College of Medicine and Dentistry

The future of
postgraduate education

MSc in Advanced General Dental Practice

This programme aims to enhance the capability of dentist working in the United Kingdom by helping them to develop both their non-clinical and clinical skills. It also helps them by providing a comprehensive understanding of the unique principles, systems and culture that govern the National Health Service of the UK.

Starts
May 2025 and September 2025
Venue
College of Medicine & Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Format
Full-time, Face to face
Application Due
June 2025
Tuition fee
£23,950
Dates
May 2025 and September 2025
Format
Full-time, Face to face
Status
Live
Venue
College of Medicine & Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Application Due
June 2025
Tuition fee
£23,950

Overview

The demands and expectations of patients seen in general dental practice in the UK is demonstrated by the rise in patient complaints.  The competency-based framework used for undergraduate dental training provides limited exposure to the wider competencies needed to manage the patients of today and dentists need both exemplary clinical skills and non-clinical skills within their chosen area of work to manage the patients of today.

This programme builds on the teaching provided in undergraduate training, empowering dentists with the required skill sets and ability to work confidently in the United Kingdom healthcare system.  The programme is delivered over 7 modules and covers a range of skill sets through scenarios, role play and practical simulated training.   The subjects covered will also help clinicians from outside the UK who are preparing for the Overseas Registration Examination (ORE).

The programme is delivered by experienced dentists and trainers in the field with the emphasis throughout the course being on self-directed personal development leading to well-rounded professionals equipped to handle the challenges of todays patient demands.

Expand All
Key Programme Features
  1. Provides teaching on basic sciences and biomaterials used to underpin the delivery of health care.
  2. Provide enhanced skills in performing examinations, making diagnoses and providing treatment in a holistic manner, including work with multidisciplinary teams.
  3. Problem based learning approach to improve confidence and communication
  4. The learning is underpinned by core principles of self-empowerment, awareness and reflective practice, developing Dentists’ non-technical skills while underpinning all aspects of teamworking and self-development.
  5. Highlights the principles and expectations of working in the NHS
  6. Provides the essential knowledge and understanding of the requirements for the Overseas Registration Examination for those aiming to register with the General Dental Council in the UK.
  7. Successful completion leads to a Masters qualification (Level 7) validated by Ulster University
Programme Format

Duration

Full time One Year

Language

English

Venue
College of Medicine and Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Deliver
Theoretical teaching combined with hands-on training delivered face to face across 7 modules
The COMD Experience

The state of the art and modern facilities with well-equipped simulation suites and classrooms with workspaces offer our learners a unique experience with access to knowledgeable support teams with experienced teachers driving their learning

Faculty

Course Lead

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Tim O’Brien

Tim is the Dean and an Associate Professor at The College of Medicine and Dentistry, Ulster University. He is also the current programme lead for the MSc in Restorative Dentistry and the MSc in Advanced General Dental Practice. He has extensive experience of designing and running successful postgraduate courses but maintains his clinical work as an NHS Consultant while continuing to be involved in the training of specialists/Consultants at a number of levels, including the development of National examinations. He is the current Convenor of Dental Examinations for the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh and prior to this he chaired the Specialty Advisory Board in Restorative dentistry, running the M Endo, M Perio and M Pros examinations. He is an External Examiner to a number of other Universities and acts for the GDC in this role for the Overseas Registration Examination. He has published in a number of areas related to Restorative Dentistry but also on subjects such as patient safety and the avoidance of harm to patients.

Course Faculty

Eligibility Requirements
  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or equivalent from a recognised institution
  • Registration with a recognised dental regulatory body with good standing e.g., GDC in the UK or equivalent international authority
  • Evidence of English language proficiency (GCSE grade C or equivalent). For international students an equivalent to IELTS 6 (with no component below 5.5) or other equivalent English language tests
  • Two satisfactory references, one of which must be an academic reference.

Additional Requirements:

  • Applicants from countries subject to UK government financial sanctions will undergo an additional financial check to ensure that the funds have not come from or earned in countries subject to sanctions. Applicants not meeting this financial check will not be offered a place on the programme.
  • International students will be required to fulfill all conditions of a student visa as a part of their admission process
FAQ
Will there be additional checks?

Yes, applicants from countries subject to UK government financial sanctions will undergo an additional financial check to ensure that the funds have not come from or earned in countries subject to these sanctions.

What financial evidence is needed?

The financial evidence accepted will be the same as that accepted by the UKVI for a Student Visa application.