BDT Dental Therapy (B760)
2026 entry | view 2025 entry
Course summary
Bristol Dental School has been a successful training provider for Dental Hygienists and Therapists for many years, attracting significant interest from applicants wishing to train in state-of-the-art clinical facilities, with a strong focus on integrated team training. To further strengthen the integration between Dentistry and Dental Therapy, the BSc Dental Hygiene and Therapy recently underwent a review, and the newly named Bachelor in Dental Therapy (BDT) will commence in September 2025. The course content, delivery and entry requirements have not changed significantly and students will cover the scope of practice of both Dental Hygienist and Dental Therapist. However, the course is now more aligned with the Bachelor Dental Surgery (BDS) in terms of structure and assessment strategy. The three-year full-time degree comprises integrated and compulsory units of academic teaching, clinical skills and practice with the completion of a dissertation in the Final year.
Based at the new Dental School in the city centre close to Bristol Temple Meads station, you will have access to cutting-edge technology working alongside experienced dental professionals in a world-class purpose-built facility. Ranked as the top Dental School in England (Complete University Guide 2025) our teaching delivers the latest developments in dental education and patient care.
The BDT equips you with the knowledge, skills and experience to practice safely within the scope of practice of a Dental Therapist as specified by the General Dental Council. With opportunities for community engagement, together with clinical rotations in Consultant led Oral Medicine and Orthodontic clinics you'll graduate from the University of Bristol as a competent and confident Dental Therapist.
You will be eligible to register as a Dental Therapist and Dental Hygienist upon successful completion of the BDT.
Course structure
In year one, you will learn the fundamentals of biomedical sciences, tailored to Dental Therapy practice. The course combines asynchronous material with in-person lectures, seminars and practical classes. From Term 2 you will begin supervised patient care, including pain and anxiety control. Educational principles in Oral Health Promotion focusing on health concepts, behaviours and sociological influences are introduced.
You will focus on patient care in year two, enhancing your periodontal clinical skills, covering advanced treatment modalities and managing refractory cases. You will complete operative skills in restorative dentistry, for adults and children. Dental radiology is introduced, and you'll start to deliver restorative patient care across various clinical settings broadening your understanding of treatments for paediatric and adult patients.
In year three, we focus on holistic patient care together with fulfilling the clinical requirements needed for graduation. You will complete a dissertation, and following completion of your final year assessments apply for registration with the General Dental Council.
Each year includes four themes:
- Foundations for Practice: Core knowledge for safe and effective patient care.
- Clinical Skills: Hands-on learning using manikin heads in the clinical skills suite.
- Clinical Practice: Applying knowledge and skills in patient care at the Dental School clinics.
- Personal and Professional Development: Becoming a well-rounded dental professional, understanding legal and ethical guidelines, and developing communication and leadership skills.
Entry requirements
We accept a wide variety of qualifications and welcome applications from students of all backgrounds. Below is a guide to the typical offers for this course.
Find out more about BTEC entry requirements
Find out if you are eligible for a contextual offer
More about Access to HE entry requirements
Selection process
- Regulations and codes of conduct we abide by to create a positive environment for learning and achievement are found in the University admissions policies and procedures.
- If applying with extenuating circumstances please see our policy.
- Full information about our selection processes for Dental Therapy can be found in the Admissions Statement:
Admissions statement - The admissions statement above relates to 2025 entry. The statement for 2026 entry will be available in summer 2025.