Dental Hygiene (Diploma)
- B750
2 years (Full-time) / n/a (Part-time) / n/a (Distance / E-Learning)
At Cardiff you can study for an HE Diploma in Dental Hygiene at the only School of Dentistry in Wales and one of the highest ranked in the UK. The School is based in the Dental Hospital at the University Hospital of Wales, with outstanding facilities and expert tuition. This programme focuses on training ‘dental care professionals’ (DCPs) in providing dental care for patients as a member of a team directed by a dentist.

Key Facts
| UCAS Code | B750 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 years |
| How to apply | www.cardiff.ac.uk/howtoapply |
| Accreditation | |
| Typical places available | 10 |
| Typical applications received | |
| Scholarships & Bursaries | www.cardiff.ac.uk/scholarships |
| Fees |
Funded by the Welsh Government www.cardiff.ac.uk/fees |
| Typical A-level offer | CC |
| Admissions Tutors | Dr R. McAndrew |
| Tel Number | 029 2074 2468 |
| Email address | DentalAdmissions@cardiff.ac.uk |
| School website | www.cardiff.ac.uk/denti |
The Diploma in Dental Hygiene is a full-time programme of study lasting two academic years (90 weeks of study). The programme starts in September and eight students are admitted each year. This programme is validated by the General Dental Council. The aim of the programme of study is to educate you to become competent Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists capable of unsupervised practise within dental teams, working to the prescription of dentists.
The School of Dentistry provides a high-quality, evidence-based, research-led, innovative and student-centred educational experience. The School delivers modern, efficient and effective programmes that produce high calibre graduates who can make a positive impact on society by enhancing patient care and advancing dental science.
All applicants must have a minimum of five GCSEs (or their equivalent).These qualifications must include:
- English or Welsh Language at grade B or above
- Four other GCSEs in any subjects at grade C or above
All applicants must also have one of the following:
- Either a nationally recognised dental nursing qualification Level 3 (or equivalent), plus one A-level at grade C in a biological based subject (Biology, Human Physiology and Health, etc)
OR
- Two A-levels at grade C or above, including at least one biology based subject (see above)
Other: Applications from those offering alternative qualifications are welcome. Please see detailed admissions and selection criteria for more information.
A list of commonly accepted alternative entry qualifications and admissions and selection criteria for this degree programme can be read here.
Many, but not all, dental hygienists first qualify as dental nurses, acquiring a good understanding of dentistry and care for patients, before taking the additional training required for dental hygiene.
In 2010, 100% of the School’s graduates were in employment within six months of graduation.
Employers included a variety of NHS Trusts and higher education institutions. Career destinations included: Specialist dental practice, community dental practice and medical research posts.
Next intake: September each year
School Contact
Name: Dental Admissions Officer
Telephone: +44 (0)29 2074 2468
Fax: +44 (0)29 2074 5004
Email: DentalAdmissions@cardiff.ac.uk
School Website:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/dentl/degreeprogrammes/index.html