Program Overview

Introduction to the Dental Hygiene Program

The Dental Hygiene program at Cardiff University is a two-year, full-time course that leads to a Diploma in Higher Education (DipHE). The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and professional attitudes required to become a competent dental hygienist.

Why Study This Course

The program offers a unique opportunity for students to gain early clinical exposure in the University Dental Hospital, under the close supervision of experienced clinicians. Students will also have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a ｣2.2 million simulation suite, cutting-edge intra-oral scanners, and 3D printing technology.

Subject Area and Accreditation

The subject area of the program is Dentistry, and it is accredited by the General Dental Council (GDC).

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the program, students must meet the following entry requirements:

• A-levels: CC-CD, including grade C in Biology or Human Biology
• International Baccalaureate: 17 overall or 55 in 2 HL subjects, including grade 5 in Biology
• Baccalaureate Wales: From September 2023, the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (level 3) will replace the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (Welsh Baccalaureate)
• GCSE and other essential requirements: English language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent, and four other GCSEs at grade C/4, or equivalent qualifications
• Other qualifications from inside the UK: BTEC, T Level, and other qualifications will be considered on a case-by-case basis
• Qualifications from outside the UK: Please see the university's qualification equivalences guide

Interview or Selection Process

Applicants must meet the minimum requirements at Level 2 (typically GCSE) and Level 3 (typically A-level) to be eligible for consideration for an interview. The interview process uses the multiple mini interview (MMI) format, which assesses the applicant's ability to think on their feet, critically appraise information, and communicate ideas effectively.

Tuition Fees

A full NHS bursary, including tuition fees and a non-repayable bursary for living costs, is available to applicants from the UK. International students are not eligible for this course due to NHS placement requirements.

Course Structure

The program is divided into two years, with the following modules:

Year One

• Biomedical Sciences
• Human Diseases
• Oral Diseases and their Prevention
• Dental Radiography (Year 1)
• Introduction to Clinical Dentistry
• Clinical Practice

Year Two

• Dental Radiography and Radiology 2
• Patient Management
• Clinical Practice 2 (DipDH)
• Preparation for Practice
• Dental Public Health
• Oral Medicine and Oral Pathology

Learning and Assessment

Teaching on the program is integrated, with a variety of methods used to enrich the learning experience, including lectures, small-group seminars and tutorials, direct clinical teaching, and e-learning packages. Assessment tasks include written examinations and assignments, clinical case reports, practical skills tests, projects, portfolios, competency assessments, online assessments, oral presentations, and clinical examinations.

Careers and Placements

The program provides students with a wide range of career opportunities, including general dental practice, community dental practice, teaching hospitals, dental schools, and the armed forces. Students will also have access to clinical placements in Wales, where they will work under the guidance of experienced dental professionals.

Graduate Careers

Graduates of the program can pursue careers in:

• Specialist/General dental practice
• Community dental practice
• Medical research posts

Conclusion

The Dental Hygiene program at Cardiff University is a comprehensive and integrated course that provides students with the knowledge, skills, and professional attitudes required to become a competent dental hygienist. With its state-of-the-art facilities, experienced clinicians, and wide range of career opportunities, this program is an excellent choice for students looking to pursue a career in dental hygiene.