Applications for the PGDipClinDent open on 1 April and close on 31 May of the year prior to study. When applications open, a link to apply will appear on this page.
Overview
The Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry (PGDipClinDent) may be undertaken full-time (one year) or part-time (two years) at the Faculty of Dentistry depending on the endorsement. Clinical and academic teaching will be evidence-based and will emphasize the comprehensive nature of dental practice with integration of clinical and non-clinical disciplines. Current knowledge of clinical practice and related sciences will be emphasised. Clinical practice, seminars, assignments, case presentations and problem-based learning will be employed as teaching methods.
Please note completion of postgraduate study does not automatically enable you to work as a dentist in New Zealand. You must first complete the Dental Council of New Zealand's registration examinations. Please follow this link to the Dental Council: dcnz.org.nz/i-want-to-practise-in-new-zealand/
Programme details
Regulations for the Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry (PGDipClinDent)
Admission to the Programme
Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences).
Every applicant shall hold the degree of Bachelor of Dental Surgery of the University of Otago or another equivalent dental qualification approved by the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences), and be a registered dental practitioner in their country of practice or residence.
Candidates will be selected on the basis of their previous academic record (normally with a grade average of a B+ or greater), their graduate experience and academic achievements, evidence that they are committed to ongoing education, reports from three referees and postgraduate English requirements (where applicable).
Admission to the programme is limited to a number of candidates determined by the Council annually on the basis of available resources.
Structure of the Programme
The diploma may be awarded in any of the subjects listed above.
The programme of study shall consist of appropriate papers (GDPR 701 and GDPR 702 etc.) which will normally include clinical practice.
Duration of the Programme
The duration of the programme shall be the equivalent of not less than one academic year.
The programme may be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis. Part-time study must normally be completed within three years.
Examinations
Examinations shall be taken at times appropriate to the structure of the programme.
A candidate who fails an examination may, on the recommendation of the examiners, be permitted by the Faculty to be re-examined at another time.
Level of Award of the Diploma
The diploma may be awarded with distinction or with credit.
Variations
On the recommendation of the Faculty, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) may, in exceptional circumstances, approve a course of study which does not comply with these regulations.
Notes:
The due date for applications for enrolment in the programme is 31 May in the year preceding that in which the programme is to be commenced.
Before being admitted, overseas applicants will normally be required to undertake and satisfactorily complete at the School of Dentistry such work as the Faculty may require.
All applicants who have not gained their Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of New Zealand or the University of Otago will have to fulfil an English language requirement.
This information must be read subject to the statement on our Copyright & Disclaimer page.
Regulations on this page are taken from the 2025 Calendar and supplementary material.
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