Doctor of Dental Surgery

Improve lives and restore confidence through the art and science of dentistry.

Launch into your dental career with the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). The DDS equips you with the skills and qualifications to apply for registration as a general dentist in Australia and New Zealand.

Learn from leading academics and researchers in classes from seminars to pre-clinics and clinics. Grounded in the latest scientific evidence, the DDS prepares you to excel in every aspect of dental practice.

Key features

• Register as a dentist. Graduates can apply to register through AHPRA in Australia and New Zealand. Graduates are also eligible to apply for the certification process in Canada.
• Comprehensive clinical training. Progress through advanced, evidence-based clinical training by treating patients in second year through to final year, where you will undertake a year-long rotation of placements to give you real-world experience.
• Follow your interests. Pursue specialist training with the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry program offered by the Melbourne Dental School or take a pathway to higher research opportunities including Master of Philosophy or PhD at the University of Melbourne.

Why study dentistry at Melbourne?

Get to know your classmates during orientation and continue to build collegiality across the program as you learn alongside each other. Build your professional network through the mentorship program and by working alongside students across year levels.

• Social responsibility and professionalism. Embody compassion, empathy, respect, and integrity in the provision of ethical, culturally safe care.
• Communication and leadership. Communicate effectively with the person receiving care, their families, carers and communities, and other health and care professionals to support optimal health outcomes.
• Person-centred care. Collaborate with the patient to develop an evidence-based, person-centred management plan including referral to other health, care, and support professionals.

Please note: students will be required to purchase their own equipment for use throughout the course. Indicative costs are $7,000 AUD in the first year, with a further $700 in second year. Further details of first year costs are provided with the letter of offer. Exact pricing will depend on suppliers' agreed prices at time of purchase.

What support services can the Doctor of Dental Surgery students access at Melbourne?

A range of support services are available for Dentistry students at Melbourne.

• Melbourne Dental Students’ Society (MDSS). Gain access to professional development, exciting social events, and make lasting relationships.
• MDHS Student Hub. The MDHS Support Desk is open from 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, for all student enquiries and support needs .
• Placement support and enquiries. Feel supported before, during, and after your clinical placement with our placement support program.

What do students say about the Doctor of Dental Surgery?

Grace Chen

“The Doctor of Dental Surgery degree has opened so many doors for me and shown me that the dental career is not just limited to a general dental practitioner.”

Learn more about the School

Melbourne Dental School News and Events