Course Overview

About This Course

Learn to effectively assess the oral health and preventative care requirements of individuals and communities with a JCU Dentistry degree. Formulate, implement and evaluate diagnoses, management and referral plans, particularly within the unique and diverse context of the Tropics. Advance your skills through hands-on learning in JCU's on-site dental clinics and clinical simulation laboratory. Study the foundational theory of dental science and the promotion of oral healthcare in underserved communities. Train alongside experienced, supportive professionals and explore issues of concern, particularly relating to tropical, rural and indigenous practice. Develop the fundamental skills required to learn how to become a dentist in Queensland or in metropolitan and regional areas across Australia. Be equipped with practical work skills in JCU's world-class dental teaching complex, with a state-of-the-art clinical simulation laboratory. Apply your theoretical knowledge as you assess, diagnose and perform dental work on real patients. Expand your network and experience through extensive professional placements.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

English (Units 3/4, C), Mathematical Methods (Units 3/4, C), Chemistry (Units 3/4, C); or equivalent
Recommended Knowledge: Biology (Units 3/4, C)
English language requirements: Band 3b
If your native language is not English, you must meet the minimum English language requirements for this course
Special entry requirements apply
Applicants of non-English speaking backgrounds must meet the English language proficiency requirements of Band 3b – Schedule II of the JCU Admissions Policy
Applications for the 2027 intake open on 1 March 2026 and close on 30 June 2026
Before applying, ensure you have checked the Inherent Requirements and the placement requirement checklist

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

JCU Dental Surgery graduates are healthcare practitioners who are sought-after in a variety of healthcare settings. Graduates pursue careers as dentists in various areas including private practice, hospitals, community health services, The Australian Defence Force, education, or research. This course is accredited by the Australian Dental Council (ADC) and graduates can apply for membership of the Dental Board of Australia.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Australian Dental Council (ADC)

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

ADC

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units12 units

Health care in Australia

Communication skills for health professionals

Dental science

Clinical dentistry experience

Issues in rural and remote health care

Anatomy and physiology

Biological chemistry

Operative dentistry

Research for health professionals

Clinical practice issues

Lifespan development

Biological science

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours of clinical placement will I complete during the Bachelor of Dental Surgery?

During the Bachelor of Dental Surgery, you will be required to complete a minimum of 2,331 hours of work-integrated learning (WIL), including over 2,000 hours of supervised clinical placements in private practices as well as rural and remote clinics across northern Queensland.

Is the Bachelor of Dental Surgery accredited and will I be able to register as a dentist in Australia?

Yes, JCU's Bachelor of Dental Surgery is accredited by the Australian Dental Council (ADC), and graduates can apply for membership of the Dental Board of Australia. Graduates will also be ready to register with any dental board in Australia or New Zealand.

What practical facilities are available to dental students at JCU?

JCU students have access to a world-class dental teaching complex, which includes a state-of-the-art clinical simulation laboratory for practical experience and observation, as well as the university's public dental clinics where students apply their theoretical knowledge assessing, diagnosing and performing dental work on real patients.

Is there an Honours option available for the Bachelor of Dental Surgery?

Yes, the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (Honours) degree is available for high-achieving students. It consists of extra study and the development of a personal research project and thesis. An Honours degree is usually essential for entry to research higher degrees.

What is the Rural Access Scheme and how does it relate to this course?

The Rural Access Scheme (RAS) reflects JCU's commitment to empowering regional communities. If you live or have previously lived in a rural or remote area of Queensland, you may be eligible for a rural place in the Bachelor of Dental Surgery at JCU. More information is available through JCU about the Rural Access Scheme and the application process.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

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