| UCAS course code | A205 |
| Institution code | P60 |
| Duration | 6 years (with placements) |
| Course type | Full-time |
| Study location | Plymouth |
An alternative entry route into dentistry for able students whose education has been impacted by adversity. Using an Enquiry Based Learning (EBL) approach, this course begins the journey towards the development of the academic, personal and professional skills needed for a career in dentistry. It aims to aid the transition to university through building a strong sense of belonging within the dental student community, as well as introducing you to our learning, teaching and assessment methods.
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% Practicals
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% Practicals
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.
50% Coursework
50% 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% Practicals
50% Examinations
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
BDS411
Integrated Dental Science 1 (BDS)
40 credits
This module introduces basic and clinical sciences and the principles of human disease prevention which underpin dental skills, the safe use of ionising radiation together with the properties and usage of biomaterials in dentistry.
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.
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.
HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1
Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:
| 2024-2025 | 2025-2026 * | |
|---|---|---|
| Home | £9,250 | £9,535 |
| International | £25,000 | £25,000 |
| Part time (Home) | £770 | £795 |
*UK Government announcement on tuition fees
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.
Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
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Starting patient care in the first year really helped me build confidence and connect the theory to real cases. It’s been so rewarding to see my skills grow, from learning simple fillings to doing a root canal treatment on a patient.
Before receiving an offer to study you will be invited to attend an interview. This attempts to find out whether you have the personal attributes required to become a dentist of tomorrow.
We have exceptional facilities across five locations: Portland Square, Devonport and Derriford in Plymouth, and in Exeter and Truro.
Learn about the roles and research interests of our school staff
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’s 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.
After graduating in BDS Dental Surgery and MSc Oral Surgery, Liz Eilertsen set up a thriving practice in a part of the UK deprived of dental care
Dr Zoë Brookes graduated in BDS Dental Surgery and returned to the University after having children, this time to teach
Sneha Lopes explains her alternative route to studying dentistry after transferring from BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science and entering the perfect profession for her
Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise (PDSE) is a Community Interest Company (CIC). As such, 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 well being
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.
