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Postgraduate degree

Operative Dentistry PG Dip

The details on this page are for the 2024-25 year of entry (programme starting in April 2025). The final application deadline is 27 January 2025. Please check the entry requirements section when considering this course.

Key information

Course type:
Diploma
Delivery mode:
On campus
Study mode:
Part time
Duration:
Two years, April to March
Credit value (UK/ECTS equivalent):
UK 120/ECTS 60
Application status:
Closed

The postgraduate diploma in Operative Dentistry is designed to enhance the operative skills of newly-qualified dentists, as well as experienced practitioners wishing to upskill, whilst they continue to work in general dental practice. Course participants will develop the technical, diagnostic and treatment planning skills necessary to practice modern clinical operative dentistry effectively and efficiently. The course offers a breadth of expertise, covering topics such as restorative treatment planning, anterior and posterior restorations, a variety of different crown preparation techniques, resin- bonded bridges, occlusion, management of tooth surface loss, clinical photography, dento-legal issues, endodontics and restoration of the non-vital tooth, implant maintenance, bleaching, removable prosthodontics provision and a variety of other operative dentistry-related topics.

Key benefits

  • Created in collaboration with the Department of Restorative Dentistry at King's College Hospital
  • A unique and comprehensive blend of practical training, clinical practice, seminars and independent study
  • Designed and taught by leading experts in Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics
Ridhi, Operative Dentistry PG Dip 2022

“I feel more confident treating patients. ”

Ridhi, Graduate, Postgraduate Diploma in Operative Dentistry

The course combines seminars, hands-on training and direct clinical contact with patients, alongside self-guided learning and webinars. Course participants will study the applied science of operative dentistry and acquire clinical and practical skills in operative dentistry. This training will be delivered at the Denmark Hill Campus where you will attend for approximately 46 contact days over the two years. It is specifically designed for dentists already working in dental practice using patients from both their practice and the hospital to develop a reflective log of treatment which will form a major part of the course assessment. The programme is taught and led by Aws Alani, Specialist in Restorative Dentistry and Naureen Rizvi, Specialist in Prosthodontics, in conjunction with visiting lecturers and teachers. The course offers a breadth of expertise, covering topics such as restorative treatment planning, anterior and posterior restorations, a variety of different crown preparation techniques, resin-bonded bridges, occlusion, management of tooth surface loss, clinical photography, dento-legal issues, endodontics and restoration of the non-vital tooth, implant maintenance, bleaching, removable prosthodontics provision and a variety of other operative dentistry-related topics. You will acquire the skills to critically evaluate relevant literature and to apply evidence- based practice to operative dentistry. The clinical sessions will enable you to transfer your knowledge, understanding, intellectual and practical skills to improve and enhance your practice.

Course Aims

  • The programme aims to provide newly qualified dentists and experienced practitioners with a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the scientific basis of operative dentistry.
  • Students will acquire the skills to critically evaluate relevant literature and to apply evidence-based practice to operative dentistry.
  • The clinical sessions will enable participants to translate their knowledge, understanding, intellectual and practical skills to improve and enhance their operative dentistry.

Base campus

Main building at the Denmark Hill campus
Denmark Hill Campus

Home to the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience.

Please note that locations are determined by where each module is taught and may vary depending on the modules you study.

Regulating bodies

King's is regulated by the Office for Students

UK applicants

Standard requirements

A recognised undergraduate dental qualification

Programme-Specific Requirements

Since this programme requires clinical activity that falls within the scope of practice of a dentist, Home/UK applicants should ensure that they either have full active registration as a dentist with the General Dental Council or are able to obtain temporary registration. It is not possible to hold two forms of registration concurrently (for example, full registration as a Dental Care Professional and temporary registration as a Dentist).

International applicants

Equivalent International qualifications

International applicants are required to have a Dental degree from a recognised institution. The recognised status of an institution will be assessed after submission of an application.

English language requirements

English language band:
D

To study at King's, it is essential that you can communicate in English effectively in an academic environment. You are usually required to provide certification of your competence in English before starting your studies.

Nationals of majority English speaking countries (as defined by the UKVI) who have permanently resided in this country are not usually required to complete an additional English language test. This is also the case for applicants who have successfully completed an undergraduate degree (of at least three years duration), a postgraduate taught degree (of at least one year), or a PhD in a majority English speaking country (as defined by the UKVI) within five years of the course start date.

For information on our English language requirements and whether you need to complete an English language test, please see our English Language requirements page.

Selection process

Applications must be made online using King's Apply, the Admissions Portal. A non-refundable application fee of £75 applies.  

Completed applications for April 2025 entry will consist of an online application form, two references, a copy of the applicant's GDC certificate and a CV which should be submitted by the first deadline of 8 December 2024. This is the final deadline for Overseas applications. After this date, the programme will remain open only if places are still available and will be closed as soon as it is full. Where the programme remains open beyond this date, no further Home applications will be accepted after 27 January 2025.

Applications will be considered on a "first come first served" basis according to the date of completion of the application, and candidates will be shortlisted and interviewed on an ongoing basis. Early applications are strongly advised.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview. 

Personal statement and supporting information

As access to patients is required to successfully complete the course, course participants must have access to a clinical environment to allow them to practice the clinical skills developed on the course.

Special consideration may be given to new graduates who are not in secure employment wishing to develop their clinical skills further. In such cases, it may be possible to arrange patient treatment in sessions out with the course (without pay).

You will be asked to submit the following documents in order for your application to be considered:

Personal Statement Yes

A personal statement is required. This can be entered directly into the online application form (maximum 4,000 characters) or uploaded as an attachment to the online application form (maximum 2 pages). Applicants should demonstrate an interest in operative dentistry, hold a dental qualification and be registered with the GDC.

Previous Academic Study Yes A copy (or copies) of your official academic transcript(s), showing the subjects studied and marks obtained. If you have already completed your degree, copies of your official degree certificate will also be required. Applicants with academic documents issued in a language other than English, will need to submit both the original and official translation of their documents.
References Yes One academic reference is required. A professional reference will be accepted if you have completed your qualifications over five years ago.

Teaching methods - what to expect

  Self-guided learning Seminars, field & lab work, studio work, supervised learning Project work
Year 1 350 hours 210 hours 40 hours
Year 2 350 hours 210 hours 40 hours

Typically, one credit equates to 10 hours of work.

We will use a delivery method that will ensure students have a rich, exciting experience from the start. Face to face teaching will be complemented and supported with innovative technology so that students also experience elements of digital learning and assessment.

We will teach you through lectures, seminars, hands-on training and supervision of patient treatment on clinic. An incorporated webinar programme with invited guest speakers provides further opportunity for group learning and discussion. Course material will be available through our online learning environment, King's E-learning and Teaching Service (KEATS), where you will find information, interactive questions, assignments, bibliographic databases and reading material.

This training will be delivered at the Denmark Hill Campus where you will attend for approximately 46 contact days over the two years. In addition, at least 12 webinars will also be provided.

Students are required to have access to adequate clinical facilities and to patients requiring treatment relevant to the subject area.

Assessment

    Your performance will be assessed through a combination of coursework and written/practical examinations. Forms of assessment may typically include case reports, written examinations and unseen cases VIVAs.

    The study time and assessment methods detailed above are typical and give you a good indication of what to expect. However, they may change if the course modules change.

    The study time and assessment methods detailed above are typical and give you a good indication of what to expect. However, they are subject to change.

    Structure

    Required modules

    Courses are divided into modules. You will normally take modules totalling 120 credits. You are required to take:

    Applied Science of Operative Dentistry - Part 1 (30 credits)
    Clinical and Practical Skills of Operative Dentistry - Part 1 (30 credits)
    Applied Science of Operative Dentistry - Part 2 (30 credits)
    Clinical and Practical Skills of Operative Dentistry - Part 2 (30 credits)

    King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

    Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

    Employability

    It is expected that postgraduates will continue in general dental practice, offering a higher standard of clinical care with increased confidence, ability and professional reward. They might also use the programme to enter into assessment via the Royal College of Surgeons or equivalent to be able to practice as an enhanced practitioner.

    The diploma has been designed to equip you with the components needed to apply for a dentist with enhanced skills to your local commissioning group.

    Tuition Fees

    UK:

    Part time: £12,180 per year (2024/25) - course commences April 2025

    International:

    Part time: £15,882 per year (2024/25) - course commences April 2025

    Deposit

    These tuition fees may be subject to additional increases in subsequent years of study, in line with King’s terms and conditions.

    Deposit

    If you receive an offer for this programme, you will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit to secure your place. Deposit payments are credited towards the total tuition fee payment.

    The UK deposit is £500.

    The INTERNATIONAL deposit is £2,000.

    · If you receive an offer before January, payment is due within one month of receiving the offer.

    · If you receive an offer in January, payment is due within two weeks of receiving the offer.

    · If you receive an offer in February, payment is due within one week of receiving the offer.

    · If you receive an offer after 1 March, payment is due within three days of receiving the offer.

    If you are a current King’s student in receipt of the King's Living Bursary you are not required to pay a deposit to secure your place on the programme. Please note, this will not change the total fees payable for your chosen programme.

    Additional Costs

    In addition to your tuition costs, you can also expect to pay for:

    • DBS checks or equivalent criminal conviction disclosure checks approximately; £50 for an initial check; ongoing subscription at £13 per year. Check the government website for further information https://www.gov.uk/disclosure-barring-service-check.
    • Books if you choose to buy your own copies 
    • Library fees and fines 
    • Personal photocopies 
    • Printing course handouts 
    • Society membership fees  
    • Conference attendance (optional)
    • Stationery 
    • Travel costs to London
    • Graduation costs
    • Consider photography equipment (to be discussed further at enrolment): digital camera with a macro lens and ring flash, SD card, photo editing software. 
    • Mirrors and retractors

    Funding

    To find out more about bursaries, scholarships, grants, tuition fees, living expenses, student loans, and other financial help available at King's please visit the Fees and Funding section.

    The course combines seminars, hands-on training and direct clinical contact with patients, alongside self-guided learning and webinars. Course participants will study the applied science of operative dentistry and acquire clinical and practical skills in operative dentistry. This training will be delivered at the Denmark Hill Campus where you will attend for approximately 46 contact days over the two years. It is specifically designed for dentists already working in dental practice using patients from both their practice and the hospital to develop a reflective log of treatment which will form a major part of the course assessment. The programme is taught and led by Aws Alani, Specialist in Restorative Dentistry and Naureen Rizvi, Specialist in Prosthodontics, in conjunction with visiting lecturers and teachers. The course offers a breadth of expertise, covering topics such as restorative treatment planning, anterior and posterior restorations, a variety of different crown preparation techniques, resin-bonded bridges, occlusion, management of tooth surface loss, clinical photography, dento-legal issues, endodontics and restoration of the non-vital tooth, implant maintenance, bleaching, removable prosthodontics provision and a variety of other operative dentistry-related topics. You will acquire the skills to critically evaluate relevant literature and to apply evidence- based practice to operative dentistry. The clinical sessions will enable you to transfer your knowledge, understanding, intellectual and practical skills to improve and enhance your practice.

    Course Aims

    • The programme aims to provide newly qualified dentists and experienced practitioners with a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the scientific basis of operative dentistry.
    • Students will acquire the skills to critically evaluate relevant literature and to apply evidence-based practice to operative dentistry.
    • The clinical sessions will enable participants to translate their knowledge, understanding, intellectual and practical skills to improve and enhance their operative dentistry.

    Base campus

    Main building at the Denmark Hill campus
    Denmark Hill Campus

    Home to the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience.

    Please note that locations are determined by where each module is taught and may vary depending on the modules you study.

    Regulating bodies

    King's is regulated by the Office for Students

    UK applicants

    Standard requirements

    A recognised undergraduate dental qualification

    Programme-Specific Requirements

    Since this programme requires clinical activity that falls within the scope of practice of a dentist, Home/UK applicants should ensure that they either have full active registration as a dentist with the General Dental Council or are able to obtain temporary registration. It is not possible to hold two forms of registration concurrently (for example, full registration as a Dental Care Professional and temporary registration as a Dentist).

    International applicants

    Equivalent International qualifications

    International applicants are required to have a Dental degree from a recognised institution. The recognised status of an institution will be assessed after submission of an application.

    English language requirements

    English language band:
    D

    To study at King's, it is essential that you can communicate in English effectively in an academic environment. You are usually required to provide certification of your competence in English before starting your studies.

    Nationals of majority English speaking countries (as defined by the UKVI) who have permanently resided in this country are not usually required to complete an additional English language test. This is also the case for applicants who have successfully completed an undergraduate degree (of at least three years duration), a postgraduate taught degree (of at least one year), or a PhD in a majority English speaking country (as defined by the UKVI) within five years of the course start date.

    For information on our English language requirements and whether you need to complete an English language test, please see our English Language requirements page.

    Selection process

    Applications must be made online using King's Apply, the Admissions Portal. A non-refundable application fee of £75 applies.  

    Completed applications for April 2025 entry will consist of an online application form, two references, a copy of the applicant's GDC certificate and a CV which should be submitted by the first deadline of 8 December 2024. This is the final deadline for Overseas applications. After this date, the programme will remain open only if places are still available and will be closed as soon as it is full. Where the programme remains open beyond this date, no further Home applications will be accepted after 27 January 2025.

    Applications will be considered on a "first come first served" basis according to the date of completion of the application, and candidates will be shortlisted and interviewed on an ongoing basis. Early applications are strongly advised.

    Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview. 

    Personal statement and supporting information

    As access to patients is required to successfully complete the course, course participants must have access to a clinical environment to allow them to practice the clinical skills developed on the course.

    Special consideration may be given to new graduates who are not in secure employment wishing to develop their clinical skills further. In such cases, it may be possible to arrange patient treatment in sessions out with the course (without pay).

    You will be asked to submit the following documents in order for your application to be considered:

    Personal Statement Yes

    A personal statement is required. This can be entered directly into the online application form (maximum 4,000 characters) or uploaded as an attachment to the online application form (maximum 2 pages). Applicants should demonstrate an interest in operative dentistry, hold a dental qualification and be registered with the GDC.

    Previous Academic Study Yes A copy (or copies) of your official academic transcript(s), showing the subjects studied and marks obtained. If you have already completed your degree, copies of your official degree certificate will also be required. Applicants with academic documents issued in a language other than English, will need to submit both the original and official translation of their documents.
    References Yes One academic reference is required. A professional reference will be accepted if you have completed your qualifications over five years ago.

    Teaching methods - what to expect

      Self-guided learning Seminars, field & lab work, studio work, supervised learning Project work
    Year 1 350 hours 210 hours 40 hours
    Year 2 350 hours 210 hours 40 hours

    Typically, one credit equates to 10 hours of work.

    We will use a delivery method that will ensure students have a rich, exciting experience from the start. Face to face teaching will be complemented and supported with innovative technology so that students also experience elements of digital learning and assessment.

    We will teach you through lectures, seminars, hands-on training and supervision of patient treatment on clinic. An incorporated webinar programme with invited guest speakers provides further opportunity for group learning and discussion. Course material will be available through our online learning environment, King's E-learning and Teaching Service (KEATS), where you will find information, interactive questions, assignments, bibliographic databases and reading material.

    This training will be delivered at the Denmark Hill Campus where you will attend for approximately 46 contact days over the two years. In addition, at least 12 webinars will also be provided.

    Students are required to have access to adequate clinical facilities and to patients requiring treatment relevant to the subject area.

    Assessment

      Your performance will be assessed through a combination of coursework and written/practical examinations. Forms of assessment may typically include case reports, written examinations and unseen cases VIVAs.

      The study time and assessment methods detailed above are typical and give you a good indication of what to expect. However, they may change if the course modules change.

      The study time and assessment methods detailed above are typical and give you a good indication of what to expect. However, they are subject to change.

      Structure

      Required modules

      Courses are divided into modules. You will normally take modules totalling 120 credits. You are required to take:

      Applied Science of Operative Dentistry - Part 1 (30 credits)
      Clinical and Practical Skills of Operative Dentistry - Part 1 (30 credits)
      Applied Science of Operative Dentistry - Part 2 (30 credits)
      Clinical and Practical Skills of Operative Dentistry - Part 2 (30 credits)

      King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

      Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

      Employability

      It is expected that postgraduates will continue in general dental practice, offering a higher standard of clinical care with increased confidence, ability and professional reward. They might also use the programme to enter into assessment via the Royal College of Surgeons or equivalent to be able to practice as an enhanced practitioner.

      The diploma has been designed to equip you with the components needed to apply for a dentist with enhanced skills to your local commissioning group.

      Tuition Fees

      UK:

      Part time: £12,180 per year (2024/25) - course commences April 2025

      International:

      Part time: £15,882 per year (2024/25) - course commences April 2025

      Deposit

      These tuition fees may be subject to additional increases in subsequent years of study, in line with King’s terms and conditions.

      Deposit

      If you receive an offer for this programme, you will be required to pay a non-refundable deposit to secure your place. Deposit payments are credited towards the total tuition fee payment.

      The UK deposit is £500.

      The INTERNATIONAL deposit is £2,000.

      · If you receive an offer before January, payment is due within one month of receiving the offer.

      · If you receive an offer in January, payment is due within two weeks of receiving the offer.

      · If you receive an offer in February, payment is due within one week of receiving the offer.

      · If you receive an offer after 1 March, payment is due within three days of receiving the offer.

      If you are a current King’s student in receipt of the King's Living Bursary you are not required to pay a deposit to secure your place on the programme. Please note, this will not change the total fees payable for your chosen programme.

      Additional Costs

      In addition to your tuition costs, you can also expect to pay for:

      • DBS checks or equivalent criminal conviction disclosure checks approximately; £50 for an initial check; ongoing subscription at £13 per year. Check the government website for further information https://www.gov.uk/disclosure-barring-service-check.
      • Books if you choose to buy your own copies 
      • Library fees and fines 
      • Personal photocopies 
      • Printing course handouts 
      • Society membership fees  
      • Conference attendance (optional)
      • Stationery 
      • Travel costs to London
      • Graduation costs
      • Consider photography equipment (to be discussed further at enrolment): digital camera with a macro lens and ring flash, SD card, photo editing software. 
      • Mirrors and retractors

      Funding

      To find out more about bursaries, scholarships, grants, tuition fees, living expenses, student loans, and other financial help available at King's please visit the Fees and Funding section.

      Application closing date guidance

      We recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible as we may need to request further information from you to assess your application. This is particularly important if your application is successful, and you are required to meet offer conditions and/or you need a Student Visa to study at King’s.

      Our first application deadline is on 8 December 2024 (23:59 UK time). This is also the final deadline for Overseas (international) fee status applications. After this date, the programme will remain open only if places are still available and will be closed as soon as it is full. Where the programme remains open beyond this date, no further Home applications will be accepted after 27 January 2025 (23:59 UK time).

      Please note, you will not be eligible for an application fee refund if you apply after this date, and we are unable to process further offers because places are filled before the final application deadline.

      Key information

      Course type:
      Diploma
      Delivery mode:
      On campus
      Study mode:
      Part time
      Duration:
      Two years, April to March
      Credit value (UK/ECTS equivalent):
      UK 120/ECTS 60
      Application status:
      Closed

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