BDS Dental Surgery at University of Plymouth

Programme overview

BDS Dental Surgery combines dental training with community dental care, with patient contact and clinical experience from year one. Teaching is delivered across Plymouth, Exeter and Truro, with clinical activity increasing through the programme.

Faculty: Faculty of Health | Department: Peninsula Dental School | Duration: 5 years full-time (with placements) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Plymouth, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 teaches the scientific foundations of dentistry in a clinical context, with a focus on dental health and disease prevention. Year 2 deepens disease mechanisms and common dental problems with clinics in Plymouth two days a week. Year 3 adds self-directed project work and clinic in Exeter. Year 4 is based in Truro with clinical activity three days a week, and the final year consolidates skills for dental practice.

Career pathways

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Typical offer A*AA to AAB at A level, including Grade A in Biology and Grade A in a second science (Chemistry, Physics, Maths or Psychology); the third A level can be any subject and general studies is not accepted. GCSE: 7 passes at grade C/4 or higher including English Language, Mathematics and two science subjects. Alternatives: International Baccalaureate 36-38 points with Higher Level 6 in Biology and a second science; Scottish Advanced Highers AAA including Biology and a further science (Highers not accepted); Irish Leaving Certificate H1, H1, H2, H2, H2, H2 including Biology and a further science; Cambridge Pre-U D3, D3, D3 including Biology and a further science. Level 3 qualifications must be completed within five years of the application cycle. UCAT is required (shortlisting for interview uses UCAT, A levels and GCSEs); candidates without suitable A levels may use GAMSAT instead; selection includes Multiple Mini Interviews. Applicants must be 18 or over at course start. Graduate-entry and internal transfer routes exist (Plymouth Biomedical Science or Medical Sciences students, and medicine graduates).

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,790 a year (2026/27). Full-time Source

International applicants: GBP 41,920 a year (2026/27). Full-time Source

Duration: 5 years

Health Sciences