COURSE CURRICULUM

The Dental Hygiene degree provides students with a carefully structured curriculum that combines scientific knowledge, professional practice, clinical training, and research skills to prepare them for registration and practice as professional dental hygienists. During the first year, students develop a strong foundation in dental sciences and healthcare principles through modules such as Introduction to Dental Anatomy and Oral Disease, Introduction to Physiology for Healthcare Professionals, Professionalism for Healthcare Professionals, and An Introduction to Evidence Based Practice for Healthcare Professionals. Students also begin developing practical competencies through the Fundamental Clinical Skills for Dental Hygienists module, where they learn essential clinical techniques and patient care skills required in dental practice. In the second year, the programme focuses on developing a deeper understanding of oral diseases and their management through modules including Exploring Aetiology and the Dental Hygienist's Management of Oral Disease and Enhancing Dental Radiology and Radiographic Practice. Students also study the legal, ethical, and professional responsibilities associated with dental practice through the Professional Legal and Ethical Obligations of the Dental Hygienist module while beginning preparations for independent research through Dissertation Planning for Healthcare Professionals. Clinical training becomes increasingly important during this stage through The Clinical Experience of the Dental Hygienist module, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real patient care settings. During the final year, students further refine their professional and clinical expertise through modules such as Clinical Theory for Dental Hygienists and Enhancing the Dental Hygienist's Clinical Development, preparing them for independent professional practice. Students also complete a Dissertation for Healthcare Professionals, demonstrating their ability to conduct research and apply evidence-based practice to clinical decision-making. The programme additionally develops leadership, management, and quality improvement capabilities through the Developing Leadership and Service Improvement Skills for the Future Ready Practitioner module. Overall, the course combines academic study, clinical experience, research skills, and professional development to prepare graduates for successful careers as registered dental hygienists within multidisciplinary healthcare environments.