Eligibility

A Bachelor's degree in dentistry is the minimum qualification required to be certified as a practitioner.

Levels of Functioning

Particularly in private practice, it is usual to begin one's career as an assistant or associate, with a view to becoming a partner at a later date. This is primarily an opportunity to learn how a practice is run. Work at this level is largely administrative, and involves a good deal of filling out forms, ordering supplies, contacting technicians, etc.

Eligibility

Candidates who have successfully completed the 10+2 School Leaving Certificate Examination, with physics, chemistry and biology, are eligible to apply.

SELECTION

Admission to graduate courses in dentistry is through a general, nationwide competitive examination. The allocation of institutions is based on merit.

DURATION

The BDS (Bachelor of Dental Science) degree is obtained after four years of training, followed by one year of rotating internship. An MDS (Masters in Dental Science) requires two years
of additional training.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMME

The BDS course includes in the first year, such subjects as basic anatomy, physiology and biochemistry, followed by pharmacology and microbiology in the second year. Specialization in dentistry and hands-on practice are done during the two final semesters.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES REQUIRED

Patience; stamina to work hard for long periods, good health, power of concentration, manual dexterity and accuracy.