Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Dental Therapy and Hygiene with Integrated Foundation Year
This course supports students aiming for Dental Therapy and Hygiene who are not yet qualified for direct entry. It builds scientific knowledge and skills, fostering independent learning. Qualified Dental Nurses may find it especially valuable.
Our typical offer
64 UCAS points
A top UK university for dentistry
Our student experience, feedback and career outcomes make Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» a top UK choice* in the of the best universities for dentistry in 2026.
*Ranked 6th in the UK
*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 Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³», 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.
you're passionate about providing patient-centred dental care
you seek early clinical exposure to develop practical skills
you're eager to engage with diverse communities to enhance oral health
you aspire to become a competent and caring dental therapist or hygienist, ready to make a difference
Details
Foundation year
The integrated foundation year provides an opportunity to study the biomedical and life sciences which underpin the contemporary clinical BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy and Hygiene programme in dedicated facilities with expert staff, before embarking on year one of the BSc course.
It is specifically designed to make the transition to a BSc as smooth as possible, with dedicated learning outcomes tailored to your profession. You will also have the opportunity to experience the assessment methods you will encounter in years one, two and three.
By meeting the relevant entry requirements at the end of your foundation year, you will have the opportunity to progress onto a pioneering, clinical course with state of the art facilities provided by the established Peninsula Dental School Enterprise (PDSE), a Community Interest Company (CIC).
Core modules
BDT003
Learning Skills for Dentistry
20 credits
This module is designed to underpin learning in other modules, equipping students with the skills required to succeed at University level study. It will provide opportunity to acquire generalizable skills and help students to become effective independent learners.
50% Coursework
50% Other
BHCS001
Infection, Immunity and Therapeutics
20 credits
This module will provide an introduction to microbiology and the human immune system. Students will learn the fundamental biology relating to bacteria, helminths, viruses and fungi. And also develop an understanding of how our immune system has evolved to combat infection. The module will also explore methods to control microbial contamination and therapeutic strategies to prevent disease.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
BHCS002
Current Developments in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences
20 credits
This module examines the role of science in addressing key contemporary issues in Human Biology and Biomedical Sciences. The module aims to take an integrative approach, aiming to develop in students both a critical appreciation of the ways in which issues in Human Biology can be approached and resolved, and to develop an understanding of the skills and attributes needed for effective study of such issues at undergraduate level.
100% Coursework
FMD001
Molecules to Cells
20 credits
This module introduces key concepts involved in cell regulation including genetic inheritance, metabolism and protein expression. The important role of enzymes in the control of biochemical pathways will be introduced, as will an introduction to cell signalling. Cellular organisation within different tissues will also be outlined, enabling students to recognise links between structure and function. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.
100% Examinations
FMD002
Introduction to Human Physiology
20 credits
This module will provide a foundation of knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Using example systems, it will emphasise relationships between structure and function and examine homeostatic regulation in these systems. Students should develop sufficient theoretical and practical understanding to enable progression to relevant honours degree programmes.
50% Examinations
50% Other
FMD004
Interdisciplinary Learning and Team Based Learning (Enquiry learning)
20 credits
This module is designed to enable learners to develop key skills required for working in multidisciplinary teams. Students will be encouraged to work with their colleagues to manage tasks and tailor learning according to their own particular discipline
100% Coursework
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
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’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
You learn alongside Bachelor of Dental Surgery students throughout, and work together as a team to offer a holistic approach to patient care. Not only does this enhance your teamwork and communication skills, it gives you a real-life insight into how dental therapists and hygienists can be utilised in practice.
Explore our facilities
From progressive clinical spaces to Simulated Dental Learning Environments, you will benefit from exceptional
dental education facilities throughout your time studying the programme.
Take a virtual tour of our fantastic facilities, including our lecture theatres, cafe, learning resource centres and much more.
Community engagement
PDSE is a Community Interest Company (CIC). Everything it does is guided by the need to fulfil its community interest statement 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 wellbeing.
Our work to combine first-rate dental training with outstanding community care was rewarded at the Times Higher Education Awards 2023.
The Peninsula Dental School gave me invaluable experience in treating patients from many diverse backgrounds and enabled me to develop a passion for community dentistry. I strongly believe dental care is something everyone should be able to access, even more so due to the impact oral health can have on systemic health and general wellbeing.
Chloe, BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy and Hygiene graduate
Learn from experienced healthcare 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’ 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.
Professor Zoe Brookes
Professor of Integrated Dental Healthcare
Lorna Burns
Associate Head of Postgraduate Taught
Professor Cathy Coelho
Clinical Facilitator/Supervisor (Dentist)
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.
Life in Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»'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’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
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
Dental therapy and hygiene is a rewarding and fulfilling career, offering constant learning, variety, and the chance to make a real impact. No two days are the same, and you’ll never be bored!
Alex, BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy and Hygiene graduate
The clinics taught us to see patients holistically – 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
Director of Eilertsen Dental Care
Studying dental therapy and hygiene at the Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» will enable you to commence a rewarding career within the health sector.
We draw on the strengths of the University and NHS partners to deliver an exciting and innovative dental degree programme. Carefully structured to ensure you will possess the knowledge, skills and attitudes required for entry into your first clinical job.
With an ongoing demand for dentists across the UK, employment prospects for dentistry graduates remain very good.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time UK students starting in
Full-time study
£9,790 per year
£9,790 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
To be confirmed per credits
To be confirmed per credits
Tuition fees for new full-time UK students starting in
Full-time study
£10,050 per year
£10,050 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
To be confirmed per credits
To be confirmed per credits
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
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
£19,200 per year
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in
Full-time study
£19,800 per year
£19,800 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’s 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’s 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 Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³», there may be funding options available to you, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
You may be eligible for a £5000 NHS training grant
The NHS Learning Support Fund provides additional funding for eligible healthcare students. It is supplementary financial support to the mainstream student loans system and is intended to support students whilst they train and gain professional registration. The is for at least £5,000.
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.
Apply
Entry requirements
Please note the following information concerning entry requirements for this course:
- None of the typical offers listed below are necessarily the threshold for interview selection. Other factors including the number of applications received may influence the threshold for interview selection.
- Applicants for this course must not meet the Level 3 and GCSE grade requirements for the three-year Dental Therapy and Hygiene course (B750). However, if you only meet some elements of the three year programme, for example the GCSE but not the Level 3 requirement, you would be considered for the foundation course.
- We will only consider an application from each candidate for either Dental Therapy and Hygiene with Foundation Year or Dental Therapy and Hygiene. Offers will not be made for both programmes.
GCSE
Applicants need to achieve 6 GCSE passes (grade C/grade 4 or higher) which must include the following subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Two Science subjects – either GCSE Double Award Science or two from single award Chemistry, Biology, or Physics
Plus suitable Level 3 qualifications as outlined below:
Level 3 qualifications
Experience in lieu of Level 3 entry requirements
At least 2 years in practice experience as a qualified registered Dental Nurse and an A level in Biology at grade C is mandatory.
At least 2 years in practice experience as a qualified registered Dental Nurse and an A level in Biology at grade C is mandatory.
OR
A level
CC at GCE A level, which must include A level Biology.
CC at GCE A level, which must include A level Biology.
We are only able to consider Level 3 qualifications completed within five years of the start of the application cycle. For example, qualifications completed since 2019 would still be valid when applying in September 2024.
BTEC National Extended Diploma
DMM in Applied Science or Health and Social Care, including sufficient Biology content containing at lesat 4 of the preferred modules. Due to the competitiveness of entry onto this course, it is also highly recommended that applicants complete an A Level in Biology at grade C or above alongside a suitable BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma.
DMM in Applied Science or Health and Social Care, including sufficient Biology content containing at lesat 4 of the preferred modules. Due to the competitiveness of entry onto this course, it is also highly recommended that applicants complete an A Level in Biology at grade C or above alongside a suitable BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma.
BTEC National Diploma
DM in a predominantly science subject area. As desirable, an A level in Biology is also strongly advised alongside this qualification at grade C.
DM in a predominantly science subject area. As desirable, an A level in Biology is also strongly advised alongside this qualification at grade C.
City & Guilds Extended Diploma in Dental Nursing
Distinction and an A level in Biology at grade C is mandatory.
Distinction and an A level in Biology at grade C is mandatory.
Access to Higher Education Diploma
Pass an Access to HE Diploma in a predominantly science subject area with 15 Merits and 30 Pass Credits. Due to the competitiveness of entry onto this course, it is also highly recommended that applicants complete an A Level in Biology at grade C or above alongside a suitable Access to Higher Education Diploma.
Pass an Access to HE Diploma in a predominantly science subject area with 15 Merits and 30 Pass Credits. Due to the competitiveness of entry onto this course, it is also highly recommended that applicants complete an A Level in Biology at grade C or above alongside a suitable Access to Higher Education Diploma.
International Baccalaureate
24 points overall to include Higher Level 4 in a Science subject. Due to the competitiveness of entry onto this course, it is also highly recommended that applicants complete an A Level in Biology at grade C or above alongside a suitable International Baccalaureate Diploma.
24 points overall to include Higher Level 4 in a Science subject. Due to the competitiveness of entry onto this course, it is also highly recommended that applicants complete an A Level in Biology at grade C or above alongside a suitable International Baccalaureate Diploma.
GNVQ and AGNVQ
Passes in Science subjects.
Passes in Science subjects.
Selection and admissions process
Applications should be made through by the published deadline. This is typically 15 January.
All decisions on applications are made by the Admissions Advisory Panel, which consists of academics, clinicians and senior members of the administrative team.
The Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» Medicine and Dentistry Admissions Team process applications as follows:
1. Shortlisting for interview – Applicants are considered for interview based on relevant academic qualifications alone. We do not currently consider personal statements or work experience when selecting for interview.
The Admissions Advisory Panel 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 of our applicant
2. Interview – Successful applicants are invited to attend an interview process. We use Multiple Mini Interviews (MMI) as the format for our interviews, and full details can be found on the
Medicine and Dentistry selection and admissions process page.
Following interviews, candidates are ranked based on the score achieved and the top performing applicants are offered a place on the course
3. Offer – 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 doctor 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.
Full details of our selection and admissions process can be found on our
Medicine and Dentistry selection and admissions process page.
Student Conduct and Fitness to Practise
Please view our
Student Conduct and Fitness to Practise page.
Please view our
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 admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
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
B751
B751
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(with placements)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
If you intend to practice in your home country post-graduation please ensure you check with the nations’ dental council before committing to study with us. Individual requirements are often not very transparent and you should confirm whether our degree is transferable overseas before submitting an application.
To confirm whether your qualification will be considered, please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
All teaching at our school is in English, so if you are an international applicant you must have one of the following English Language qualifications. If you are unsure whether your English Language qualification is suitable, please contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
The University will no longer accept the IELTS indicator (online test). All applicants will have to take the IELTS test at an approved centre.
We know that university life is a challenge for any student but especially when you are a long way from home. You will find us friendly and supportive. We pride ourselves on being friendly and supportive, and have a nominated academic tutor to coordinate the induction and academic support provided to international students.
Students who have an offer of a place should apply under for a Student (formerly Tier 4 General Student) visa. Further information is available on the .
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
B751
B751
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
(with placements)
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»
Selection and admissions process
Applications should be made through UCAS by the published deadline. This is typically 15 January.
All decisions on applications are made by the Senior Admissions team.
The Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» Medicine and Dentistry Admissions Team process applications as follows:
- Shortlisting for interview – Applicants are considered for interview based on relevant academic qualifications alone, with the consideration of contextual markers applied to grades where applicable. We do not currently 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 of our applicant
- Interview – 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.
- Offer – 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 therapist 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.
Full details of our selection and admissions process can be found can be found on the
BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy and Hygiene page under 'Apply' > ‘Further admissions information’.
Student Conduct and Fitness to Practise
Please view 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 30% of applicants for interview and about 25% of applicants are offered a place. The exact numbers fluctuate year on year however applications for dental therapy are always highly subscribed.
Typically, we invite around 30% of applicants for interview and about 25% of applicants are offered a place. The exact numbers fluctuate year on year however applications for dental therapy 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.
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 13 January. 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.
We are unable to consider any applications received by UCAS after the deadline, which is 18:00 (GMT) on 13 January. 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.
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 Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³».
We are unable to consider any transfers or degree study, regardless of extenuating circumstances, from any university other than the Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³».
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.
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 Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³». Further information about the interview location, arrival arrangements and what to expect on the day will be provided to applicants invited to interview.
Interviews for the current admissions cycle will take place face-to-face at the Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³». 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.
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.
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’t 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 Admissions Advisory Panel 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.
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 Admissions Advisory Panel 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 Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³».
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