Why Dentistry at RCSI Dublin?
Introduction to Dentistry at RCSI webinar
Our upcoming webinars will give you the opportunity to hear faculty speak in-depth about the content of the programme, learn about the admissions process and ask any questions that you might have. We will host two webinars, one for EU (CAO) applicants at 5pm (GMT) on Wednesday, 12 November and one for international (Non-EU) applicants at 5pm (GMT) on Thursday, 13 November. Click on the relevant button below to register.
RCSI’s new Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme offers students a distinctive educational experience at a world-leading health sciences university. As an RCSI student, you will enjoy an immersive educational journey with a strong focus on acquiring the clinical and communication skills necessary to effectively practice in complex healthcare environments and to serve the oral health needs of diverse populations and cultures.
The BDS at RCSI is a five-year, full-time Undergraduate degree programme designed for students who want to study dentistry in a dynamic, clinically-focused environment. As one of Ireland’s leading dentistry courses and the first community-based dentistry programme in Ireland, the BDS combines cutting-edge facilities, early patient contact, and expert teaching to prepare you for a successful career in dentistry.
You will complete your clinical teaching and learning in one or more of RCSI’s modern, purpose-built Dental Education Centres (DEC) in Dublin. These facilities are designed specifically to meet the learning needs of dental students and to allow you to gain experience in clinical dentistry in a primary care community setting. The RCSI Simulated Dental Learning Environment (SDLE) is equipped with a comprehensive and extensive range of models, equipment and state-of-the-art patient simulators which enables you to develop and consolidate your clinical skills before you start treating patients.
Engagement with local communities throughout the course is one of the keys to you developing professionalism and social accountability skills, plus a real understanding of the needs and demands of different groups in the population. You will spend a considerable proportion of each year working closely with disadvantaged communities and other members of the wider healthcare team in your inter-professional engagement modules.
RCSI’s Dentistry programme ensures that you are fully prepared for a primary care dentistry career. In addition, it provides you with foundations on which to develop your knowledge and skills. This dentistry programme will also provide the basis for future entry into dental specialist training programmes for those who wish to do so.
Small-group teaching
Benefit from small-group teaching that promotes active learning and enables close interaction with your lecturers. This approach ensures you receive regular feedback and tailored academic support throughout your studies.
Early clinical experience
From Year 1, you will engage in supervised patient interactions – an essential feature that sets our dentistry course apart. This early clinical exposure helps you to build confidence in your skills from the start of your BDS journey.
World-class dental facilities
Train in RCSI’s Simulated Dental Learning Environment (SDLE), a high-tech simulation space where you can safely develop and refine your clinical techniques in a low-risk environment before treating patients in real-life settings.
Community-based learning
Throughout the BDS programme, you’ll work closely with local communities, enhancing your professionalism as well as your understanding of social accountability and the diverse needs of patient populations.
Multidisciplinary environment
You will study alongside future healthcare professionals in Medicine, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, and Advanced Therapeutic Technologies. This inter-professional education reflects the collaborative nature of modern patient care.
Career-ready graduate
Our Dentistry course is designed to equip you with the transferable skills needed for a lifelong career in dentistry. You’ll receive comprehensive career guidance and support, helping you to confidently choose your next steps after graduation.