Cardiff University

School of Dentistry
Undergraduate
Admissions Policy

June 2012

Contents

SECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

1.
2.
3.

4.

5.

6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Introduction
Aims
Equal Opportunities Statement
3.1
Clinical Placements
3.2
Disabilities
Programmes
4.1
Entry Statistics
4.2
A200 Programme (5 year)
4.3
A204 Programme (6 year)
4.4
B752 BSc in Dental Therapy and Dental Hygiene
4.5
B750 Diploma in Dental Hygiene
Admissions Process
5.1
Method of Application
5.2
Decisions
Confirmation of a Place
Complaints
Open Days
Notes for Welsh Language Applicants
Further Enquiries

SECTION 2 - BDS
11.

12.

13.

Academic Entry Requirements for the BDS (Hons) Degree

11.1
A200 Programme (5 year)
11.2
A204 Programme (6 years)
11.3
Mature Applicants, Graduates and Access Qualifications
11.4
Scottish Qualifications
11.5
Irish Qualifications
11.6
Overseas Qualifications
11.7
International Baccalaureate
11.8
European Baccalaureate
11.9
Welsh Baccalaureate
11.10 BTEC Qualification
11.11 Resit Applicants
11.12 Deferred Entry
11.13 UK CAT
11.14 Transfers
11.15 Predicted Grades
The Selection Process
12.1
Selection Policy
12.2
Attitudes and Values
12.3
Initial Academic Assessment
12.4
Selection for Interview
Other Entry Conditions BDS (Hons)
13.1
Criminal Record Check
13.2
Health Check
13.3
Tetanus Vaccination
13.4
Blood-Bourne Viruses
13.5
Other Immunisations and Health Checks

SECTION 3 Dental Care Professionals

14.

15.
16.

Entry Requirements for the BSc in Dental Therapy and Dental Hygiene Programme and the Diploma
in Dental Hygiene
14.1
Entry Requirements
14.2
Equivalent Qualifications
14.3
Minimum Age
14.4
Resit Requirements
14.5
Mature Applicants
14.6
Overseas Qualifications
14.7
Health Requirements
14.8
Criminal Record Check
14.9
Records of Achievement
14.10 Deferred Entry
14.11 Transfers from other Universities
14.12 AP(E)L
Selection Procedure
Interview Procedure

Appendix A: Qualifications for entry to BDS (Hons)

Appendix B: English Language Qualifications

SECTION 1 GENERAL INFORMATION

1

Introduction

This document provides information on the admissions requirements, the selection policy and
procedures for undergraduate degree courses in Cardiff Universitys School of Dentistry for 2012
entry.
Further details of courses can be found in the Undergraduate Prospectus, which can be requested
from prospectus@cardiff.ac.uk

Aims

This policy supports the aim of our undergraduate curriculum which is to educate individuals to
safely practice dentistry in a training environment appropriate to their professional
aspirations. They should be able to combine and use knowledge, skills and judgement and have
appropriate attitudes to deliver a high standard of professional care. This policy also underpins
Cardiff Universitys Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy.
The Admissions Policy of the School of Dentistry intends to ensure that the process of student
selection is objective, transparent, open, fair and free from discrimination. It is reviewed and revised
annually by the Admissions and Monitoring Committee (Taught Courses) of the School of Dentistry
prior to the commencement of the admissions cycle; it is not normally modified thereafter during that
cycle.
This Policy has been written with reference to UCAS guidelines, recommendations outlined in
the Admissions to Higher Education Review "Fair Admissions to Higher Education:
Recommendations for Good Practice" (the Schwartz Report, 2004), the General Dental
Council, The Dental Schools Council Guiding Principles for the Admission of Dental Students
(February 2011), and the QAA Code of Practice: Admissions to higher education (2006). It has
been approved by the School Board. This policy is also available on the Schools website:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/dentl/degreeprogrammes/undergraduate/index.html

Equal Opportunities

The University conducts its student recruitment, selection and assessment procedures on an equal
opportunities basis. It is committed to ensuring that all applicants, students and employees are treated
equally, regardless of their age, race, colour, ethnic or national origins, gender, sexual orientations,
marital status, family responsibilities, physical or sensory disabilities or their political or religious
beliefs.
The School of Dentistrys selection processes are monitored in order to ensure that no applicants are
disadvantaged.
Cardiff Universitys policy on Equality and Diversity can be found at:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/govrn/cocom/equalityanddiversity/index.html

3.1 Clinical Placements

Prior to commencing placements in a clinical setting students will be advised on their responsibilities
towards members of the public. Students must not allow their views about a patients lifestyle,
culture, beliefs, race, colour, gender, sexuality, age, social status or perceived economic worth to
prejudice their approach or attitude towards any member of the public. Students cannot refuse to
undertake a clinical placement based on these grounds provided their safety is not compromised.

3.2 Disabilities
Every applicant to Cardiff University is considered on an individual basis and we welcome
applications from students with disabilities.
Applicants who are invited for interview and who have declared a disability on the UCAS application
form may be contacted by the Universitys Disability Support Service to discuss any support
requirements beforehand. If necessary, an information visit to ascertain if there are any access issues
can be arranged. Applicants receiving an offer will be contacted by the Universitys Disability
Support Service to discuss support that may be required during the course.
Applications are processed without reference to disability. Applicants who are successful at
interview, and who have requested support during their studies at Cardiff University, will then be
assessed as to whether the School of Dentistry can deliver the programme satisfactorily and meet
their support needs. The assessment will also include whether applicants can satisfy the fitness to
practise criteria of the General Dental Council (see http://www.gdc-uk.org). Students with
disabilities are invited to visit Cardiff University and meet with the academic staff members who are
disability specialists.
The GDC advise that students only be admitted if they are physically able to carry out all the tasks
normally done by dentists and dental practitioners; if this is in doubt such applicant may need to be
assessed on an individual basis.
Cardiff University is able to provide support with specific learning difficulties. Applicants invited to
interview will be asked to provide documentary evidence (for example in the form of an educational
psychologist report).
This will enable the School of Dentistry to fully assess specific
recommendations for support with the learning, teaching and assessment.
You are welcome to contact the Student Support Centre before or during your application; staff are
available at both the Cathays Park and Heath Park campuses. Any member of the team would be
happy to deal with your initial enquiry. Staff can be contacted by Email on dyslexia@cf.ac.uk or
disability@cf.ac.uk.
Further information regarding Applicants Declaring Disability / Special Needs can be found at:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/regis/ifs/handbooks/ugatguide/disspe/index.html
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/dyslx/infoapp/index.html

Programmes

Entry to Dental Programmes throughout the UK is subject to strict quotas. The purpose of these
quotas is to allow the Government to control entry to the Dental profession as part of its manpower
planning strategy.
The Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) has currently set the maximum quota for entry to the BDS
programme at 76 Home/EU students, 4 Overseas, 6 to the BSc in Dental Therapy and Dental
Hygiene, and 7 to the Dental Hygiene Diploma Programme. The intake of students from overseas is
also subject to a Government imposed quota.
In addition, a total of approximately 20 students can be admitted to the amalgamated medical (A104)
or dental (A204) preliminary (six- year) programmes.

4.1 Entry Statistics

The number of applications to each of the programmes is monitored closely on an annual basis. For
entry in 2011 the School of Dentistry received approximately 1000 applications for the BDS (Hons).
Of these, approximately 200 applicants were interviewed and following interview 160 offers were
made. There were 457 applications for DCP programmes with 105 interviews and 13 offers made. In
common with other Dental Schools competition for places is extremely keen.

4.2 A200 Programme (5 years)

This is the conventional 5- year programme leading to the BDS (Hons) degree.

4.3 A204 Programme with Preliminary Year (6 years)

This Preliminary programme is designed for applicants who have demonstrated a high academic
potential but who do not meet the specific subject requirements for entry to the five year dental
programme, (e.g. those who have followed GCE Advanced level courses in non-science subjects or a
combination including no more than one of Biology, Chemistry or Physics) or those who have not
studied biology and chemistry to sufficient depth because of the nature of the programme of study
followed (e.g. Irish Higher). Year 1 of this Programme has a modular structure in which students
pursue twelve modules. Studies centre primarily on Chemistry and Biological Sciences, supported by
other subjects such as Mathematics and various other non sciences subjects. The modules are
selected according to the students prior qualifications.

4.4 B752 BSc (Hons) in Dental Therapy and Dental Hygiene

This is a full time programme lasting three academic years.

4.5 B750 Diploma in Dental Hygiene

This is a full time programme lasting 2 academic years.

Admissions Process

The admissions process is reviewed at the end of each cycle by the Admissions and Monitoring
(Taught Courses) Committee. The Committee recommends to the Learning, Teaching, and Quality
Committee any changes in policy including the selection criteria. This policy and the selection
criteria will not normally be changed during an admissions cycle.

5.1 Method of Application

All applications must be made through the UCAS scheme, details of which can be found at
http://www.ucas.ac.uk Applications can be made either in English or Welsh language.

Applicants for the BDS degree are advised that no more than four choices from the possible five can
be used for BDS programmes. Applications received after the UCAS deadlines will not be
considered unless reasonable and documented extenuating circumstances can be presented to account
for the delay. The deadlines for receipt of applications are:BDS A200 and A204 - 15 October 2011
Other programmes - 15 January 2012

5.2 Decisions
Applicants will be advised of decisions by UCAS, and also in writing by the School Academic
Office outlining both academic and non-academic conditions.

Confirmation of a Place

The examination results of applicants holding conditional offers who are taking standard
qualifications, are transmitted electronically by UCAS to Cardiff University. The School of
Dentistry Academic Office Manager and Admissions Officer will review grades obtained. Applicants
with non-standard qualifications such as IB, Access, graduates, and overseas qualifications will need
to forward confirmation of their results to the Admissions Officer. Applicants who have met the
terms of their offer will be notified on results day by UCAS, and later in writing by Cardiff
University. Those who have failed narrowly to meet the terms of their offer are referred to the
Admissions Tutor for review. The Admissions Tutor will take into account all information available
relating to the application, including documented extenuating circumstances if appropriate, before
making a decision as to whether the student should be offered a place. UCAS and the Academic
Office will notify the applicant of the decision. The decision of the Admissions Tutor is final.
Further information relating to your confirmation of a place can be found at:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/regis/general/index.html

Complaints

Cardiff University is committed to delivering a high quality, efficient and fair admissions process to
its applicants. Applicants may lodge a complaint if they feel that procedural aspects of the selection
process, as documented in the Schools published policies and procedures, have not been fairly or
properly applied. Applicants may not appeal to the University against the academic judgement of the
Selection Panel or the applicants failure to fulfil non-academic conditions of admission.
Complaints must be submitted by the applicant in writing to the Director of Registry. As much detail
as possible should be provided about the reason(s) why the applicant considers that his or her
application has not been considered fairly and properly according to the published policy and
procedures, including copies of all available evidence to support the complaint. The correspondence
should be sent to:
Director of Registry, Governance and Students
Cardiff University
Mackenzie House
30 36 Newport Road
Cardiff CF24 0DE
The complaint must be dated and signed by the applicant, and submitted within one month of the
date printed on the letter that informed the applicant of the Universitys decision. The Director of
Registry will undertake an investigation, seek a response from all relevant staff and normally will
inform the applicant of the outcome within 15 working days. The aim is to resolve complaints
quickly and efficiently.

Open Days

BDS
The School of Dentistry organises one Open afternoon each year. This is usually held in July and any
prospective Dental Students are welcome to attend. The afternoons consist of a series of short talks
on different aspects of Dentistry, followed by the opportunity to look around the School of Dentistry
and speak to some of the current BDS undergraduates. Further details on all events held at Cardiff
University can be found at:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/dentl/degreeprogrammes/undergraduate/dentalsurgery/applications/openday/index.html

Dental Care Professions

An Open Afternoon is held every year. All prospective Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy and Hygiene
students are welcome to attend. Details and dates can be obtained on the following link:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/dentl/degreeprogrammes/undergraduate/dentaldiplomas/openday/index.html
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/dentl/degreeprogrammes/undergraduate/dentaltherapyBSc/openday/index.html

Notes for Welsh Language Applicants

The School of Dentistry is happy to make arrangements for interviews for candidates who wish to
have their interview through the medium of Welsh. Where possible, such interviews are arranged on
the same day as interviews in English. However, where this is not possible, special arrangements will
be made subject to the availability of Welsh speaking staff. Where possible a Welsh speaking
undergraduate student will conduct the tour of the facilities for these candidates.
Further information for Welsh Speaking applicants can be found at:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/ug/furtherinfo/forugwelshinfo/index.html

10

Further enquiries:

For further enquiries regarding admission to the BDS programmes please contact:
Mrs V Ocock
Admissions, Enrolment and Graduation Officer
Dental Academic Office
School of Dentistry
Cardiff University
Heath Park Campus
Cardiff CF14 4XY
Telephone: +44 (0) 29 2074 2468
Email: dentaladmissions@cardiff.ac.uk

SECTION 2 BDS (Hons) degree

11

Academic Entry Requirements for the BDS (Hons) degree

Details of the minimum academic requirements for entry to the programmes are detailed in
Appendix 1. However, lower levels of academic achievement may be considered if there are
exceptional extenuating circumstances. Extenuating circumstances must be documented prior to
application and details of these should be submitted directly to the Admissions Officer at the School
of Dentistry. Please note that these are subject to review each year and there may be
differences from those published in the main prospectus as a result of publishing deadlines.

11.1 A200 Programme (5 years)

The standard offer for September 2012 entry to the five year programme is for AAA grades to be
achieved from three A- levels, with A grades in Chemistry and Biology. The third A- level can be
any recognised subject and the School does not give preference to applicants with three science
subjects. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not acceptable subjects at either AS or A- level.
GCSE grades are taken into account and applicants will normally be expected to have achieved a
minimum of B grades. Applicants must achieve a minimum of B grades in the science subjects
(Double Science Award is acceptable), Mathematics and in English Language. Please note that as a
result of the high level of competition for places the majority of those who are successful in obtaining
an offer hold GCSEs at grades A and A*.

11.2 A204 Programme (6 years)

This programme is designed for applicants who have demonstrated a high academic potential but
who have not been afforded the opportunity of meeting the subject requirements for direct entry to
the five year programme. The first year of the programme has a modular structure in which students
pursue twelve modules. Studies centre on Chemistry and Biological Sciences or other subjects such
as Mathematics, selected according to the students prior qualifications. The standard is
approximately equivalent to GCE A-level and it is intended for applicants with non-science A- levels
or a combination not including more than one of Biology, Chemistry or Physics. The standard offer
for entry is for AAA grades to be achieved. GCSE grades will be taken into consideration and
applicants will normally be expected to have achieved a minimum of B grades. Applicants must
have achieved English Language, plus two from Chemistry, Physics or Biology at grade B or above.
Double Science Awards are also acceptable, although a minimum of BB grades will be required. As
with the A200 programme this is a very competitive course and most applicants successfully
receiving an offer hold GCSEs at grades A and A*.

11.3 Mature Applicants, Graduates and Access Qualifications

The School of Dentistry welcomes applications from mature students. Students with degree level
qualifications are expected to have met the standard A-level subject requirement AND have received
a minimum Upper Second Class Honours degree (2i). Graduate applicants are expected to have
achieved a minimum of three B grades at A-level. Whilst the School does not reserve a set number of
places for mature students, the School is restricted in having a maximum of five places in each intake
for graduate applicants. Each case is considered on its individual merits.
Students who are pursuing a Kite- marked Science Access Course or the Access to Medical,
Dentistry and Pharmacy course will be considered on an individual basis for entry only to the
Preliminary Programme (A204). A small number of places are available and selected applicants may
be interviewed towards the end of the decision period when these students have had an opportunity to

adjust to the demand s of the Access Course. The Schools standard offer is for the equivalent of 80%
to be achieved overall in an Access Course.
All applicants will need to assess their financial situation very carefully. Further information can be
found at http://www.cf.ac.uk/advice/funding/maturestudents/index.html

11.4 Scottish Qualifications

Applicants taking Scottish Highers are considered for entry to the Preliminary (six year) Programme
(A204). The School grade minimum requirement is AAAAA and should include English Language,
plus at least two from Chemistry, Biology and Physics.
An Applicant offering AA grades in Advanced Higher Chemistry and Advanced Higher Biology
would be considered for entry to the five year (A200) programme.

11.5 Irish Qualifications

Applicants with the ILC are considered for entry to the six-year A204 course. Our
standard requirements are for AAAAAA grades to be achieved at the first attempt
which must include at least one of Chemistry, Biology or Physics plus English
Language. All grades must be at Highers/Hons level. Grades are always required as
we do not work on a points score total.

11.6 Overseas Applicants

Applications through UCAS from overseas applicants are welcomed. Whilst the majority of
applicants offer A- levels, other international qualifications are acceptable. Overseas applicants who
are not offering GCSE English Language grade B are required to satisfy the Universitys English
Language requirement. Applicants must offer an internationally recognised English Language
qualification which must include reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. Acceptable
qualifications are detailed in Appendix B.
There are a limited number of places available for overseas students (maximum four) and preference
is therefore given to applicants from countries which do not have their own Schools of Dentistry. All
applicants who are considered for the BDS programmes including overseas applicants are required to
attend for interview. However, it may be possible to arrange an interview by telephone/video
conference for those applicants unable to travel to the United Kingdom (UK) in certain
circumstances at the discretion of the Admissions Tutor. Overseas applicants are strongly advised to
take the necessary steps to ensure that all fees can be met. Further information regarding this can be
found at http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/regis/general/index.html
Following Graduation, overseas students are not eligible to undertake Vocational Training in the UK.
For further information regarding this please click on the following link:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/studentsupport/international/employment/workingafterstudies/index.html
A Specific International Foundation Programme is also offered by the University for overseas
applicants wishing to apply for programmes at Cardiff University
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/inter/ifp/index.html

10

11.7 International Baccalaureate

The School of Dentistry will consider applications from students taking the International
Baccalaureate Diploma; the Schools standard minimum requirement is for a total of 36 points to be
obtained. For entry to the five year programme the Highers must include both Chemistry and Biology
(minimum grade 6). Irrespective of the point total all applicants must have obtained the Diploma.

11.8 European Baccalaureate

An overall mark of 8.0 (80%) is the Schools standard offer for students applying on the basis of the
European Baccalaureate Diploma.

11.9 Welsh Baccalaureate

The School of Dentistry will consider applications from students taking the Welsh Baccalaureate.
The Schools standard requirement would be for the Welsh Baccalaureate Diploma to be achieved
with 360 tariff points, including 12 units in optional qualifications. AA grades will be required in
Chemistry and Biology.

11.10 BTEC Qualification

Applicants taking the National Diploma Course in Science or Medical Laboratory Science would be
considered for entry to the Preliminary (six year) programme, A204.

11.11 Resit applicants

The School of Dentistry does not consider applications from resit students. However, this is with the
exception of students who have held a conditional firm place for the BDS in the previous year and
did not achieve the required grades.

11.12 Deferred Entry

The School of Dentistry considers applicants who wish to defer entry providing the intervening year
is spent in a positive and worthwhile way. Further advice relating to a gap year can be found at
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/simplyparents/applying/choosingcourse/index.html. All applications must
be made through UCAS in the normal way, clearly stating the appropriate year of entry.

11.13 UK Clinical Aptitude Test (UKCAT)

All applicants applying for both A200 and A204 will have to sit the UKCAT examinations. No offers
to read Dentistry will be made unless we have received a candidates UKCAT score. The School of
Dentistry does NOT state a minimum score to be achieved in the UKCAT. For full information and
details on how to sit the UKCAT please visit their website: www.ukcat.ac.uk

11.14 Transfers
The programme structure and assessment leading to a Classified Honours degree has made it
extremely difficult to consider transfer requests. Each case is considered thoroughly and on its own
merits.

11.15 Predicted Grades

While the A level grade requirement for both the Five and Six year programmes are AAA we will
ONLY consider applications from students who have been predicted a minimum of AAB. However,
lower levels of predicted academic achievement may be considered if there are exceptional
extenuating circumstances. Extenuating circumstances must be documented prior to application and
details of these should be submitted directly to the Admissions Officer at the School of Dentistry.

11

12

The Selection Process

12.1 Selection Policy

In order to achieve the aims of the BDS programme the School of Dentistry seeks to admit students
from all backgrounds who can demonstrate the following aptitudes and qualities:
evidence of potential for high academic achievement;
an understanding of the demands of Dental training and practice;
a caring and committed attitude towards people;
the ability to communicate effectively;
a willingness to accept responsibility;
non-academic interests and personal achievements.
The selection policy for prospective Dental students also involves a judgement about the individuals
ability to meet the academic, physical and emotional demands of healthcare training.

12.2 Attitudes and Values

The School of Dentistry expects and seeks to admit students who will show exemplary behaviour and
courtesy towards patients, teaching staff, other members of the healthcare team and members of the
general public. The School of Dentistry also places particular emphasis on the duties and
responsibilities students will have as a future dentist (see http://www.gdc-uk.org/Our+work/Standards)

12.3 Initial Academic Assessment

In order to establish an applicants potential to cope with the academic requirements of the
programme, the initial assessment consists of prioritising applications based on meeting the
following minimum academic criteria shown in the table below. The best 7 GCSEs are assessed
(short courses are not counted), which must include the following:
GCSEs - to include
English Language (or Welsh in 1st Language)

Sciences

Either BB grades at Double Award OR

BBB in Chemistry, Physics and Biology
(any order).
Other subjects not stated above, to make a
total of 7, at a minimum grade B
Please note that although a minimum of
B grades will be required Dentistry is a
very competitive course and most
applicants successfully receive an
interview who are hold GCSEs at grades
A and A*.

Other subjects

Academic criteria for other qualifications and categories of applicants are described in the Academic
Entry Section. Documented extenuating circumstances will be taken into consideration at the time of
application and information regarding the difficulties experienced should be sent direct to the School
of Dentistry Admissions Officer. Applicants who do not quite meet the above academic criteria may
also be eligible for interview, depending on the strengths of their Personal Statement and Referees
report.

12

12.4 Selection for Interview

Applicants are selected for interview based upon the demonstration of the necessary academic
potential (qualifications and UKCAT score) together with information contained in their UCAS
Personal Statement (demonstrating their ability to meet the non academic criteria) and also the
Referees comments. Each UCAS application is given careful consideration by the School of
Dentistry Selectors:
The interviews at Cardiff University School of Dentistry involve the use of a Multi Mini Interview
procedure which is based on the Objective Structured Clinical Examination format that is commonly
used by Health Sciences programmes to evaluate clinical competence.
The interview process is an opportunity to assess interviewees in person and assess information that
is not readily forthcoming from traditional application processes. MMIs are offered to applicants
reaching sufficiently high academic reference together with excellent supporting evidence.
The MMIs are made up of a series of short, carefully timed interview stations which provide
information about applicants ability to think on their feet, critically appraise information,
communicate ideas, and demonstrate they have thought about some of the issues that are important to
the dental profession. There are ten stations in total. Each mini interview lasts a maximum of 5
minutes.
The School assess the ability to apply general knowledge to issues relevant to the culture and society
in which students will be practicing should they be successful in gaining admission to (and ultimately
graduating from) the School of Dentistry. Equally important, will be an assessment of the ability to
communicate and defend personal opinions. It is important to know that there are no right answers
for many of the scenarios.
The results of all assessments will be used to determine which applicants receive an offer. 2
important points to remember:

13

there are no absolutely correct answers for any of the stations;

the MMI is not intended to test the amount of prior knowledge in these domains.

Other Entry Conditions BDS (Hons)

13.1 Criminal Record Check

Admission to the BDS Programmes is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974) Section 4
(2) (exemption) Order 1975 and DHSS Circular HC (88) 9 guidelines regarding child protection and
police checks. It is also considered important to ensure that applicants attitudes and values are such
that he/she can reasonably be admitted to the Dental Profession. All offers given to applicants will,
therefore, include a condition relating to a satisfactory criminal record check. This condition must be
satisfied before commencement of the course. Detailed information will be given to successful
applicants with letters offering places. Information on the Disclosure process can be found on the
Criminal Records Bureau website: http://www.crb.gov.uk. All information is treated in absolute
confidence and applicants with convictions to declare are assessed individually as to their suitability.
For further information on Applicants Declaring a Criminal Conviction can be found at:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/regis/ifs/handbooks/ugatguide/cricon/index.html

13

13.2 Health Check

All offers given by the School of Dentistry will be conditional upon a satisfactory health check.
Health questionnaires are sent to applicants in the Spring after offers are made. Applicants are
required to return their completed questionnaires to the Health Centre before commencement of the
course.

13.3 Tetanus Vaccination

Successful applicants who accept an offer for entry to the BDS programmes must ensure that they
have an up-to-date Tetanus vaccination (i.e. within the last 10 years). Students who do require a
vaccination must ensure that vaccination occurs at least six weeks before commencing the
programme.

13.4 Blood-Borne Viruses

The UK Health Departments have defined those procedures where the potential exists for an infected
healthcare professional to transmit a blood borne virus to a patient. These procedures have been
termed exposure-prone procedures. It is not possible to train in dentistry without performing many
exposure-prone procedures. For this reason all dental students must be tested for the blood borne
viruses hepatitis B and hepatitis C in the first 2 weeks of the course. Only blood samples taken in the
Occupational Health Department are acceptable. You will be asked to produce photographic proof of
identity such as a Page 13 of 21 passport, drivers licence, or university identity badge when having
your blood taken. Infection with blood borne viruses in the UK is uncommon but is more common in
other parts of the world. If you have any reason to think that you may have been exposed to hepatitis
in the past you should discuss this with your doctor or contact the Health Centre at Cardiff University
for advice (see http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/osheu/healthcentre). For further information regarding
Health Clearance for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV and Tuberculosis please click on the following
link: http://www.medschools.ac.uk/publications.htm Please note that this screening forms part of
the conditions of entry to the course and there is a possibility that students will not be able to
undertake the course depending on the results of the screening.

13.5 Other Immunisations and Health Checks.

The UK health departments issue guidance from time to time concerning the health checks the
government requires of new recruits to the NHS and healthcare students. Present practice includes
checks for rubella, chickenpox and tuberculosis. In certain cases vaccination of non- immune
individuals is recommended. Failure to comply with this programme may jeopardise your progress
on the dentistry course.

14

SECTION 3 Dental Care Professionals

14

Entry Requirements

All applicants are expected to have a good understanding of the remit of the dental hygienist and / or
dental therapist.
14.1 Entry Requirements
Diploma in Dental Hygiene

All applicants must have a minimum of five GCSEs (or their equivalent). The minimum acceptable grade
for GCSE being grade C unless stated otherwise. These GCSEs must include:
GCSE English / Welsh Language grade B or above
All applicants must also either have:Two A Levels at grade C or above including one in a Biological based subject
OR
A recognised Dental Nurse qualification and an A level in a Biological based
subject at a minimum of grade C
BSc in Dental Therapy and Dental Hygiene

All applicants must have a minimum of five GCSEs (or their equivalent). The minimum acceptable grade
for GCSE being grade C unless stated otherwise. These GCSEs must include:
GCSE English / Welsh Language grade B or above
All applicants must also have achieved:Three A Levels at grade B or above to include at least one Biological based subject
OR
A recognised Dental Nurse qualification together with 2 A levels at grade B or above to
include at least one Biological based subject
14.2 Equivalent qualifications
Other qualifications may be considered as equivalent. Applicants offering equivalent qualifications will
be considered (eg Access courses, GNVQ, BTEC, IB etc) and are invited to contact the Admissions
Officer for further information.
14.3 Minimum Age
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age by 31st December after entry. No upper age limit is in force
and applications are welcomed from mature students who meet the academic entry requirements as
described.
14.4 Resit Requirements
Resist applicants at A Level or comparative level may be considered in exceptional circumstances. The
grade requirement for resit A level students will be at a higher level.
14.5 Mature Applicants:
Applicants from mature students who have met the entry requirements described above are welcomed.
Evidence of recent study must be shown.
14.6 Overseas Qualification:
Due to the student numbers available there are very few opportunities for places to be available for
overseas students, in some years we have no vacancies. Applicants from overseas are advised to contact
the Admissions Officer before submitting a formal UCAS application. Applications from overseas
students will be considered individually.

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Overseas applicants must be able to satisfy the standard entry requirements. Overseas applicants who are
not offering GCSE English Language are required to satisfy the Universitys English Language
requirements. English Language qualifications must include reading, writing, speaking and listening
skills. Acceptable qualifications are detailed in Appendix B.
14.7 Health Requirements:
Health Check

All offers given by Cardiff University will be conditional upon a satisfactory health check. Health
questionnaires will be sent to applicants when offers are made. Applicants must return their completed
health questionnaires to the Occupational Health Department.
Hepatitis B and C Requirements

All offers of places made to dental hygiene and dental therapy applicants will be conditional until receipt
of a satisfactory health check and evidence of either immunity or non-infectivity to Hepatitis B and a
negative Hepatitis C blood test. To confirm your Hepatitis status our Occupational Health Department
will need to obtain a blood sample. This will be organised during your first week in Cardiff and the
schedule will be explained to you at enrolment. Occupational Health will need to establish your identity
at the time the blood sample is obtained. Please note that this screening forms part of the
conditions of entry to the course and there is a possibility that students will not be able to
undertake the course depending on the results of the screening.
Tetanus Vaccination

Applicants who accept an offer for the BSc or Diploma programmes, should check with their GP that
their Tetanus vaccination is up-to-date (i.e. within the last 10 years). If a vaccination is required, it must
be arranged at least 6 weeks before starting the programme.
14.8 Criminal Record Check
Applicants will be required to complete a Criminal Records Bureau Disclosure Application. Detailed
information will be sent to those holding conditional offers in the Spring.
Information on the Disclosure process can be found on the Criminal Records Bureau website:
http://www.crb.gov.uk. All information will be treated in absolute confidence and applicants with
convictions to declare will be assessed individually as their suitability.
14.9 Records of Achievement
Applicants are not routinely asked to submit Records of Achievement. However, applicants selected for
interview are welcome to submit these for consideration by the interview panel. Applicants who do not
have Records of Achievement will not be disadvantaged.
14.10 Deferred Entry
The School of Dentistry considers applicants who wish to defer entry providing the intervening year
is spent in a positive and worthwhile way. Further advice relating to a gap year can be found at
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/simplyparents/applying/choosingcourse/index.html. All applications must
be made through UCAS in the normal way, clearly stating the appropriate year of entry.
14.11 Transfers from other Universities
It is not possible to accept transfers from other Dental Hygiene / Therapy Schools or University courses
for the Diploma in Hygiene.
14.12 AP(E)L for the BSc
Students who have previously completed the Cardiff University Combined Diploma in Dental Therapy
and Hygiene programme within 5 years of the date of application will be equally eligible to apply for the
final year of study with their Diploma accredited as prior learning (available from 2014 entry).

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AP(E)L is applicable for entry to the BSc programme and students will be expected to submit Curriculum
Vitae, a copy of the curriculum undertaken to achieve their prior education and an outline of their
previous learning experience.
All individuals participating in this type of application will have their existing Dental Therapy and
Hygiene qualification and clinical experience considered for Approved Prior Learning exemption by the
members of the interview panel.
Subject to the review of each students CV and application form, and confirmation of their Continuing
Professional Development a decision will be made by the School of Dentistry.

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Selection Procedure

(i) Initial Academic Assessment

In order to establish applicants potential to cope with the academic requirements of the programme, the
initial assessment consists of prioritising applications based on them meeting the minimum academic
criteria.
(ii) Selection for Interview
Applicants who meet the minimum educational entry requirements are selected for interview on the basis
of information contained in their UCAS application form (demonstrating their ability to meet the criteria
described) and also the comments of referees.
Each application is given careful consideration by the Admission Tutor and by at least one other member
of the Selection Panel and the following criteria are assessed and scored independently:

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Academic record
Dental work experience / research undertaken
Motivation towards dental hygiene / dental therapy
Non-academic interests

Interviewing Procedure

No offers are made to applicants without interview. Applicants should bring with them proof of academic
qualifications already obtained and their original birth certificate.
The selection process involves a fifteen minute interview. The interview panel consists of two members
of staff. Interviewers receive specific guidance on the form and conduct of the interview, including
advice on the avoidance of questions which might imply any unfair discrimination.
The aim of the interview is to encourage the applicants to talk naturally about themselves, their studies
and their experiences to enable the Panel to form an opinion about how the prospective students meet the
following criteria:

Motivation and understanding of dental therapy / dental hygiene

Academic and potential practical abilities
Dental work experience / research undertaken
Ability to communicate effectively
Awareness of recent and future developments within dentistry
Career intention, focus and direction

Each criterion will be assessed and graded independently by at least two trained and experienced
interviewees. The final decisions will be made when all interviews have been completed.
There is also an opportunity for prospective candidates to meet existing students.

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APPENDIX A
QUALIFICATIONS FOR ENTRY TO BDS (Hons)
A levels
GCSEs

Welsh Baccalaureate
International
Baccalaureate

European
Baccalaureate
Scottish Highers

Scottish Advanced
Highers

Irish Leaving
Certificate

Degrees

AAA grades from 3 A levels. For the 5 year programme the two A grades are specified
in Chemistry and Biology.
NO SPECIFIC number of A grades at GCSE level are demanded but a reasonable
range of grades is expected that must include a minimum of B grades in the Sciences
plus a B grade in English Language or Welsh.
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma Pass to be achieved and to include A level
Chemistry and Biology at grade A.
Five Year course: To obtain the IB Diploma with an overall score of 36 points, with a
minimum score of 6 at Higher Level in Chemistry and Biology.
Six Year course: To obtain the IB Diploma with an overall score of 36 points, with a
minimum score of 6 at Higher Level in ONE of Chemistry, Biology or Physics
8 or 80% overall. Must include both Chemistry and Biology for 5 year course.
An applicant with Scottish Highers can apply for entry to the six year course. We
currently ask for AAAAA grades which must include at least two of Chemistry,
Biology or Physics, plus English Language.
For the five year BDS course we would require at least two subjects at Advanced
Highers in addition to the Scottish Highers as above. These must include both
Chemistry and Biology and for these we would specify AA grades.
If a student has completed Scottish Highers (achieved good grades) then went on
to do the Scottish Advanced Highers but achieved less than the required grades
they would not be considered.
Applicants with the ILC are considered for entry to the six-year A204 course. Our
standard requirements are for AAAAAA grades to be achieved at the first attempt
which must include at least two of Chemistry, Biology or Physics plus English
Language. All grades must be at Highers/Hons level. Grades are always required as
we do not work on a points score total.
IF DEGREE NOT SCIENCE BASED ONLY ELIGIBLE FOR THE SIX YEAR
COURSE
A minimum of 2i Honours classification. The subjects determine eligibility for 5 or 6
year course. School leaving qualifications are taken into account with a minimum of B
grades at A levels.
Graduates are self-financing.
Maximum in each intake is 5 for the five year course.

Resit Students
Overseas Applicants

2:1 degree obtained but unsatisfactory A levels grades Student would either have to
resit their A levels or take new subjects and receive AAB grades.
Resit applicants are not considered unless they have held a conditional firm offer in the
previous year and not met the conditions of that offer
Overseas applicants NOT offering GCSE English Language are required to satisfy the
Universitys English Language requirement.
Applicants must offer an internationally recognised English Language qualification
that must include reading, writing speaking and listening skills.
Please see the weblink below:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/inter/study/howtoapply/englishlanguagerequirements/index.
html

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BTEC Qualifications

MUST BE IN EITHER MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE OR APPLIED

SCIENCE ONLY
Applicants taking the National Diploma Course in Science or Medical Laboratory
Science will be considered for entry to the six year A204 course.

Italian Qualifications

A typical offer would be that DDD was achieved.

Esame di Stato with 90 including high marks in Biology and Chemistry.
Must satisfy both the course entry requirements and the English Language
requirement. Please see the weblink below:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/inter/study/howtoapply/englishlanguagerequirements/index.
html

German Qualifications

The Arbitur with 1.3 overall inducing high marks in Chemistry and Biology is
acceptable.
Any English component of the Arbitur does not satisfy the English Language
requirement, therefore, applicants must satisfy both the course entry requirements and
the English Language requirement.
Please see the weblink below:
http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/for/prospective/inter/study/howtoapply/englishlanguagerequirements/index.
html

Access Course
(1 Year)

ONLY ACCEPTABLE FOR THE 6 YEAR COURSE

Minimum score of 80% (or the equivalent in grades) overall.
If not % - ask College for details of the scoring system grade equivalent would
probably be A.
The only acceptable Access courses are the ACCESS TO SCIENCE course which
must have both Chemistry and Biology components or the ACCESS TO
MEDICINE, DENTISTRY AND PHARMACY course.

Unacceptable
Qualifications

Access to Health Studies.

2 year Therapy/Hygiene Diplomas.
BTEC in Dental Technology.
General Studies and Critical Thinking at either A level or AS level.
A General rather than an Honours Degree.

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