Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad) endorsed in Dentistry

Summary

The Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad) can be used for many purposes, and in some cases, effectively provides an additional major. It requires you to do at least seven papers, of which at least four are at 300-level or above. The programme is designed for graduates and may be completed by full-time candidates in one year or by part-time candidates over more than one year.

A DipGrad is a great way to retrain or to update existing qualifications. Many students also find it a convenient way to continue learning and that it is a useful bridge to postgraduate study.

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. As a dentist, you are the leader of the oral health team and can diagnose and carry out treatment planned for each patient's oral needs.

If you’re considering a career as a dentist, you should be prepared for lifelong learning to maintain your practising standards.

As a graduate, there are opportunities for full- or part-time work in New Zealand or overseas; and opportunities include private general or specialist practice, academic careers, or hospital- or defence-based practice.

Dentistry teaches you:

The scientific foundations in anatomy, physiology, and oral biology

About public health dentistry and how to develop your communication skills

Clinical skills, first in simulation classes in the Faculty of Dentistry’s cutting-edge simulation laboratory, and then in patient sessions

About a wide range of clinical dental disciplines including prosthodontics and clinical cariology, endodontics, periodontics, paediatric dentistry, orthodontics, oral medicine, oral surgery, oral pathology, and special needs dentistry

Subjects of Study

The diploma may be taken in any subject or combination of subjects which constitutes a justifiable and academically feasible programme, taking into account the prior qualifications and experience of the candidate concerned. The papers to be included shall be decided in consultation with the Programme Director and the Heads of the Departments concerned.

Structure of the Programme

a. Every programme of study for the diploma shall

i. consist of papers worth at least 120 points;

ii. include at least 72 points for papers at or above 300-level;

iii. include such other work as may be prescribed in particular cases.

b. The Diploma may be endorsed in any of the subjects defined in the Schedule of Endorsements if the programme includes the requirements specified in the Schedule.

c. Students who have been granted credit for study elsewhere that has not been counted towards any other qualification may include up to 60 points for such credit in a programme. The credit may be at 100- or 200-level only, except in the case of students participating in the Student Exchange Programme, who may be credited with papers at 300-level or above.