Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Dental Therapy and Hygiene

This innovative patient-centered programme offers a supportive research-rich environment. Train with dental and nursing students in state-of-the-art facilities, gaining core skills, hands-on experience and strong communication skills for your future.

Ranked #1 best UK university for dentistry

Our student experience, feedback and career outcomes make Plymouth number 1 in the UK in the Guardian's league table of the best universities for dentistry in 2025.

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 Plymouth, 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.
BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy and Hygiene
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About

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.

Joseph Burchell, Dental Therapy and Hygiene graduate  

Joseph Burchell, Dental Therapy and Hygiene Graduate

This course is for you if...

you're passionate about providing patient-centred dental care
Three heads with hands holding them depicting community
you seek early clinical exposure to develop practical skills
Dentist chair
you're eager to engage with diverse communities to enhance oral health
Toothbrush
you aspire to become a competent and caring dental therapist or hygienist, ready to make a difference
Door opening to healthcare setting

Details

Year 1

In your first year, you'll explore the scientific basis of normal structure, function and behaviour, focusing on dental health, prevention of dental disease and the underlying principles of personal and professional development. You'll be introduced to the clinic and the Simulated Dental Learning Environment (SDLE) at an early stage, and gain insight into the importance of team working in dentistry as you integrate with other members of the team and work in small study groups.
Simulated Dental Learning Environment (SDLE)

Core modules

BDT411
Integrated Dental Science 1 (BDT) 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.

BDT412
Clinical Dental Practice 1 (BDT) 40 credits

This module provides DTH students with an introduction to clinical dentistry and the management of medical emergencies. It provides a gateway check point to ensure students are ready to commence providing safe dental care for patients.

BDT414
Inter-Professional Engagement 1 (BDT) 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.

HIPL400
Interprofessional Learning 1

BDT415
Professional Development and Lifelong Learning 1 (BDT)

This module introduces students to reflective adult learning and assists with the development of professional behaviour and attitudes appropriate to training in dental therapy. Every term the student will meet their Academic Tutor and reflect and review on their performance in all aspects of professionalism within the BSc DTH programmes by presentation of written critical reflections and discussion.

Year 2

In your second year, you'll build on the foundations you've put in place so far – you'll consider common dental problems, as well as disease mechanisms, in much greater depth. You'll develop your clinical skills further and apply what you have learnt to the realities of dental practice.
BSc Dental Therapy and Hygiene - Year Two

Core modules

BDT521
Applied Dental Therapy Knowledge 1 20 credits

This module enables students to achieve the level of knowledge of clinical and communication skills, professionalism and management and leadership skills required of a graduate entering primary care as a new Dental Therapy graduate. Topic areas include basic sciences as applied to dentistry, and knowledge of the comprehensive delivery of clinical dentistry including: restorative dentistry for children and adults; dental radiology; oral surgery; pharmacology and therapeutics; oral medicine; oral pathology; medicine and surgery applied to dentistry; preventive dentistry; dental public health; evidence-based dentistry; health & safety; communication skills; professionalism; law & ethics; and management & leadership.

BDT525
Dental Therapy Inter-Professional Engagement 2 20 credits

In year two of the programme, students are able to build on their learning from the year one inter-professional engagement project by focusing on a single community-based organisation within Devon and Cornwall. Students in small groups visit organisations to develop an understanding of how these organisations support particular community groups and/or individuals to adopt positive healthy lifestyles and how they help their clients/service users to overcome the social and organisational barriers that prevent them from achieving this.

HIPL500
Interprofessional Learning 2

BDT526
Developing Clinical Practice

This module is developing the students' essential range of basic dental skills needed for the safe practice of primary dental care by Dental Therapists and Hygienists. It provides training and assessment of dental skills competency in the simulated environment, accompanied by development of clinical skills to support of the students' first experiences of caring for patients.

BDT527
Dental Therapy Professional Development and Lifelong Learning 2

This module supports students to further develop reflective adult learning skills and self-awareness 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 BSc DTH programme.

Final year

Your final year is devoted to furthering your clinical experience and is the final preparation for dental practice. You'll become much more confident with clinical situations, healthcare teams and the principles of practice. You’ll plan multidisciplinary case presentations, designed to demonstrate that you’re capable and confident in the planning and delivery of all procedures necessary to provide optimal oral healthcare for patients.
Children's dental clinics

Core modules

BDT631
Applied Dental Therapy Knowledge 2 20 credits

This module enables students to achieve the level of knowledge of clinical and communication skills, professionalism and management and leadership skills required of a graduate entering primary care as a new Dental Therapy graduate. Topic areas include basic sciences as applied to dentistry, and knowledge of the comprehensive delivery of clinical dentistry including: restorative dentistry for children and adults; dental radiology; oral surgery; pharmacology and therapeutics; oral medicine; oral pathology; medicine and surgery applied to dentistry; preventive dentistry; dental public health; evidence-based dentistry; health & safety; communication skills; professionalism; law & ethics; and management & leadership.

BDT632
Proficient Clinical Practice 60 credits

This module provides students with continuing clinical experience treating patients with more complex needs, working closely with dental students and dental nurses in the dental team.

BDT634
Inter-Professional Engagement: Quality Improvement 20 credits

This module develops core academic skills, introduced earlier in the programme such as engaging critically with evidence, writing scientifically, and using appropriate sources of information. These skills are applied through a quality improvement project, in which students review the quality of clinical practice through the use of a clinical audit.

HIPL600
Interprofessional Learning 3

BDT635
Dental Therapy Professional Development and Lifelong Learning 3

This module supports students to further develop reflective adult learning skills, self-awareness, evidence based practice skills 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 BSc DTH programme.

 
 
 

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.

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:

BSc Hons Dental Therapy Hygiene Programme Specification 2024 25 7242

Experience

Studying at Plymouth is great because the Dental Therapy and Hygiene course and Dentistry course are closely integrated. This team working approach to learning is really useful as working as part of a team is an essential part of the dental profession.

Whilst in her first year, Ruby told us what inspired her to join the Dental Therapy and Hygiene course and what it's like studying at Plymouth.
 
 
 

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.
Derriford Dental Education Facility
 
 
 

Community engagement

Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise CIC - students giving a talk
Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise CIC
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.
Dental Outreach Team - two student dentists smiling with a teddy bear in a dental mask
Dental Outreach Team
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.
Dental dentistry students practising 
Award-winning contribution to dental training and community care
Our work to combine first-rate dental training with outstanding community care was rewarded at the Times Higher Education Awards 2023.
 
 
 

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.
Dr Zoe Brookes Associate Professor of Dental Education and Research


Associate Professor of Dental Education and Research

Lorna Burns Associate Head of Postgraduate Taught


Associate Head of Postgraduate Taught

Professor Sally Hanks Professor of Primary Care Dentistry


Professor of Primary Care Dentistry

Show all
 
 
 

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.
Join DentSoc
Dental students on a project with Plymouth Community Homes residents on a project on diet with a 'Mad Hatter's Tea Party'
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth'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

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Group of female members of cheerleading society
Get involved with one of our many student groups
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

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

Liz Eilertsen performing dentistry on a patient
 
 
Studying dental therapy and hygiene at the University of Plymouth 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.
  • x

    85% of dental therapy and hygiene graduates are in highly skilled work or further study

  • `

    80% of graduates find their current work meaningful

*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
N/A per credits
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in 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.
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 .
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£25,000 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 .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, 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 training grant 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.
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
UCAS points

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:

A levels
The typical offer is ABB at GCE A Level, which must include Biology.
General studies at GCE A or AS level is not included in any offer.
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.

Dental Nursing Qualifications
National Certificate or Diploma in Dental Nursing, plus 2 A Levels at grade BB, must include Biology.
If you are unsure whether your qualification is suitable, please contact meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
City & Guilds Extended Diploma in Dental Nursing
Grade Distinction + 2 A levels at grade AB (to include Biology and a second science).

BTEC RQF National Extended Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
DDD in a predominantly science subject area. As desirable, an A-level in Biology is also strongly advised alongside this qualification at grade B.
BTEC National Diploma
DD in addition to an A-Level in Biology at grade B is mandatory.

Access to HE Diploma
Pass an Access course in a predominantly Science subject. 60 credits overall to include 45 level 3 credits, of which 15 level 3 credits must be in Biology or Human Biology. You must achieve Merit or Distinction in 33 level 3 credits, including the 15 credits in Biology or Human Biology. As desirable, an A-level in Biology is also strongly advised alongside this qualification at grade B.

Other accepted qualifications
For information regarding all other accepted qualifications, including the International Baccalaureate, Scottish Advanced Highers and Irish Leaving Certificate, please contact the Admissions Team at meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Selection and admissions process
None of the typical offers listed above 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.
Applications should be made through UCAS 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 University of Plymouth 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.
Re-sit applicants
Re-sit applicants are considered for this course, with the following requirements:
  • If you are applying with predicted grades, a minimum of BBC must be achieved on first sitting of A Level
  • Where BBC is not achieved on first sitting, applicants must re-sit the required qualifications and apply once suitable grades have been achieved
  • A Level or accepted equivalent qualifications must be completed in no more than 3 years of study, unless otherwise advised
  • A suitable qualification profile must be achieved on first re-sit attempt
  • We do not have an AS Level resit policy, however, full A Levels must be completed within the above timeframe.
    For re-sit criteria of other qualifications, please contact the Admissions Team at meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
    Students must be 18 years old or over at the start date of this programme.
 
 
 

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
B750
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(with placements)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
  • Apply at UCAS.com

    • Other routes into this course

    The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

    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.

     

    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 meddent-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 meddent-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
    If English is your first language, we will accept your home country’s equivalent providing it is at Level C1 or above according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).
    Students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency in the English language by achieving one of the following qualifications:
    • IELTS band 7.5 or above with at least 7.0 in each of the Speaking and Listening sections (taken within 12 months of entry). The University will no longer accept the IELTS indicator (online test). All applicants will have to take the IELTS test at an approved centre.
    • lGCSE or GCSE English Language (as a first language) grade A / 7. A supplementary statement confirming inclusion of the Speaking and Listening components will be required for IGCSE 0500 / 0990.
    • IB score of 6 at the ordinary level in English Language (as a first language).
    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.
    International student advice also provide support and can assist you with any non-academic issues affecting international students. There are also student welfare support and counselling services, wardens and student health centres on hand if you need them.
    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 UK Border Agency's website.
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
  • Apply at UCAS.com
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    B750
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    3 years
    (with placements)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth

    Other routes to this course

    If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) .
     
     
     

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    This course is approved by the General Dental Council.
    The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.