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College of Medicine and Dentistry

The future of
postgraduate education

MSc in Advanced General Dental Practice (Part Time)

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).

Starts
January 2027
Venue
College of Medicine & Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Format
Part-time (Hybrid) ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

18 Months

Application Due
December 2026
Tuition fee
£18,500⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Year 1: £12,500
Year 2: £6,000
Dates
January 2027
Format
Part-time (Hybrid) ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

18 Months

Status
Live
Venue
College of Medicine & Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Application Due
December 2026
Tuition fee
£18,500⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Year 1: £12,500
Year 2: £6,000

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.

Who is this programme for?

This programme is designed for dentists who are seeking to transition into UK dental practice, as well as those wishing to further develop their knowledge, clinical understanding and practical skills in general dentistry.

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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

Part-time 18 Months

Language

English

Venue
College of Medicine and Dentistry, Birmingham Campus
Delivery
A hybrid programme combining two intensive blocks of face-to-face, hands-on practical training at the College of Medicine and Dentistry in Birmingham with online teaching throughout the remainder of the programme
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
Do I need to attend campus?

Yes. You will need to attend two intensive teaching blocks to complete the practical components of the programme. Each block will normally last between 4 and 7 days. The remainder of the teaching is delivered online.

Do I need to attend live teaching?

The programme includes pre-recorded lectures and online learning resources that you can access in your own time. These are supplemented by live online seminars, giving you the opportunity to interact with tutors, discuss key topics and ask questions.

Do I need a Student visa and CAS?

No. A Student visa and CAS are not required for this programme. You will normally need to apply for the appropriate visitor visa to attend the on-campus teaching blocks. It is your responsibility to check the relevant visa requirements and confirm your eligibility before travelling to the UK.