Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Dental Surgery

Start date

February

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

5 year(s) full-time only (no part time option)

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BDENT

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$99,100

Prerequisite

Two Science subjects from the following: any one of SACE Stage 2 Chemistry, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, or Physics (or equivalent); PLUS any one of SACE Stage 2 Biology, Earth and Environmental Science, Chemistry, or Physics (or equivalent).

Assumed knowledge

High proficiency in written and spoken English.

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 7.0 IELTS Reading 7.0 IELTS Listening 7.0 IELTS Speaking 7.0 IELTS Writing 7.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115693K

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

Entry is competitive. Applicants will be selected for interview on the basis of UCAT ANZ results. Eligible applicants will be ranked on a combination of UCAT ANZ results (20%), interview results (40%) and academic score results (40%)

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate that they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission.

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) with an adjusted ATAR equivalent selection rank of 95.00 or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate diploma (or higher AQF level qualification) with an overall Grade Point Average of 5.0 or above from a recognised higher education institution.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 7.0
IELTS Reading 7.0
IELTS Listening 7.0
IELTS Speaking 7.0
IELTS Writing 7.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia – ATAR	95
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.99
China – Gaokao	85%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	23
India – CBSE and CISCE	95
India – State Board Examinations	99
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	A
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	3.55
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	8
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	3.55
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	13
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	14
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	9.00

Why Bachelor of Dental Surgery?

Keep your community smiling. Become a dentist and play a part in improving oral health in communities. Choose a profession where you’ll become a lifelong learner who cares about your patients and your work.

Dentistry is a science and an art. It’s flexible, rewarding and it changes lives. Get ready to enhance people’s confidence and quality of life by keeping their teeth and gums healthy.

Overview

The Bachelor of Dental Surgery emphasises a holistic and preventive-based approach to oral health care. Integrate knowledge and understanding of relevant biological and medical sciences in managing patients.

You’ll also develop high levels of professionalism, including the ability to effectively monitor your performance.

Throughout your studies you’ll get the chance to explore a dynamic curriculum which uses an integrated learning approach. You'll learn relevant scientific information as you develop your professional and clinical skills.

From first year, you’ll undertake compulsory clinical placements in a range of clinic settings. These may include hospital-based, community, rural and interstate locations.

Key features

Explore the full range of dental therapies, from complex restorative to preventative-based treatments.
Build clinical experience starting from your first year.
Learn in state-of-the-art facilities including Adelaide Dental Hospital.
Practise using equipment in our Dental Simulation Clinic and tackle real-life case scenarios.
Benefit from extensive placements across metropolitan and rural settings.
Improve lives through community outreach programs.

What you'll learn

The Bachelor of Dental Surgery provides clinical experiences from day one, giving you the chance to develop your professional and practical skills. With our person-centred focus, you will be introduced to the practice of dentistry and develop an understanding of the normal structure and function of a healthy body. This includes the oral cavity, evidence-based maintenance of people’s health and dentistry as a career. Through integrated learning activities, you’ll develop a knowledge of evidence-based care. You’ll work in a collaborative environment to learn critical self-evaluation and plan strategies for improvement.

In your second year, you’ll build on your knowledge while continuing a focus on patient care. You’ll develop an understanding of the changes that occur in the oral cavity, when an imbalance of the oral ecosystem develops, and practise placing emphasis on restoring a healthy balance. You’ll also continue to study the scientific basis of dentistry and develop systematic scientific skills to examine, assess risk and manage healthy teeth and gums.

In your third and fourth year, you’ll extend your studies to understand dental disorders and the human diseases affecting oral health and dental practice. Develop clinical skills in comprehensive treatment planning through the supervised care in both general dental practice and dental specialities.

In your final year, you’ll integrate everything you’ve learnt and consolidate your clinical skills in a range of settings. You’ll be ready to step into your role as a dental professional and manage an increasingly complex range of dental problems.

What courses you'll study

Complete 240 units comprising:

240 units for all Core courses

Complete 240 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Dental Science and Practice I Part 1	Course code DENT1000	Units 0
Course name Dental Science and Practice I Part 2	Course code DENT1001	Units 48
Course name Dental Science and Practice II Part 1	Course code DENT2000	Units 0
Course name Dental Science and Practice II Part 2	Course code DENT2001	Units 48
Course name Dental Science and Practice III Part 1	Course code DENT3000	Units 0
Course name Dental Science and Practice III Part 2	Course code DENT3001	Units 48
Course name Dental Science and Practice IV Part 1	Course code DENT4000	Units 0
Course name Dental Science and Practice IV Part 2	Course code DENT4001	Units 48
Course name Dental Science and Practice V Part 1	Course code DENT5000	Units 0
Course name Dental Science and Practice V Part 2	Course code DENT5001	Units 48

Career outcomes

As a qualified dentist, you’ll be ready for your dynamic career in the dental industry. Dental and oral health professionals are well paid and in demand, with job prospects expected to increase.

Your choices may include:

Private practice: once you are registered with the Dental Board of Australia you can enter private practice on your own, work as an associate with an established practitioner, or join a partnership.
Public sector: work as a dentist in government, and community or school-based dental clinics across Australia.

You may also consider a career as a researcher, making new discoveries to improve oral health care.

Industry trends

The dentistry profession is always in demand, with jobs in Australia expected to grow by 27.8% by 2026 (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021). There are also exciting technological advances on the industry's horizon, including the use of AI, augmented and virtual realities in treatment and care.

Accreditation

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

• Career advice and mentoring services

• Personal counselling

• LGBTQIA+ support

• Academic support

• Fees and finance help

• Security services

• Accommodation services

• Common rooms

• Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: