Doctor of Clinical Dentistry

Postgraduate | 2026

Mode

On campus

Start date

February

Campus

Adelaide City Campus

Duration

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

Program code

DCLID

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$78,100

Non-tuition fees

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 7 IELTS Reading 7 IELTS Listening 7 IELTS Speaking 7 IELTS Writing 7 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115785F

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfil any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed Bachelor of Dental Surgery or equivalent or higher AND at least two years of general practice, plus:

Applicants must have:

an Honours (research training) degree; OR
Successful completion of the Primary Examinations of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons; OR
Successful completion of the Primary Examinations of the Royal College of Dental Surgeons (UK).

All applicants must:

Complete application form;
Provide a short description of research interests and aptitudes;
Provide evidence of professional qualifications;
Provide details of employment history;
Provide 2 professional referees;
Provide a full CV including work history and publications.

Students applying for the following specialisations must complete an interview: Periodontics, Endodontics, Special Needs and Prosthodontic.

Students applying for the specialisation in Orthodontics must complete a Multiple Mini Interview (MMI, in person) and manual dexterity assessments.

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
IELTS Reading 7
IELTS Listening 7
IELTS Speaking 7
IELTS Writing 7

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

Note:

Additional Enrolment Information – FAQs | Adelaide University

Why Doctor of Clinical Dentistry?

The Doctor of Clinical Dentistry program at Adelaide University provides specialist training for general dentists who want to undertake postgraduate training in specific disciplines of dentistry.

Elevate your skills and take your dental expertise to the next level. Study with the pinnacle of dental education at Adelaide University and make significant contributions to oral health that support optimal general health outcomes.

This program is accredited by the Australian Dental Council and graduates can register as a dental specialist in their selected discipline with the Dental Board of Australia.

Graduate ready to enhance lives on your chosen dentistry path. Treat patients with special needs, specialise in the interior of teeth or promote healthy gums to prevent disease. Get ready to extend your skills and change the way our community values oral hygiene and health.

Overview

The Doctor of Clinical Dentistry is a combined clinical training and research program. In three years of full-time study, you’ll gain expert clinical and research skills in your specific specialist discipline.

You'll choose from the following five areas of specialisation:

Endodontics
Orthodontics
Periodontics
Prosthodontics
Special Needs Dentistry.

Experience cutting-edge dental technologies in the Adelaide Dental Hospital while also completing clinical placements at public healthcare facilities. Cultivate academic research skills through the presentation of a research dissertation and foster a deep understanding of the intricate relationships between oral health and wellbeing. Contribute significantly to the field of oral health with Adelaide University. Transform from a competent general practitioner into a specialised dental clinician.

What you'll learn

Adelaide University’s Doctor of Clinical Dentistry is a combined clinical training and research program. Based on your area of specialisation, you’ll study under specialist training by the School of Dentistry.

Beginning in first year, you’ll study a tailored blend of courses relevant to your interests.

Areas of specialisation include:

Endodontics

Endodontic specialists practise in the branch of dentistry that is concerned with the morphology and pathology of the pulpo-dentine complex and periradicular tissues. Its study and practice encompasses the basic clinical sciences including the biology of the normal pulp, and the aetiology, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and injuries to the pulp and associated periradicular tissues.

Orthodontics

This branch of dentistry is concerned with the supervision, guidance and correction of the growing and mature dentofacial structures. It includes the diagnosis, prevention, interception and treatment of all forms of malocclusion of the teeth and associated alterations in their surrounding structures.

Periodontics

Periodontists specialise in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions, that cause damage to the gums and jawbone.

Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics is the dental specialty dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of oral function, comfort, aesthetics and health of patients through the restoration or replacement of missing or deficient teeth and/or associated oral and maxillofacial structures. Specialist prosthodontists are trained to provide advanced restorative care using fixed, removable, and implant-based prostheses, applying evidence-based techniques and using biocompatible materials to achieve predictable, high-quality outcomes for complex clinical needs.

Special Needs Dentistry

This branch of dentistry is concerned with the oral health care of people with an intellectual disability, medical, physical or psychiatric conditions that require special methods or techniques to prevent or treat oral health problems or where such conditions necessitate special dental treatment plans.

Our program combines intensive clinical training with advanced theoretical knowledge and research.

All students complete core courses to fulfil a research dissertation during their specialisation and the following two research courses:

Research Methods, Experimental Design & Ethics, and
Doctor of Clinical Dentistry Research.

Assessment for this degree will include engaging in evidence-based research and conducting a research project. You will continue your research activity throughout the duration of your studies. Assessments will include oral presentations of your findings, and the submission of a dissertation. In your specialisation, you’ll develop academic literacy and presentation skills through specialist clinical courses.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

12 units for all Core courses, and
132 units for Discipline courses

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Research Methods, Experimental Design & Ethics	Course code DENT5004	Units 6
	Course name Doctor of Clinical Dentistry Research A	Course code DENT5005	Units 6

Complete 132 units comprising:

One of the following:
132 units for all Endodontics, or
132 units for all Orthodontics, or
132 units for all Periodontics, or
132 units for all Prosthodontics, or
132 units for all Special Needs Dentistry

	Course code	Units
Course name Specialist Clinical Endodontics I Part 1	Course code DENT5017	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Endodontics I Part 2	Course code DENT5018	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Endodontics II Part 1	Course code DENT6000	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Endodontics II Part 2	Course code DENT6001	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Endodontics III Part 1	Course code DENT6002	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Endodontics III Part 2	Course code DENT6003	Units 24

	Course code	Units
Course name Specialist Clinical Orthodontics I Part 1	Course code DENT5019	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Orthodontics I Part 2	Course code DENT5020	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Orthodontics II Part 1	Course code DENT6004	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Orthodontics II Part 2	Course code DENT6005	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Orthodontics III Part 1	Course code DENT6006	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Orthodontics III Part 2	Course code DENT6007	Units 24

	Course code	Units
Course name Specialist Clinical Periodontics I Part 1	Course code DENT5021	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Periodontics I Part 2	Course code DENT5022	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Periodontics II Part 1	Course code DENT6008	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Periodontics II Part 2	Course code DENT6009	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Periodontics III Part 1	Course code DENT6010	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Periodontics III Part 2	Course code DENT6011	Units 24

	Course code	Units
Course name Specialist Clinical Prosthodontics I Part 1	Course code DENT5023	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Prosthodontics I Part 2	Course code DENT5024	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Prosthodontics II Part 1	Course code DENT6012	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Prosthodontics II Part 2	Course code DENT6013	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Prosthodontics III Part 1	Course code DENT6014	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Prosthodontics III Part 2	Course code DENT6015	Units 24

	Course code	Units
Course name Specialist Clinical Special Needs Dentistry I Part 1	Course code DENT5025	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Special Needs Dentistry I Part 2	Course code DENT5026	Units 18
Course name Specialist Clinical Special Needs Dentistry II Pt 1	Course code DENT6016	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Special Needs Dentistry II Part 2	Course code DENT6017	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Special Needs Dentistry III Part 1	Course code DENT6018	Units 24
Course name Specialist Clinical Special Needs Dentistry III Part 2	Course code DENT6019	Units 24

Career outcomes

Redefine your capabilities and make an impact in the field of dentistry with a Doctor of Clinical Dentistry. On successful completion, graduates are eligible for specialty registration in Australia through the Dental Board of Australia.

Depending on your specialisation, careers can include:

Orthodontist
Periodontist
Prosthodontist
Endodontist
Special Needs Dentist.

Industry trends

The Australian dental industry is embracing digital technologies to improve efficiency, patient care and practice management. The industry is focusing on enhancing patient experiences and accessibility of dental services with intraoral scanners and 3D printing. As patients return to clinics in-person, the Australian digital dentistry market is expected to double by 2027 (NBN, 2021). Revolutionise the use of new digital smile designs to improve patient comfort and minimise chair time.

Accreditation

This program is accredited by the Australian Dental Council (ADC). Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a Specialist Dentist with the Dental Board of Australia (DBA).

Ready 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

Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.

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.

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

The closing date for applying to all Doctor of Clinical Dentistry programs commencing in February, 2027 is April 30th, 2026.

In addition to submitting your application through the International Application system, please also start your 2027 application via the portal .

Find an education agent in your country

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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: