Doctorate (PhD)
The Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) at University of Melbourne is the first Australian professional-entry, master's-level dental degree. Based on advanced, evidenced-based clinical training, the degree leads to registration as a general dental practitioner with the Dental Practice Board in Australia and New Zealand, and creates a pathway to enter the Master of Philosophy, PhD or Doctor of Clinical Dentistry.
The DDS uses the latest scientific evidence in oral health to impart the expertise, skills and knowledge related to all areas of clinical dental practice. It includes the teaching of advanced treatment options such as dental implants, all-ceramic restorations and use of advanced materials.
The course is delivered by highly qualified academics, with research experience from leading universities around the world. The program emphasis is on pre-clinical practical classes and clinical patient treatments in all specialties of dentistry. All studies are conducted with the underpinning ethos of prevention of dental disease for which the Melbourne Dental School has a world-renowned reputation.
Located in Carlton, the Melbourne Dental School is an advanced learning environment at the forefront of oral health, state-of-the-art technologies and international collaborations, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
The DDS incorporates all aspects related to the provision of advanced general dental care to patients as well as teaches students to prepare, develop, execute and write for publication a small research project. It is a fixed, full-time course of 4 years' duration.
The course commences with the introduction of specialised oral health subjects to allow students to enter the clinic as quickly as possible to maximise the experience in all aspects and phases of clinical treatment.
In the final year, Comprehensive Dental Practice (a year-long subject of 40 weeks, comprised of general dental practice placements in urban community health centres (5 weeks), the University of Melbourne Dental Clinic (23 weeks), specialist practice/hospital clinics (5 weeks) and rural community health centres, including Aboriginal oral health (7 weeks)
As a Doctor of Dental Surgery graduate, you will be equipped to become an oral health leader of the future. Unmatched placement opportunities, lecturers and state-of-the-art equipment at the University of Melbourne's Carlton campus will enable you to pursue a career in an area of healthcare that is rewarding and vital.
This course will provide you with the minimal qualification and competencies required to register for practice as a registered dentist according to the Dental Practice Board.
The GEMSAS Admissions Guide for domestic students is available to Download
Download GEMSAS admissions guide
To Domestic students apply via GEMSAS. Applications for the 2022 intake of the Doctor of Dental Surgery will open on Saturday 1st May 2021 and close on Monday 31st May 2021.