Program Overview

The University of Birmingham Dental Hygiene and Therapy course is links underpinning theory with practical clinical experience at all levels, making it a fully integrated course.

Based in Birmingham Dental Hospital and School of Dentistry, which opened in 2016, you will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and innovative teaching and learning methods. You will train and work alongside practicing clinicians and other members of the dental team on a daily basis. An important component in fostering the team approach to dentistry.

Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists work closely with other members of the Dental team, carrying out preventive and periodontal treatments for both adults and children. They undertake a variety of treatments on a wide range of patients including fillings, radiographs and impressions, Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists are also able to extract deciduous teeth, undertake pulpotomies and place preformed crowns on children’s teeth.

From the outset you will be encouraged and supported to become an independent and self-motivated learner. The BSc Dental Hygiene and Therapy course curriculum empowers you to develop lifelong skills in self-development and patient management. It also encourages precision, hand/eye coordination, communication skills and an empathic approach to patient care. These are all essential qualities when fulfilling the role of a Dental Hygienist or Therapist.

Employability

On qualification you will be eligible to apply for entry to the General Dental Council's register for Dental Care Professionals. Our Dental and Hygiene Therapy graduates work in general dental practice, salaried dental practice and in hospitals, where they work closely with other members of the Dental team. There are good opportunities for full-time, part-time and flexible working hours. A post-qualification vocational training scheme is also available in the West Midlands for selected applicants.

Our unique careers guidance service, Careers Network, is tailored to your academic subject area, offering a specialised team (in each of the five academic colleges) who can give you expert advice. Our team source exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CV’s and job applications will help give you the edge. In addition, our employer-endorsed award-winning Personal Skills Award (PSA) recognises your extra-curricular activities, and provides an accredited employability programme designed to improve your career prospects.