Which University Is Best For Dentistry?
The application process as a whole can be gruelling, overwhelming and honestly, just long. But if you’re here, it’s safe to assume the hardest part is behind you!
There are only 16 universities that offer dentistry in the UK; so, you can imagine how competitive entry into the course can be. This, combined with the ability to put down only four choices on your application, means you must be sure you have the best shot at making it in, and also that the school will be suited to you.
What universities offer dentistry?
There are currently 16 universities in the UK that offer dentistry:
University of Leeds
University of Glasgow
University of Plymouth
Queen’s University Belfast
Newcastle University
Queen Mary University of London
University of Manchester
University of Dundee
King’s College London
Cardiff University
University of Bristol
University of Birmingham
University of Liverpool
University of Sheffield
University of Central Lancashire (graduate entry)
University of Aberdeen (graduate entry)
What to look for when choosing a dental school?
Below are a couple of factors to take into account when selecting the dental school that’s right for you:
Course Structure
Personally, clinical exposure was a huge factor for me! The year of introduction, the time you’ll spend treating patients, outreach work and electives vary between dental schools. In addition to this, teaching styles also differ from university to university – it is therefore imperative to ensure you choose a dental school which will suit you best! The three major teaching styles are: Traditional lecture-based learning, PBL (problem-based learning) and EBL (enquiry-based learning) – read up on all three, what they entail and try to envision yourself in that learning environment in order to pinpoint what will work for you. Perhaps also attend open days at universities and attend taster sessions to really get a feel of what it will be like to study there.
2. Location
There are so many important factors to consider within this aspect. If you are moving out, you should look at the cost of living, the accommodation available and what experiences the city has to offer. If you are thinking of commuting, perhaps look at the distance from home, the ease of your route and the cost of transportation. It is definitely worth visiting the university campus, the dental school itself and the city in which the school is located – perhaps on an open day – to really get a taste of what could be the next five years of your life as a student.
3. Entry Requirements
Each university has their own requirements in order to be eligible for the course, as well as different weighting for each aspect. This includes your a level subject choices and predicted grades, your personal statement, entrance exams and even GCSE results. Visit each university’s website to find out how they use each aspect of your application to be able to apply tactfully and maximise your chances of gaining a place!
4. Entrance Exams
Admission to all dental schools in the UK require you sit an aptitude exam called the UCAT – besides the university of Leeds, which instead asks for the BMAT. It is important to be aware of which exams you will be sitting, and advantageous to know this early on as it will really help when it comes to managing your time between a levels, UCAS and extra-curriculars. Check out this article: https://iwanttobeadentist.com/ucatbmat-support to find out more
5. Opportunities available
Each university offers their own unique experiences and opportunities; whether this looks like the ability to intercalate or spend a semester abroad, or even join a society you really like the sound of! These can be academic or social – but effectively, will really help to shape your individual student experience!
How are dental schools ranked?
Dental schools are annually ranked on league tables, and can arguably be a useful tool when gauging which university to apply for. Ranking tables utilise various criteria such as entry standards, student satisfaction, research quality and graduate prospects – but you should definitely check how these have been decided.
My personal recommendation would be to base your decision on the aforementioned factors – every dental school is great in their own way and will qualify you as a dentist with great graduate prospects. The important part is to recognise your needs and wants, and find which university meets that as closely as possible!
Best of luck with your application journey!
Fadheelah, 3rd year student at the University of Leeds