University of Otago Dentistry Admission 2019 – 2020
Why study Dentistry?
Dentistry is a challenging profession that combines a high degree of manual dexterity and precision with a thorough understanding of craniofacial biology and pathology, and excellent communication skills. The dentist can diagnose and carry out treatment planned to each patient’s oral needs. If you are considering a career as a dentist, you should be prepared for lifelong learning to maintain your practicing standards. As a graduate there are opportunities for full-time or part-time work in New Zealand or overseas (registration limitation may apply when practicing overseas), and opportunities include private general or specialist practice, academic careers, or hospital-based practice.
Dentistry is about much more than teeth: it is the art and science of the maintenance of all aspects of oral health. It is about all the oral, upper jaw, and facial tissues, and the recognition that good oral health is important for good general health.
Admission to Dentistry
Background required
Most Dentistry students gain entry after completing the competitive Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) programme at the University of Otago. HSFY must be your first year of university study.
There are no subject requirements for entry into the HSFY programme, but we strongly recommend you take Chemistry, Physics, and Biology at Year 13.
If you are considering tertiary study before enrolling, you are strongly advised to contact the Health Sciences Admissions Office beforehand.
Health Sciences First Year
Health Sciences Admissions Office
Admission to the programme
Admission to Dentistry is competitive. The majority of places are offered to students who have completed the HSFY programme at the University of Otago.
Selection into Dentistry from HSFY is based on:
- Your grades in HSFY, and
- Your results in the Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT), and
- A structured interview
High grades are required and no compulsory paper can be less than a B-. The UMAT and the interview assess non-academic attributes.
UMAT information (Australian Council for Educational Research)
Applications are also considered in the Graduate Category and the Alternative Category. In all cases, you must have completed the HSFY papers or approved alternatives with the required grades, you must have completed the UMAT, and you must be available for interview.
A small number of places are available for international students who return to their home country after graduating.
Applicants who are of Māori or Pacific Island descent, or who have had a rural New Zealand upbringing and/or education, may request this be taken into account as part of their application.
How do I apply for admission to Dentistry?
The Division of Health Sciences website has comprehensive application information for admission into Dentistry.
International applications
The University of Otago International Office has information for prospective international students (persons who are not New Zealand or Australian citizens or permanent residents).
University of Otago Dentistry Entry Requirements
University of Otago Dentistry Application Process 2019 – 2020
University of Otago Dentistry Programme Content
University of Otago Dentistry Careers
Regulations
Regulations for the Degree of Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)
Disclaimer
The University of Otago makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided on its web pages. However the matters covered, including the availability and structure of courses, are subject to regular review and no warranty or representation can be provided regarding the accuracy of such information, and the University does not accept liability for any losses or damage arising directly or indirectly from reliance on the information.
While the University of Otago takes all due care in implementing the regulations, policies, and procedures that relate to the admissions process, it reserves the right to correct any administrative errors that may occur.
