note that if you have already completed a degree, you will be unable to access a second student loan through Student Finance England. As such, within the conditions of your offer you will be required to provide evidence that you have funds available to cover tuition costs for the full duration of the programme.
 
 
 

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
A206
Institution code
P60
Duration

5 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
麻豆传媒映画, Exeter and Truro

Other routes into this course

The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

BDS Dental Surgery with Integrated Foundation Year

An alternative dentistry route for students impacted by adversity, using Enquiry Based Learning (EBL) to build academic, personal, and professional skills and ease the transition into university life.

 
Peninsula Dental School welcomes and encourages applications from suitably qualified international students who are either self-funded, supported by scholarships from their respective governments, or sponsored by scholarship programmes operated by the British Council and similar funding bodies.
If you are an international applicant, you need to meet the equivalent admissions criteria described for home students, including the UCAT. Applicants applying with overseas qualifications should contact the Admissions Team (admissions@plymouth.ac.uk) prior to submitting an application through UCAS.
BSc (Hons) International Relations with Spanish
 

English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.

Need support with your application?

  • Personal statement guidance
  • student visa support
  • travel and arrival information
  • and more.
UCAS course code
A206
Institution code
P60
Duration

5 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
麻豆传媒映画, Exeter and Truro
 
We are dedicated to ensuring equitable access to higher education for all students, through alternative entry routes such as the Widening Access scheme, to deliver better opportunities into dentistry.
麻豆传媒映画 University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry holding the Dental Summer Mix. A group of 14-19 year olds who are taking part in the Dental Summer Mix because they want to know more about becoming a dentist.

Widening access contextual offers
For applicants from widening access backgrounds, we will accept AAB at GCE A Level, which must include the following:
  • Grade A in Biology
  • Grade A in a second science from Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology
  • Your third A level can be from any subject area and does not need to be science based. When shortlisting for interview we do not give preference to those who complete three science A Levels. General Studies is not accepted
UCAT and GCSE requirements remain the same for all applicants.
For students sitting the IB, the widening access offer would equate to 35 points overall with Higher Level 6 in Biology and Higher Level 6 in another science.
The resit policy for Widening Participation students is ABC.

Widening access contextual markers
All applicants, in addition to meeting or exceeding the published academic criteria above will need to meet a total of at least 5 points from any combination of the following criteria:
Each worth 3 points
  • Being a South West resident (Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset)
  • Significant engagement in the 麻豆传媒映画 Peninsula Pathways programme
Each worth 2 points
  • Being in care, a carer or care experienced (evidence required by school/doctor/local authority or social worker)
  • Being in receipt or eligible for free school meals during your level 3 qualifications
  • Refugee status
  • Attending a low performing school/college based on 16-18 performance
  • In receipt of EMA or 16-19 bursary
  • In receipt of UCAT bursary
  • Veterans, having served at least 5 years of active service.
Each worth 1 point
  • Living in an area categorised as being in 1-4 or local equivalent
  • Living in a low participation area as determined by POLAR4 quintile 1 postcode analysis
  • In receipt of service pupil premium.

Explanation of above terms

In care/care leaver/carer
Being in care, a carer or care-experienced 鈥 Evidenced by school, doctor, local authority or social worker letter submitted by applicant at the point of application to the student portal (link to portal automatically sent when a UCAS application is received).
Note: A care experienced student is someone who has spent any amount of time in local authority care, such as foster care or residential children's homes, but may not meet the definition of a care leaver.
Free school meals
Being in receipt of free school meals whilst completing your level 3 qualifications, at the school/college you undertook these qualifications 鈥 evidenced by school letter submitted by applicant at the point of application to the student portal (link to portal automatically sent when a UCAS application is received).
Refugee status
Evidenced by either an official letter from the Home Office or preferably a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), submitted by the applicant at the point of application to the student portal (link to portal automatically sent when a UCAS application is received).
Where English is not your first language and you do not have a GCSE or IGCSE Grade 4 in English language you, must have an alternative English language qualification. Examples of acceptable language qualifications are the Certificate of Proficiency in English (Cambridge - Grade C) or the International English Language Testing System IELTS (at least 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.5 in every element).
School performance
Attending or attended a whilst completing your level 3 qualifications e.g. 16鈥18 performance in the 鈥榖elow鈥 or 鈥榳ell below average鈥 classifications.
  • If you attend a secondary school or college in England, please visit the website.
  • If you attend a secondary school or college in Wales, please visit website.
  • If you attend a secondary school or college in Northern Ireland, please visit the website.
  • If you attend a secondary school or college in Scotland, please visit the website.
UCAT, EMA or 16-19 bursary
In receipt of one or more of these bursaries. UCAT bursary entitlement can be evidenced by providing a copy of your award email or a copy of your invoice showing a deduction of the test fee. EMA or 16-19 bursary entitlement to be evidenced by an official award letter or a school letter. Documents should be submitted at the point of application to the student portal (link to portal automatically sent when a UCAS application is received).
Indices of Mass Deprivation
Living in an area categorised as being in Indices of Mass Deprivation (IMD) 1鈥4 or 20% most deprived as determined by your , , , and .
POLAR4
Living in a low participation neighbourhood as determined by your (POLAR4 quintile 1).
South West resident
Currently living in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset or Somerset as determined by your postcode.
Service pupil premium
Being in receipt of service pupil premium 鈥 Evidenced by school letter submitted by applicant at the point of application to the student portal (link to portal automatically sent when a UCAS application is received).
Significant engagement in the 麻豆传媒映画 Peninsula Pathways programme
Significant engagement includes completion of the five-day summer Work Experience Programme, being a member of the e-Mentoring scheme and having attended a minimum of three of the various Peninsula Pathways workshops by the end of Year 12.

UKWPMED
For applicants who are part of the UKWPMED scheme, we will accept ABB at A Level, which must include the following:
  • Grade A in Biology
  • Grade B in a second science from Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology
  • Your third A level can be from any subject area, we do not give preference to three science A levels. General Studies is not accepted.
If you are applying through participation in the UKWPMED scheme, please ensure you have flagged your participation in the scheme on your UCAS application. We will contact the relevant university for confirmation of your participation.

Internal transfer options
The 麻豆传媒映画 offers its students the opportunity to apply for this course through two internal routes:
This is a competitive route into our medical degree and is not guaranteed to any candidate. We are able to interview 20 candidates between medicine and dentistry and offer places to a total of 10 individuals across the programmes.
Stage one of degrees studied elsewhere will not be considered.
Students enrolled on stage one of BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science or BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences should apply via UCAS by the published deadline for medicine.
Successful candidates commence study of BDS Dental Surgery from stage one.
Stage one transfer applicants must meet these academic criteria:
  • Have achieved AAB at A level to include A in Biology and A in a second science from Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics or Psychology.
  • A minimum of 70% average across all Year 1 degree modules.
Most alternative level 3 qualifications, equivalent to AAB at A level will be considered as described above. For example, International Baccalaureate: 35 points overall with Higher Level 6 in Biology and Higher Level 6 in another science. Note that BTEC and Access course qualifications are not considered for entry via this route.
  • An interview process is required however UCAT is not required.

Graduate entry
We will consider graduates from the 麻豆传媒映画 School of Biomedical Sciences for entry onto stage one of the BDS programme. This route is valid for two years after graduation and all applications must be made via UCAS.
Graduate entry applicants must meet the following criterion:
  • Have achieved, or be predicted to achieve, a First Class degree (70% or higher) in a 麻豆传媒映画 School of Biomedical Sciences Bachelors degree programme.
  • An interview is required however UCAT or GAMSAT are not required.
Degrees completed outside of the 麻豆传媒映画 will not be considered, such applicants should instead sit the GAMSAT.
Please note that if you have already completed a degree, you may not be eligible for a second student loan 鈥 please contact for advice.
Within your offer conditions you will be required to provide evidence that you have funds available to cover tuition costs for the first four years of the programme.

Re-sit applicants
Re-sit applicants are considered for this course, with the following requirements:
  • If you are applying with predicted grades, a minimum of ABB must be achieved on first attempt of A levels 
  • Where ABB is not achieved on first attempt, applicants must re-sit the required qualifications and apply once suitable grades have been achieved  
  • A level or accepted equivalent qualifications must be completed in no more than 5 years of study, unless otherwise advised 
  • A suitable qualification profile must be achieved on first re-sit attempt
We do not have an AS level resit policy, however, full A levels must be completed within the above timeframe.
IB resit policy: A minimum of 34 points overall with Higher Level 5 in Biology and Higher Level 5 in another science must be achieved on first sitting. 
Irish Leaving Certificate resit policy: must achieve H1 H2 H2 H2 H3 H3 at first attempt to include Biology and 2nd science
The resit policy for Widening Participation students is ABC/BBB.
For re-sit criteria of other qualifications, please contact the Admissions Team at applications@plymouth.ac.uk.

Selection and admissions process
Applications should be made through UCAS by the published deadline. This is 18:00 (GMT) on 15 October. You can apply to no more than four of the same clinical course choice, so although you cannot apply for five dental courses, four dental courses and one medical course would be permitted. Further information is available through the . 
You may also wish to consider an alternative course such as BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science or BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences as your fifth choice. Please note that there are other available courses that we run at the 麻豆传媒映画 so please refer to our main course pages.
All decisions on applications are made by the Senior Admissions team. 
The 麻豆传媒映画 Medicine and Dentistry Admissions Team process applications as follows:
  1. Shortlisting for interview 鈥 Applicants are considered for interview based on relevant academic qualifications alone. We do not consider personal statements or work experience when selecting for interview. The Senior Admissions Team consider many factors when choosing who will be invited to attend an interview, including the number of places available on the course and the number of applications received, alongside the academic profiles of all our applicants.
  2. Interview 鈥 Applicants who are successful at the initial selection stage will be invited to attend an interview. We use Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) as our interview format. Interviews will normally take place face-to-face. If you live outside the UK and are unable to attend in person, please contact our Interview Team to discuss alternative arrangements: Email: interviewtostudy@plymouth.ac.uk or Telephone: +44 (0) 1752 585858, option 2. Further information about the interview process and arrangements will be provided to applicants when they are invited to interview. Following interviews, candidates are ranked based on the score achieved and the top performing applicants are offered a place on the course.
  3. Offer 鈥 Offers are made via UCAS. Within all offers, candidates are required to complete a series of health and police checks, full details of which are communicated to firm offer holders by the Admissions Team.
Practising as a dentist requires the highest standards and we take seriously our commitment to only enrol and teach students with the integrity required of the profession. Full details can be found on our Student Conduct and Fitness to Practise page.

Deferred entry
Unfortunately we cannot permit deferred entry. However, if you have a query please contact the admissions team who will be able to explain the application process in more detail at applications@plymouth.ac.uk.

Frequently asked questions
Dentistry is an incredibly competitive course. What are my chances of being offered a place?
Typically, we invite around 60% of applicants for interview and about 25% of applicants are offered a place. The exact numbers fluctuate year on year however applications for dental surgery are always highly subscribed. We would encourage you to focus instead on your application and choosing a course that will best suit your personality and aspirations.
I am unable to obtain predicted grades for my qualifications. Will my application still be considered?
For the majority of qualifications being studied we are unable to consider any applicant who cannot provide predicted grades for pending qualifications.
Do you consider late applications?
We are unable to consider any applications received by UCAS after the deadline, which is 18:00 (GMT) on 15 October. To ensure your application is considered, please do not leave it until the last minute, you will need to allow time for your school or college to add your reference and officially submit your application.
If you applied on time but changed your mind about your university choices, we will consider your application assuming you are within the 14 day cooling off period set by UCAS and your application was submitted prior to the deadline.
I will be turning 18 after the course has commenced. Will my application be considered?
For insurance purposes, we are unable to send any student who is under the age of 18 on placement or allow them to enter certain learning environments. Such sessions are mandatory and take place from the outset of the academic year, so we cannot enrol any candidate who has not turned 18 prior to the end of induction week. 
Do you consider transfers from other Dental Schools?
We are unable to consider any transfers or degree study, regardless of extenuating circumstances, from any university other than the 麻豆传媒映画.
When will interviews take place?
Interviews typically take place between late January and early April. If you are invited to interview, you will be able to select your preferred available date through our online booking system, which can be accessed via your applicant portal. We aim to provide applicants with as much notice as possible to allow sufficient time to prepare and make any necessary arrangements.
Where will interviews take place?
Interviews for the current admissions cycle will take place face-to-face at the 麻豆传媒映画. Further information about the interview location, arrival arrangements and what to expect on the day will be provided to applicants invited to interview.
I have personal issues that I am worried could have affected my interview/exam performance. Do you consider extenuating circumstances?
Whilst we sympathise with the unfortunate situation you have experienced, in the interest of fairness to all our applicants we are unable to consider any extenuating circumstances at any stage of the admissions process.
Will you have places available through Clearing?
Places are very rarely available through Clearing for this course. However, we may operate a reserve list once the interview and selection process has been completed. If places do become available through Clearing, this will depend on availability at that time. You are welcome to contact us on Results Day to check whether any places are available.
I have been given an offer but I am worried that I will not meet the academic criteria. What will happen if I don鈥檛 achieve the required grades?
We understand that applying for university and sitting exams is an incredibly stressful time. We will be unable to confirm whether we can accept your application if you do not meet the required grades until A level results day. At this point, we will know how all of our applicants have performed and the Senior Admissions team will decide whether reduced grades will be considered. While we have softened entry requirements in the past, there is no guarantee this will be the case.
If we lower our grade thresholds during confirmation, reduced grade(s) offers will only apply to those students starting the course in the current cycle. Deferred applicants will still be required to meet their original offer conditions.
 
 
 

Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the 麻豆传媒映画.
Book your place
Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
 
 
 
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.