New Zealand is an attractive destination for international students who want to study dentistry, as it offers a high-quality education system, a multicultural and friendly society, a beautiful and diverse natural environment, and a range of opportunities for personal and professional development. There are two world-class medical schools to study dentistry in New Zealand: Auckland University of Technology and the University of Otago. These universities offer comprehensive and compelling dental education. The programs combine rigorous theoretical and practical training and opportunities for research and specialization. Graduates of these programs are eligible to register and practice as oral health professionals in New Zealand and other countries. New Zealand also offers a range of postgraduate and continuing education courses for dentists and dental specialists who want to enhance their skills and knowledge. The demand for dental services in New Zealand is high, as the population grows and ages, and the awareness of oral health increases. Dentists and oral health practitioners can enjoy a fulfilling and lucrative career in New Zealand, as they work in various settings such as public health, private practice, education, research, and administration. Dentistry in New Zealand is a dynamic and diverse field that offers many challenges and opportunities.
In this article, we look at the two universities in New Zealand that offer dentistry-related programs. We will also look at the entry requirements, tuition fees, and more to study dentistry in New Zealand.
Overview of Study Dentistry in New Zealand
| No. of Programs | 5+ |
| No. of Universities | 2 |
| Degrees Awarded | Bachelor of Health Sciences (Oral Health), Bachelor of Dental Surgery, Master of Dentistry |
| Duration of Study | Undergraduate – 3 years, Masters – 1 year |
| Tuition Fees (2023/24) | 45,000 NZD-50,000 NZD (Oral health), 107,191 NZD (BDS), 112,753 NZD (Master of Dentistry) |
Why Study Dentistry in New Zealand?
High-Quality Education: New Zealand is known for its high-quality education system. The dental programs offered by New Zealand universities are internationally recognized and adhere to rigorous academic standards.
Global Recognition: New Zealand dental qualifications are widely recognized around the world. Graduates can pursue career opportunities in various countries, making their education globally portable.
Research Opportunities: New Zealand universities often provide opportunities for dental students to engage in research projects. This allows students to contribute to the advancement of dental science and gain valuable research experience.
Modern Facilities and Technology: Dental schools in New Zealand are equipped with modern facilities and state-of-the-art technology. This ensures that students receive hands-on training using the latest tools and equipment, preparing them for contemporary dental practice.
Quality of Life: New Zealand consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices. The country is known for its stunning landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and a generally safe and welcoming environment. This contributes to a positive living experience for international students.
Healthcare System Exposure: New Zealand’s healthcare system is well-regarded. Dental students may gain practical experience within the country’s healthcare system through clinical placements and internships.
Professional Networking: Studying dentistry in New Zealand allows students to network with local and international professionals in the field. This networking can be valuable for future career opportunities and collaborations.
Pathways to Residency: For those considering settling in New Zealand after completing their studies, the country offers post-study work opportunities and pathways to residency for eligible graduates.
Top Universities to Study Dentistry in New Zealand
University of Otago
The University of Otago is New Zealand’s oldest and one of the most prestigious universities. It was founded in 1869 by a committee led by Thomas Burns, and officially established by an ordinance of the Otago Provincial Council. The university has a strong research and teaching profile and is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world by QS World University Rankings. The university offers over 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across four academic divisions: Business, Health Sciences, Humanities, and Sciences. The university has won many awards and accolades for its excellence in teaching and research, such as the Prime Minister’s Supreme Award for Tertiary Teaching Excellence, the Rutherford Medal, the Marsden Fund, and the Health Research Council grants. The university is accredited by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority and the Tertiary Education Commission and is a member of the Matariki Network of Universities. The university has about 21,000 students, including 3,000 international students from over 100 countries. The Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Otago is the only dental school in New Zealand and one of the best in the world. It is ranked 33rd in the QS World University Rankings by Subject for Dentistry. The faculty’s mission is to pursue excellence in research and to provide high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate education and training to improve oral health nationally and internationally. The faculty offers a range of programs, such as the Bachelor of Dental Surgery, the Bachelor of Oral Health, the Bachelor of Dental Technology, and the Master of Dentistry. The faculty also offers postgraduate diplomas, certificates, and degrees in various dental specialties, such as endodontics, oral pathology, oral surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, prosthodontics, and special needs dentistry. The faculty has a strong research culture, with research groups focusing on areas such as biomaterials, cariology, craniofacial biology, dental epidemiology, dental education, forensic dentistry, implantology, oral microbiology, oral molecular genetics, and pain and neuroscience4 The faculty has state-of-the-art facilities, such as the Dunedin Dental Hospital, the Te Kāika Dental Clinic, and the Auckland Dental Facility, where students and staff provide dental services to the community. The faculty also has international collaborations and partnerships with other dental schools and organizations, such as the International Association for Dental Research, the Asian Pacific Society of Periodontology, and the Matariki Network of Universities.
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Dental Surgery | 3 years | 39,609 NZD (HSFY)
Year 2 – 107.191 NZD |
| Bachelor of Oral Health | 3 years | 45,312 NZD |
| Master of Dentistry | 1 year | 112,753 NZD |
Admission Requirements
General Requirements
- Academic Transcripts.
- High Schools Qualifications for undergraduate programs, and Bachelors program qualifications for graduate programs.
- Proof of English Language Proficiency through IELTS (6.0-6.5) or TOEFL (80-90)
- Your passport or birth certificate must be certified by a person of suitable authority
Bachelor of Dental Surgery:
- Most Dentistry students gain entry after completing the competitive Health Sciences First Year (HSFY) program at the University of Otago. HSFY will be the first year of university study.
- Applicants with Chemistry and Physics backgrounds are preferred over the others.
Bachelor of Oral Health:
To be admitted to the program, applicants must be eligible to attend university and should have attained a satisfactory standard in NCEA Level 3 Biology (or a recognized equivalent).
Master of Dentistry:
- 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.
- Applicants must have achieved a minimum grade point average of B over the 400- and 500-level papers of the qualifying degree.
- Applicants should have relevant clinical experience of at least three years’ duration and/or have completed the Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry before admission to the program.
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Auckland University of Technology
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is one of the largest and most modern universities in New Zealand. It was established as a university in 2000 but has a history of more than 120 years as a place of learning. AUT has five faculties and three specialist locations, offering over 250 programs to about 29,100 students. AUT is ranked among the top 1% of universities in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and has received five stars for teaching, employability, research, internationalization, facilities, innovation, and inclusiveness from the QS Stars University Ratings. AUT has also been recognized for its excellence in teaching, research, community engagement, and sustainability by various national and international awards. AUT is accredited by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) and the Dental Council of New Zealand (DCNZ). The Bachelor of Health Science (Oral Health) is a three-year degree that prepares students to become oral health therapists, who can practice as both dental hygienists and dental therapists. The program covers the theory and practice of oral health, including oral health assessment, diagnosis, management, treatment, and preventive care for patients of all ages. Students gain hands-on experience in AUT’s oral health simulation laboratory and oral health clinic, as well as in community oral health clinics in Auckland and around New Zealand. Students also work on oral health promotion projects in various settings and populations. The program is aligned with the oral health therapy scope of practice and the competencies required by the DCNZ. Graduates can register as oral health therapists with the DCNZ and work in public or private dental services. The program also provides a pathway to postgraduate study in oral health or related fields
| Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
| Bachelor of Health Science (Oral Health) | 3 years ` | 45,600 NZD |
Admission Requirements
- Applicants need to have a University Entrance or equivalent qualification and be capable of meeting the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act and Vulnerable Children’s Act requirements, including police clearance.
- A good level of English proficiency, preferably IELTS Academic with a minimum score of 7.0 in each band.
- Applicants will be ranked based on their academic achievement and/or evidence of accomplishments in the relevant field. Preference will be given to applicants with Biology.
- Applicants need to submit an online application with details about their education and/or employment history, electronic copies of documents like their passport or tertiary qualifications, and a passport-quality photo in electronic format.
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Career Opportunities for Dentistry Graduates in New Zealand
New Zealand is a country with a high demand for dentists, both general and specialist, who can provide quality oral health care to its diverse population. Dentists in New Zealand can enjoy a rewarding career with a high income, respect in society, and a variety of work settings. To work as a dentist in New Zealand, one needs to have a prescribed qualification from a recognized dental school or pass an examination conducted by the Dental Council of New Zealand. There are also other requirements such as English language proficiency, fitness to practice, and registration with the Dental Council.
Dentists in New Zealand can choose to work in different sectors, such as private practice, public health, academia, research, or defense. Private practice dentists can work on their own or in association with others, and offer a range of services such as general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, orthodontics, endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, or prosthodontics. Public health dentists can work for Te Whatu Ora Health NZ (previously District Health Boards), and provide dental care to underserved communities, such as rural areas, low-income groups, children, the elderly, or people with special needs. Academic dentists can work for universities. Research dentists can work for institutes that conduct cutting-edge research in oral health and biomedical sciences. Defense dentists can work for the New Zealand Defense Force, and provide dental care to military personnel and their families. Dentists in New Zealand can also pursue further education and training to enhance their skills and knowledge and advance their career prospects. There are many opportunities for continuing professional development, such as courses, workshops, seminars, conferences, or online learning. Dentists can also join professional associations, such as the New Zealand Dental Association, which represents the interests of dentists and promotes the standards and ethics of the profession. Dentists can also apply for scholarships, grants, or awards, such as the New Zealand Dental Research Foundation, which supports dental research and innovation.
The salary of dentists in New Zealand depends on various factors, such as their experience, qualifications, location, and type of practice. According to Jobted NZ, the median (average) salary for a dentist in New Zealand was 118,200 NZD per year in 2023, which was 91% higher than the national median (average) salary. The salary range for dentists in New Zealand was from 65,119 NZD to 238,000 NZD per year. Dentists with more experience and specialization, such as orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, or dental specialists working for a District Health Board (DHB) or in their own private practice, usually earn more than general dentists or new graduates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, studying dentistry in New Zealand can be a rewarding choice for those who seek quality education and practice in oral health. However, there aren’t many institutions where you can study dentistry in New Zealand, and the admission requirements are quite competitive. Therefore, prospective students should make an informed decision based on their academic goals, financial situation, and personal preferences. They should also consider other countries that have more options and opportunities for dentistry education, such as Australia, the UK, or the US. By doing so, they can find the best fit for their needs and aspirations, and pursue their dream career in dentistry. For more information regarding the options available, contact our admission experts at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!
