University of Liverpool Dentistry Department Guide 2011
Content
DENTISTRY The School of Dentistry University of Liverpool Dental Hospital Pembroke Place Liverpool L3 5PS T: +44 (0)151 706 5298 F: +44 (0)151 706 5652 E: [email protected] www.liv.ac.uk MEMBER OF THE RUSSELL GROUP
Dentistry Liverpool has had a Dental School since 1860 and has a proud tradition of providing a first-class education to our students and of providing excellent care for our patients.
Contents Introduction to Dentistry 01 Research in context 04 An investment in your future 06 Programme details 08 Applications and admissions 16
At Liverpool we employ a blend of learning techniques to make the student experience enjoyable, constructive and an intellectual challenge. Dentistry offers an exciting opportunity for satisfying and worthwhile careers that combine a variety of skills and provide a direct benefit to the health needs of the community. As a city, Liverpool has changed beyond all recognition in the past 5 years and now hosts an international-standard Conference centre in addition to its many cultural attractions ranging across the arts and sport. We doubt that there is a friendlier city in the UK or a better place to study dentistry.
WHY CHOOSE DENTISTRY AT LIVERPOOL? The Dental Team. The Dental School has a long tradition of teaching and training the Dental Team. Both Degree and Diploma courses are offered in Dental Hygiene/ Dental Therapy in addition to the BDS Degree courses. There is a close integration of the BDS and Dental Hygiene / Dental Therapy students throughout their clinical training. In this way, a full appreciation of how members of the Dental Team work together is gained by all the clinical students, in preparation for their careers, post-qualification. Investment. The School has undergone a major £6 million investment by the Department of Health (DoH) and the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) in enhanced teaching facilities to accommodate an increase in student places. The investment programme included the construction of sedation suites and oral surgery suites, stateof-the-art training facilities, new tutorial rooms, enhanced patient facilities, and new research laboratories. This programme also included the refurbishment of the School’s lecture theatres, teaching rooms and its Student Common Room which reopened in January 2011 and now includes a Costa Coffee outlet. Please see the School’s website for a virtual tour of our facilities.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
01
The Dental School is highly progressive and has embraced innovation in education and assessment whilst ensuring that world class research leaders feed directly into our curriculum. We recognise that successful training of the dental team relies on regular contacts between staff and students. A range of expert clinicians is available to provide advice and practical assistance as required.
Central location. Most of the teaching is carried out at the Liverpool University Dental Hospital (LUDH), which is housed in a modern building within the University precinct a few minutes' walk from the Students' Union, libraries and city centre. The hospital has over 60,000 patient attendances annually and contains the most up-to-date equipment and facilities. Personal responsibility for learning. Appropriately supported by the School of Dentistry, students will take a very high level of responsibility for their personal learning and progress, and for the management of their patients' care.
HOW YOU LEARN The early years of the BDS courses are predominantly student centred learning with Problem-Based Learning (PBL) supported by lectures. Whilst clinical training in subsequent years continues this method of learning, there is, in addition, small group teaching and lectures throughout the third, fourth and fifth years. Much of the clinical experience is gained with students treating patients in the different clinics in the Dental Hospital under close supervision of the staff.
HOW YOU ARE ASSESSED
02/03
The School’s assessment strategy is based around assessing the learning outcomes that underpin the development of each student’s essential clinical skills. To progress from one year to another, students must satisfy the academic AND clinical learning outcomes at the required level as stated in the assessment handbook.
The assessment strategy for the academic components of the BDS programmes adopts a varied approach including: EMI (Extended Matching Items); SBA (Single Best Answer); Short Answer; Critical Reasoning long answer; OSCE (Observed Structured Clinical Examination); and 1st, 2nd and 3rd BDS inprogramme component essays to assess critical writing skills. As the BDS programme progresses, the assessments are carefully designed and appraised so that they assess application and understanding of knowledge as applied to the clinical situation, so as to link with the essential clinical skills ethos. All summative assessments are preceded by formative assessments, after which the students receive detailed feedback. With regards to clinical activity, BDS students must pass an assessment of basic clinical competence before being allowed to use these newly acquired skills on a patient. Thereafter the assessment of clinical activity is undertaken using case reports, outreach reports and purpose designed clinical monitoring. These clinical monitoring procedures are based on the work-based assessment tools that have been validated for use in postgraduate Dentistry and Medicine. An important aspect of these assessments is their integrated nature, and their use in multiple clinics. This latter point is crucial to the fairness and robustness of the assessments. Furthermore, the system ensures that all Liverpool graduates are in the advantageous position of being able to take their activity portfolio into the work place to aid their foundation training.
KeyFacts 2010 APPLICATIONS Number of places: 107 Number of applications: 1898
RESEARCH (RAE 2008) 40% of research activity deemed world leading or internationally excellent, and a further 55% internationally recognised.
Students train on NHS patients at the Liverpool University Dental Hospital (LUDH) with over 160 dental units and access to over 60,000 patient contacts. Together with the clinical placements in our innovative outreach programme, this provides the volume and case mix necessary to offer a comprehensive experience in clinical training.
FACTS AND FIGURES 98.9% of 2009/10 graduates secured employment or went on to further study within six months of graduating.
MORE INFORMATION The School of Dentistry, University of Liverpool Dental Hospital, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5PS E: [email protected] www.liv.ac.uk/dental
1898 applications in 2011.
95% 40% of research activity deemed world leading or internationally excellent and a further 55% internationally recognised.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
RESOURCES
98.9% of 2009/10 graduates secured employment or went on to further study within six months of graduating.
Researchincontext The University of Liverpool is a research-intensive university, and academic staff in Dentistry are leading researchers in their fields. What this means for you as a student is that your learning will be informed by the very latest developments in the area. An example of a current area of research in Dentistry is Dr. Smalley’s research on the bacteria which cause periodontal (gum) disease.
04/05
Plaque contains aggregates of bacteria that grow as biofilms on the tooth surfaces. Periodontitis is a gum disease that destroys the structures supporting the teeth, including bone, and is caused primarily by Gramnegative oral anaerobic plaque bacteria which break down proteins from blood and gum tissues to gain nutrients and to promote growth. Chronic periodontitis accounts for up to 60% of tooth loss in the UK, and the annual cost of NHS periodontal therapy in 2001/2002 was £174 million.
This is of serious concern, as recent studies provide increasing evidence that periodontitis may be a risk factor for serious diseases such as: myocardial infarction and stroke; higher risk for preterm, low birth weight babies and pose threats to those with chronic diseases like: diabetes, respiratory diseases and osteoporosis. Two black-pigmenting anaerobic bacteria (BPAs), Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Prevotella intermedia, act as key agents in periodontal disease and require haem for growth. Haem enhances virulence in these organisms and is used to form the black pigment which protects the cells from attack by neutrophils in the immune system.
Importantly, BPAs are associated with active periodontal destruction, and play a pivotal ecological role in degrading host proteins to provide amino acids as energy sources for other sub-gingival bacteria. Dr. Smalley’s research revolves around understanding the chemical steps involved in generation of protective haem pigments of the BPAs, and the role these organisms play in initiation and progression of periodontal disease. It has also resulted in the discovery that pathogens other than the BPAs have the ability to produce these defensive, haem-containing layers. In addition, the work has focussed on protease (gingipain and interpain) interactions with haemoglobin and other haem-containing proteins for the purposes of establishing the molecular mechanisms of haem release.
These studies are aimed at determining which components are involved in the binding of haem and deposition of the pigment on the cell surface. Research interests also include the roles of BPAs in rapidly progressing periodontal disease in diabetic patients, in atherosclerosis and in lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients. Aspects of this original research are delivered to undergraduate students to underpin their understanding of periodontal disease and its treatment.
Aninvestment inyourfuture
QUALIFYING YOU FOR LIFE
06/07
Studying dentistry encourages students to develop valuable, transferable skills which provide a strong foundation for their careers and their continuing professional development. Key skills displayed by all of our graduates include: Communication skills (both oral and written) Critical reasoning skills Clinical skills Professionalism Teamworking Lifelong Learning
The teaching facilities at Liverpool are state-of-the-art and the Operative Skills Suite contains all the equipment that you need to practise dentistry before treating your first patients. The lecture theatres have multiple choice answer pads for revision quizzes etc. Tutors at Liverpool are very friendly and supportive of students. The patient contact early on and the atmosphere at Liverpool Dental School make it a great place to study. WILL THOMPSON BDS
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
My time as an undergraduate at Liverpool allowed me to establish the foundations of a rewarding career, gave me a group of lifelong friends and left fond memories of a fun life in a vibrant city. MICHAEL DODD DENTAL SURGERY BDS 2009
Graduate Profile
There is a wide range of career opportunities within the profession. The majority of graduates will choose general dental practice within the NHS and in the private sector. Graduates might also choose a career in the community dental service, university teaching, or the armed forces. BDS graduates can also specialise in one of the many dental specialties.
Programmedetails
Dental Surgery BDS UCAS Code: A200 Programme Length: 5 years Key Contact: Admissions Tutor E: [email protected]
Degrees at a Glance
UCAS Code
Page
Bachelor of Dental Surgery BDS
A200
09
Bachelor of Dental Surgery BDS (Graduate Entry)
A201
11
Dental Hygiene/Dental Therapy BSc (Hons)
B750
12
Foundation to Health Studies (Year 0)
N/A
13
Combined Diploma in Dental Hygiene/Dental Therapy
N/A
14
Becoming a dentist is hard work and the rewards include job satisfaction through delivering a highly professional and personal, community-based role. On successful completion of the programme you’ll be granted a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree that is accredited by the General Dental Council. The School’s BDS programmes have been designed to provide a seamless transition for graduate dentists to postgraduate training by mapping the curriculum and assessments to the Committee of Postgraduate Dental Deans and Directors’ "A curriculum for UK Dental Foundation Programme Training”.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
08/09
The programme consists of three phases. Phase I includes the study of Basic Medical Sciences, which you will study via a ‘ProblemBased Learning’ (PBL) approach in conjunction with lectures. Clinical Dental Skills are introduced during the Special Dental Component in the second semester. Lectures in Oral Health and interactive tutorials in Communication Skills enhance this phase. Phase II occupies the second, third and fourth years of this integrated programme in which PBL, lectures, seminars, critical writing / critical appraisal skills and clinical skills acquisition go hand in hand. A wide range of topics is studied including Oral Sciences and Medicine, Oral Diseases, Medical Emergencies, Law and Ethics alongside the theoretical aspects of the various dental disciplines. Training in the practical skills of dentistry is through the supervised treatment of patients in the Dental Hospital. There is an opportunity to undertake a supervised elective project in Fourth Year.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
Phase III is the final year of study, consolidating theoretical knowledge and clinical experience in preparation for the final examination. In addition to treating patients in the Dental Hospital, students also provide treatment in local dental practices and community clinics thus facilitating a seamless transition into Foundation Training.
Year One This is the Introductory Phase of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme. It has five elements: Introduction to Basic Medical Sciences – a problem-based learning (PBL) component, equivalent to three days per week including personal study Introduction to Oral Health (Preventive Dentistry) Introduction to Operative Dentistry (via a Special Dental Component) Communication Skills Critical Writing and appraisal skills
Year Two Oral Sciences and Medicine– this is an integrated problem-based learning (PBL) component equivalent to three days per week, including plenaries, clinicopathological conferences (CPCs), a distinct human anatomy course and personal study Introduction to Clinical Practice including Radiology: ‘Core of Knowledge’, Clinical Dentistry and Materials Science in the Restorative Dentistry Department: Prosthodontics, Preventive Dentistry, Behavioural Sciences (Clinical Psychology, Primary Care), Management of Medical Emergencies Critical Writing and appraisal skills
For full entry requirements and current module details see www.liv.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses
Year Three Oral Sciences and Medicine – a continuation of the second year Problem-Based Learning (PBL) component with greater emphasis on clinical medicine (equivalent to two days per week) Restorative Dentistry including Conservation, Periodontology and Prosthodontics, and Clinical Preventive Dentistry Orthodontics and Children’s Dentistry, including Clinical Preventive Dentistry and Inhalation Sedation Oral Surgery and Oral Radiology Critical Writing and appraisal skills
Year Four
10/11
Restorative Dentistry: including advanced Conservation, Periodontology, Prosthodontics and Clinical Preventive Dentistry Orthodontics and Children’s Dentistry: including Clinical Preventive Dentistry and Inhalational Sedation Oral Radiology, Dental Extractions and Minor Oral Surgery, Extractions under General Anaesthesia, clinical attachments to Maxillofacial surgery, IV Sedation and Special Care Dentistry, and Medical Emergencies including CPR
Year Five Clinical Dental Practice – This takes up approximately 60% of students’ time and covers: Advanced Operative Skills; Sedation for Dentistry; Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (including attachments to the Maxillofacial Unit at University Hospitals Aintree and the Accident and Emergency Department at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital; attachments to the Oral Pathology Laboratory; Oral diagnosis attachments to the LUDH Examinations Department; and revalidation in CPR Outreach placements in community dental clinics and general dental practices in Merseyside, Cheshire and East Lancashire Independent Course Work, including written case reports Law and Ethics Vocational Preparation – preparing Final Year students for the development of their careers following graduation
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
Dental Surgery BDS (Graduate Entry) UCAS Code: A201 Programme Length: 4 years Key Contact: Admissions Tutor E: [email protected] Building on the graduate’s prior knowledge, in an extended Year One the School fast-tracks graduates through the medical core of Years One and Two of the five-year programme. The programme develops such that the underlying biomedical sciences are integrated with an increasing proportion of clinical practice.
Theoretical learning is carried out in small, problem-based learning groups and is supported by lectures, together with Communication and Clinical Skills components, the Human Anatomy Resource Centre and laboratory sessions. Students will be integrated with the second year students on the five-year A200 course and will be cutting their first cavities at an early stage of the first term. At the end of Year One, students will undertake the same assessment as those completing Year Two of the five-year programme. Successful candidates will then follow the final three years of the five-year BDS programme (A200).
For full entry requirements and current module details see www.liv.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses
Foundation to Health Studies (Year 0) UCAS Code: Apply directly through School of Health Sciences Programme Length: 1 year Key Contact: Karen Madden E: [email protected]
12/13
The University of Liverpool, in collaboration with local FE partners, has developed a Year Zero Foundation Programme for Home/EU students that leads to access onto a variety of vocational Health Studies programmes. Students wishing to study Dentistry follow a pathway that is offered at Carmel College, St Helens. Successful completion, to the specified standard, of this one-year programme ensures automatic progression onto degree programmes at the University of Liverpool in Dentistry. Please note students who have applied for Level One programmes in the School of Dentistry would not normally be considered for this route, which is specifically targeted at Home/EU adult learners with appropriate workplace experience or young people with vocational rather than A level qualifications.
PROGRAMME CONTENT This is a modular programme and successful candidates have to complete 120 Level 0 credits. Core modules include Biology for Health Studies Modules One and Two (45 credits) and Foundations of Professional Studies (15 credits). For students on the Dentistry pathway the remaining modules include Chemistry One and Two (45 credits) and a further vocational module focusing on Health and Social Care (15 credits). In all modules at Level 0 the study skills needed for independent study at undergraduate degree level are developed. Students are also introduced to a variety of teaching methods, for example, formal taught sessions, workshops, practical laboratory sessions, and a variety of assessment tasks, eg written assignments, in class data handling and written and practical examinations to provide a good grounding for vocational programmes.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy BSc (Hons) UCAS Code: B750 Programme Length: 3 years Key Contact: Admissions Tutor E: [email protected]
The BSc in Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy is particularly attractive to applicants who aspire to treat patients but have not achieved the academic requirements for entry to a BDS programme or who do not wish to undertake such a lengthy course.
Year One This full-time programme is studied over three years, with students based at the University of Liverpool. The operative techniques training takes place in a state of the art purpose-built clinical skills laboratory. Clinical training is integrated into and complements the taught modules of the programme.
PROGRAMME CONTENT In Year One of the programme students develop core knowledge and key clinical skills which prepare them to work with patients. In Year Two students continue to develop their clinical skills through the supervised treatment of patients on clinical placements in a variety of dental environments. This provides tremendous opportunities for treating a variety of patient groups and gaining excellent clinical experiences. Alongside this students continue to develop their underpinning knowledge by studying subjects such as paediatric dentistry, restorative dentistry, radiology, behavioural science, oral surgery and learn about plaque related diseases. In Year Three students consolidate theoretical knowledge and continue to gain clinical experience on placements. Law and Ethics is studied in this year and students complete a dissertation. This relatively new programme is subject to General Dental Council approval.
Plaque Related Disease 1 Dental Hygiene Operative Technique Study Skills Basic Medical Sciences Behavioural Sciences Preventive Dentistry Dental Therapy Operative Technique Introduction to Clinical Practice
Year Two Restorative Dentistry Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology Radiology Dental Public Health Clinical Placement A Plaque Related Disease 2 Critical Thinking and Evidence Based Dentistry Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics Clinical Placement B
Year Three Dissertation Clinical Placement C Dental Research Methods Law and Ethics Clinical Placement D Primary Care Preparation Course
For full entry requirements and current module details see www.liv.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses
Combined Diploma in Dental Hygiene/Therapy UCAS Code: N/A Programme Length: 27 months Key Contact: Admissions Tutor E: [email protected] The Combined Diploma in Dental Hygiene and Therapy is a fulltime modular course which is studied over 27 calendar months, with students based at sites in Accrington, Lancaster and Liverpool (subject to SHA commissions).
14/15
All students travel to Liverpool for some of their lectures and clinical training. This provides opportunities for interacting with students studying the BSc and also BDS students. However, the majority of time is spent at the local site. Each site has a clinical skills laboratory where students gain experience on ‘phantom heads’ before progressing to treat patients, mainly in dental practices close to their particular site. The clinical training is integrated into and complements the taught modules of the programme. The Diploma programme is particularly attractive to applicants with a background in Dental Nursing who wish to become more involved in treating patients. Successful completion of the programme leads to registration with the General Dental Council as both a Dental Hygienist and a Dental Therapist. Liverpool is continually redeveloping the course to meet the demands of an ever-changing and exciting dental profession.
Year One Foundation course ECDL Plaque Related Disease 1 Dental Hygiene Operative Technique Behavioural Sciences Preventive Dentistry Dental Therapy Operative Technique Clinical Placement 1
Year Two Restorative Dentistry Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology Radiology Dental Public Health Plaque Related Disease 2 Clinical Placement 2 Critical Thinking and Evidence Based Dentistry Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics Clinical Placement 3
Year Three Elective Clinical Placement 4
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
For full entry requirements and current module details see www.liv.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses
Applications and admissions The information that follows is a brief guide to applying for programmes of study at the University of Liverpool. For full details of our applications and admissions policy, please visit our website at www.liv.ac.uk/ug-admissions
MAKING AN APPLICATION THROUGH UCAS You must apply for all full-time programmes online through UCAS, using the online application system at www.ucas.com The University of Liverpool institution code is LVRPL L41.
WHEN TO MAKE YOUR APPLICATION For up-to-date information please visit www.ucas.com
FOUNDATION TO HEALTH STUDIES (YEAR 0) APPLICATION PROCESS
16
Applications for the foundation programme are made by completing a University of Liverpool Direct Entry application form and returning it to our School of Health Sciences at the University of Liverpool. Copies of the form and guidance notes are available from the School of Health Sciences website. There are normally two closing dates for the receipt of applications, check the website for specific details. See www.liv.ac.uk/healthsciences Application forms and personal statements are screened and assessed. Applicants who meet our admissions criteria, show a strong commitment and enthusiasm for the programme and have demonstrated through their personal statement relevant commitment, interest or work experience will be short-listed for interview.
All offers are subject to satisfactory clearance by the Criminal Records Bureau. An enhanced police check is carried out on enrolment.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS For full current entrance requirements, see www.liv.ac.uk/studyundergraduate/courses For information on English language entry requirements contact the International Recruitment and Relations Team on T:+44 (0)151 794 6730 or E: [email protected]
MATURE STUDENTS We welcome applications from candidates who are not applying directly from school or college, who have non-standard qualifications, or who wish to have work or life experience taken into account as part of their application. Our mature students come to us through a variety of different routes. Please see the website www.liv.ac.uk/maturestudents for more information.
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES We give equal consideration to all applicants and welcome applications from students with disabilities. Please contact the Disability Support Team on T:+44 (0)151 794 4714 / 5117 / 6676, Minicom: 0151 794 4713 or E: [email protected] to discuss your support needs before you submit your UCAS application.
DISCLAIMER Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained within this brochure is accurate at the time of going to press. However, the matters covered are subject to change from time to time, both before and after a candidate’s admission.
FIND OUT MORE Accommodation: www.liv.ac.uk/accommodation Fees and finance: www.liv.ac.uk/money Life in Liverpool: www.liv.ac.uk/study/city Student support: www.liv.ac.uk/study/support
Dentistry Liverpool has had a Dental School since 1860 and has a proud tradition of providing a first-class education to our students and of providing excellent care for our patients.
Contents Introduction to Dentistry 01 Research in context 04 An investment in your future 06 Programme details 08 Applications and admissions 16
At Liverpool we employ a blend of learning techniques to make the student experience enjoyable, constructive and an intellectual challenge. Dentistry offers an exciting opportunity for satisfying and worthwhile careers that combine a variety of skills and provide a direct benefit to the health needs of the community. As a city, Liverpool has changed beyond all recognition in the past 5 years and now hosts an international-standard Conference centre in addition to its many cultural attractions ranging across the arts and sport. We doubt that there is a friendlier city in the UK or a better place to study dentistry.
WHY CHOOSE DENTISTRY AT LIVERPOOL? The Dental Team. The Dental School has a long tradition of teaching and training the Dental Team. Both Degree and Diploma courses are offered in Dental Hygiene/ Dental Therapy in addition to the BDS Degree courses. There is a close integration of the BDS and Dental Hygiene / Dental Therapy students throughout their clinical training. In this way, a full appreciation of how members of the Dental Team work together is gained by all the clinical students, in preparation for their careers, post-qualification. Investment. The School has undergone a major £6 million investment by the Department of Health (DoH) and the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) in enhanced teaching facilities to accommodate an increase in student places. The investment programme included the construction of sedation suites and oral surgery suites, stateof-the-art training facilities, new tutorial rooms, enhanced patient facilities, and new research laboratories. This programme also included the refurbishment of the School’s lecture theatres, teaching rooms and its Student Common Room which reopened in January 2011 and now includes a Costa Coffee outlet. Please see the School’s website for a virtual tour of our facilities.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
01
The Dental School is highly progressive and has embraced innovation in education and assessment whilst ensuring that world class research leaders feed directly into our curriculum. We recognise that successful training of the dental team relies on regular contacts between staff and students. A range of expert clinicians is available to provide advice and practical assistance as required.
Central location. Most of the teaching is carried out at the Liverpool University Dental Hospital (LUDH), which is housed in a modern building within the University precinct a few minutes' walk from the Students' Union, libraries and city centre. The hospital has over 60,000 patient attendances annually and contains the most up-to-date equipment and facilities. Personal responsibility for learning. Appropriately supported by the School of Dentistry, students will take a very high level of responsibility for their personal learning and progress, and for the management of their patients' care.
HOW YOU LEARN The early years of the BDS courses are predominantly student centred learning with Problem-Based Learning (PBL) supported by lectures. Whilst clinical training in subsequent years continues this method of learning, there is, in addition, small group teaching and lectures throughout the third, fourth and fifth years. Much of the clinical experience is gained with students treating patients in the different clinics in the Dental Hospital under close supervision of the staff.
HOW YOU ARE ASSESSED
02/03
The School’s assessment strategy is based around assessing the learning outcomes that underpin the development of each student’s essential clinical skills. To progress from one year to another, students must satisfy the academic AND clinical learning outcomes at the required level as stated in the assessment handbook.
The assessment strategy for the academic components of the BDS programmes adopts a varied approach including: EMI (Extended Matching Items); SBA (Single Best Answer); Short Answer; Critical Reasoning long answer; OSCE (Observed Structured Clinical Examination); and 1st, 2nd and 3rd BDS inprogramme component essays to assess critical writing skills. As the BDS programme progresses, the assessments are carefully designed and appraised so that they assess application and understanding of knowledge as applied to the clinical situation, so as to link with the essential clinical skills ethos. All summative assessments are preceded by formative assessments, after which the students receive detailed feedback. With regards to clinical activity, BDS students must pass an assessment of basic clinical competence before being allowed to use these newly acquired skills on a patient. Thereafter the assessment of clinical activity is undertaken using case reports, outreach reports and purpose designed clinical monitoring. These clinical monitoring procedures are based on the work-based assessment tools that have been validated for use in postgraduate Dentistry and Medicine. An important aspect of these assessments is their integrated nature, and their use in multiple clinics. This latter point is crucial to the fairness and robustness of the assessments. Furthermore, the system ensures that all Liverpool graduates are in the advantageous position of being able to take their activity portfolio into the work place to aid their foundation training.
KeyFacts 2010 APPLICATIONS Number of places: 107 Number of applications: 1898
RESEARCH (RAE 2008) 40% of research activity deemed world leading or internationally excellent, and a further 55% internationally recognised.
Students train on NHS patients at the Liverpool University Dental Hospital (LUDH) with over 160 dental units and access to over 60,000 patient contacts. Together with the clinical placements in our innovative outreach programme, this provides the volume and case mix necessary to offer a comprehensive experience in clinical training.
FACTS AND FIGURES 98.9% of 2009/10 graduates secured employment or went on to further study within six months of graduating.
MORE INFORMATION The School of Dentistry, University of Liverpool Dental Hospital, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5PS E: [email protected] www.liv.ac.uk/dental
1898 applications in 2011.
95% 40% of research activity deemed world leading or internationally excellent and a further 55% internationally recognised.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
RESOURCES
98.9% of 2009/10 graduates secured employment or went on to further study within six months of graduating.
Researchincontext The University of Liverpool is a research-intensive university, and academic staff in Dentistry are leading researchers in their fields. What this means for you as a student is that your learning will be informed by the very latest developments in the area. An example of a current area of research in Dentistry is Dr. Smalley’s research on the bacteria which cause periodontal (gum) disease.
04/05
Plaque contains aggregates of bacteria that grow as biofilms on the tooth surfaces. Periodontitis is a gum disease that destroys the structures supporting the teeth, including bone, and is caused primarily by Gramnegative oral anaerobic plaque bacteria which break down proteins from blood and gum tissues to gain nutrients and to promote growth. Chronic periodontitis accounts for up to 60% of tooth loss in the UK, and the annual cost of NHS periodontal therapy in 2001/2002 was £174 million.
This is of serious concern, as recent studies provide increasing evidence that periodontitis may be a risk factor for serious diseases such as: myocardial infarction and stroke; higher risk for preterm, low birth weight babies and pose threats to those with chronic diseases like: diabetes, respiratory diseases and osteoporosis. Two black-pigmenting anaerobic bacteria (BPAs), Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Prevotella intermedia, act as key agents in periodontal disease and require haem for growth. Haem enhances virulence in these organisms and is used to form the black pigment which protects the cells from attack by neutrophils in the immune system.
Importantly, BPAs are associated with active periodontal destruction, and play a pivotal ecological role in degrading host proteins to provide amino acids as energy sources for other sub-gingival bacteria. Dr. Smalley’s research revolves around understanding the chemical steps involved in generation of protective haem pigments of the BPAs, and the role these organisms play in initiation and progression of periodontal disease. It has also resulted in the discovery that pathogens other than the BPAs have the ability to produce these defensive, haem-containing layers. In addition, the work has focussed on protease (gingipain and interpain) interactions with haemoglobin and other haem-containing proteins for the purposes of establishing the molecular mechanisms of haem release.
These studies are aimed at determining which components are involved in the binding of haem and deposition of the pigment on the cell surface. Research interests also include the roles of BPAs in rapidly progressing periodontal disease in diabetic patients, in atherosclerosis and in lung infections in cystic fibrosis patients. Aspects of this original research are delivered to undergraduate students to underpin their understanding of periodontal disease and its treatment.
Aninvestment inyourfuture
QUALIFYING YOU FOR LIFE
06/07
Studying dentistry encourages students to develop valuable, transferable skills which provide a strong foundation for their careers and their continuing professional development. Key skills displayed by all of our graduates include: Communication skills (both oral and written) Critical reasoning skills Clinical skills Professionalism Teamworking Lifelong Learning
The teaching facilities at Liverpool are state-of-the-art and the Operative Skills Suite contains all the equipment that you need to practise dentistry before treating your first patients. The lecture theatres have multiple choice answer pads for revision quizzes etc. Tutors at Liverpool are very friendly and supportive of students. The patient contact early on and the atmosphere at Liverpool Dental School make it a great place to study. WILL THOMPSON BDS
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
My time as an undergraduate at Liverpool allowed me to establish the foundations of a rewarding career, gave me a group of lifelong friends and left fond memories of a fun life in a vibrant city. MICHAEL DODD DENTAL SURGERY BDS 2009
Graduate Profile
There is a wide range of career opportunities within the profession. The majority of graduates will choose general dental practice within the NHS and in the private sector. Graduates might also choose a career in the community dental service, university teaching, or the armed forces. BDS graduates can also specialise in one of the many dental specialties.
Programmedetails
Dental Surgery BDS UCAS Code: A200 Programme Length: 5 years Key Contact: Admissions Tutor E: [email protected]
Degrees at a Glance
UCAS Code
Page
Bachelor of Dental Surgery BDS
A200
09
Bachelor of Dental Surgery BDS (Graduate Entry)
A201
11
Dental Hygiene/Dental Therapy BSc (Hons)
B750
12
Foundation to Health Studies (Year 0)
N/A
13
Combined Diploma in Dental Hygiene/Dental Therapy
N/A
14
Becoming a dentist is hard work and the rewards include job satisfaction through delivering a highly professional and personal, community-based role. On successful completion of the programme you’ll be granted a Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree that is accredited by the General Dental Council. The School’s BDS programmes have been designed to provide a seamless transition for graduate dentists to postgraduate training by mapping the curriculum and assessments to the Committee of Postgraduate Dental Deans and Directors’ "A curriculum for UK Dental Foundation Programme Training”.
PROGRAMME CONTENT
08/09
The programme consists of three phases. Phase I includes the study of Basic Medical Sciences, which you will study via a ‘ProblemBased Learning’ (PBL) approach in conjunction with lectures. Clinical Dental Skills are introduced during the Special Dental Component in the second semester. Lectures in Oral Health and interactive tutorials in Communication Skills enhance this phase. Phase II occupies the second, third and fourth years of this integrated programme in which PBL, lectures, seminars, critical writing / critical appraisal skills and clinical skills acquisition go hand in hand. A wide range of topics is studied including Oral Sciences and Medicine, Oral Diseases, Medical Emergencies, Law and Ethics alongside the theoretical aspects of the various dental disciplines. Training in the practical skills of dentistry is through the supervised treatment of patients in the Dental Hospital. There is an opportunity to undertake a supervised elective project in Fourth Year.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
Phase III is the final year of study, consolidating theoretical knowledge and clinical experience in preparation for the final examination. In addition to treating patients in the Dental Hospital, students also provide treatment in local dental practices and community clinics thus facilitating a seamless transition into Foundation Training.
Year One This is the Introductory Phase of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme. It has five elements: Introduction to Basic Medical Sciences – a problem-based learning (PBL) component, equivalent to three days per week including personal study Introduction to Oral Health (Preventive Dentistry) Introduction to Operative Dentistry (via a Special Dental Component) Communication Skills Critical Writing and appraisal skills
Year Two Oral Sciences and Medicine– this is an integrated problem-based learning (PBL) component equivalent to three days per week, including plenaries, clinicopathological conferences (CPCs), a distinct human anatomy course and personal study Introduction to Clinical Practice including Radiology: ‘Core of Knowledge’, Clinical Dentistry and Materials Science in the Restorative Dentistry Department: Prosthodontics, Preventive Dentistry, Behavioural Sciences (Clinical Psychology, Primary Care), Management of Medical Emergencies Critical Writing and appraisal skills
For full entry requirements and current module details see www.liv.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses
Year Three Oral Sciences and Medicine – a continuation of the second year Problem-Based Learning (PBL) component with greater emphasis on clinical medicine (equivalent to two days per week) Restorative Dentistry including Conservation, Periodontology and Prosthodontics, and Clinical Preventive Dentistry Orthodontics and Children’s Dentistry, including Clinical Preventive Dentistry and Inhalation Sedation Oral Surgery and Oral Radiology Critical Writing and appraisal skills
Year Four
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Restorative Dentistry: including advanced Conservation, Periodontology, Prosthodontics and Clinical Preventive Dentistry Orthodontics and Children’s Dentistry: including Clinical Preventive Dentistry and Inhalational Sedation Oral Radiology, Dental Extractions and Minor Oral Surgery, Extractions under General Anaesthesia, clinical attachments to Maxillofacial surgery, IV Sedation and Special Care Dentistry, and Medical Emergencies including CPR
Year Five Clinical Dental Practice – This takes up approximately 60% of students’ time and covers: Advanced Operative Skills; Sedation for Dentistry; Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (including attachments to the Maxillofacial Unit at University Hospitals Aintree and the Accident and Emergency Department at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital; attachments to the Oral Pathology Laboratory; Oral diagnosis attachments to the LUDH Examinations Department; and revalidation in CPR Outreach placements in community dental clinics and general dental practices in Merseyside, Cheshire and East Lancashire Independent Course Work, including written case reports Law and Ethics Vocational Preparation – preparing Final Year students for the development of their careers following graduation
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
Dental Surgery BDS (Graduate Entry) UCAS Code: A201 Programme Length: 4 years Key Contact: Admissions Tutor E: [email protected] Building on the graduate’s prior knowledge, in an extended Year One the School fast-tracks graduates through the medical core of Years One and Two of the five-year programme. The programme develops such that the underlying biomedical sciences are integrated with an increasing proportion of clinical practice.
Theoretical learning is carried out in small, problem-based learning groups and is supported by lectures, together with Communication and Clinical Skills components, the Human Anatomy Resource Centre and laboratory sessions. Students will be integrated with the second year students on the five-year A200 course and will be cutting their first cavities at an early stage of the first term. At the end of Year One, students will undertake the same assessment as those completing Year Two of the five-year programme. Successful candidates will then follow the final three years of the five-year BDS programme (A200).
For full entry requirements and current module details see www.liv.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses
Foundation to Health Studies (Year 0) UCAS Code: Apply directly through School of Health Sciences Programme Length: 1 year Key Contact: Karen Madden E: [email protected]
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The University of Liverpool, in collaboration with local FE partners, has developed a Year Zero Foundation Programme for Home/EU students that leads to access onto a variety of vocational Health Studies programmes. Students wishing to study Dentistry follow a pathway that is offered at Carmel College, St Helens. Successful completion, to the specified standard, of this one-year programme ensures automatic progression onto degree programmes at the University of Liverpool in Dentistry. Please note students who have applied for Level One programmes in the School of Dentistry would not normally be considered for this route, which is specifically targeted at Home/EU adult learners with appropriate workplace experience or young people with vocational rather than A level qualifications.
PROGRAMME CONTENT This is a modular programme and successful candidates have to complete 120 Level 0 credits. Core modules include Biology for Health Studies Modules One and Two (45 credits) and Foundations of Professional Studies (15 credits). For students on the Dentistry pathway the remaining modules include Chemistry One and Two (45 credits) and a further vocational module focusing on Health and Social Care (15 credits). In all modules at Level 0 the study skills needed for independent study at undergraduate degree level are developed. Students are also introduced to a variety of teaching methods, for example, formal taught sessions, workshops, practical laboratory sessions, and a variety of assessment tasks, eg written assignments, in class data handling and written and practical examinations to provide a good grounding for vocational programmes.
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy BSc (Hons) UCAS Code: B750 Programme Length: 3 years Key Contact: Admissions Tutor E: [email protected]
The BSc in Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy is particularly attractive to applicants who aspire to treat patients but have not achieved the academic requirements for entry to a BDS programme or who do not wish to undertake such a lengthy course.
Year One This full-time programme is studied over three years, with students based at the University of Liverpool. The operative techniques training takes place in a state of the art purpose-built clinical skills laboratory. Clinical training is integrated into and complements the taught modules of the programme.
PROGRAMME CONTENT In Year One of the programme students develop core knowledge and key clinical skills which prepare them to work with patients. In Year Two students continue to develop their clinical skills through the supervised treatment of patients on clinical placements in a variety of dental environments. This provides tremendous opportunities for treating a variety of patient groups and gaining excellent clinical experiences. Alongside this students continue to develop their underpinning knowledge by studying subjects such as paediatric dentistry, restorative dentistry, radiology, behavioural science, oral surgery and learn about plaque related diseases. In Year Three students consolidate theoretical knowledge and continue to gain clinical experience on placements. Law and Ethics is studied in this year and students complete a dissertation. This relatively new programme is subject to General Dental Council approval.
Plaque Related Disease 1 Dental Hygiene Operative Technique Study Skills Basic Medical Sciences Behavioural Sciences Preventive Dentistry Dental Therapy Operative Technique Introduction to Clinical Practice
Year Two Restorative Dentistry Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology Radiology Dental Public Health Clinical Placement A Plaque Related Disease 2 Critical Thinking and Evidence Based Dentistry Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics Clinical Placement B
Year Three Dissertation Clinical Placement C Dental Research Methods Law and Ethics Clinical Placement D Primary Care Preparation Course
For full entry requirements and current module details see www.liv.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses
Combined Diploma in Dental Hygiene/Therapy UCAS Code: N/A Programme Length: 27 months Key Contact: Admissions Tutor E: [email protected] The Combined Diploma in Dental Hygiene and Therapy is a fulltime modular course which is studied over 27 calendar months, with students based at sites in Accrington, Lancaster and Liverpool (subject to SHA commissions).
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All students travel to Liverpool for some of their lectures and clinical training. This provides opportunities for interacting with students studying the BSc and also BDS students. However, the majority of time is spent at the local site. Each site has a clinical skills laboratory where students gain experience on ‘phantom heads’ before progressing to treat patients, mainly in dental practices close to their particular site. The clinical training is integrated into and complements the taught modules of the programme. The Diploma programme is particularly attractive to applicants with a background in Dental Nursing who wish to become more involved in treating patients. Successful completion of the programme leads to registration with the General Dental Council as both a Dental Hygienist and a Dental Therapist. Liverpool is continually redeveloping the course to meet the demands of an ever-changing and exciting dental profession.
Year One Foundation course ECDL Plaque Related Disease 1 Dental Hygiene Operative Technique Behavioural Sciences Preventive Dentistry Dental Therapy Operative Technique Clinical Placement 1
Year Two Restorative Dentistry Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology Radiology Dental Public Health Plaque Related Disease 2 Clinical Placement 2 Critical Thinking and Evidence Based Dentistry Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics Clinical Placement 3
Year Three Elective Clinical Placement 4
Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute for Learning and Teaching > Dentistry www.liv.ac.uk/dentistry
For full entry requirements and current module details see www.liv.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses
Applications and admissions The information that follows is a brief guide to applying for programmes of study at the University of Liverpool. For full details of our applications and admissions policy, please visit our website at www.liv.ac.uk/ug-admissions
MAKING AN APPLICATION THROUGH UCAS You must apply for all full-time programmes online through UCAS, using the online application system at www.ucas.com The University of Liverpool institution code is LVRPL L41.
WHEN TO MAKE YOUR APPLICATION For up-to-date information please visit www.ucas.com
FOUNDATION TO HEALTH STUDIES (YEAR 0) APPLICATION PROCESS
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Applications for the foundation programme are made by completing a University of Liverpool Direct Entry application form and returning it to our School of Health Sciences at the University of Liverpool. Copies of the form and guidance notes are available from the School of Health Sciences website. There are normally two closing dates for the receipt of applications, check the website for specific details. See www.liv.ac.uk/healthsciences Application forms and personal statements are screened and assessed. Applicants who meet our admissions criteria, show a strong commitment and enthusiasm for the programme and have demonstrated through their personal statement relevant commitment, interest or work experience will be short-listed for interview.
All offers are subject to satisfactory clearance by the Criminal Records Bureau. An enhanced police check is carried out on enrolment.
ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS For full current entrance requirements, see www.liv.ac.uk/studyundergraduate/courses For information on English language entry requirements contact the International Recruitment and Relations Team on T:+44 (0)151 794 6730 or E: [email protected]
MATURE STUDENTS We welcome applications from candidates who are not applying directly from school or college, who have non-standard qualifications, or who wish to have work or life experience taken into account as part of their application. Our mature students come to us through a variety of different routes. Please see the website www.liv.ac.uk/maturestudents for more information.
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES We give equal consideration to all applicants and welcome applications from students with disabilities. Please contact the Disability Support Team on T:+44 (0)151 794 4714 / 5117 / 6676, Minicom: 0151 794 4713 or E: [email protected] to discuss your support needs before you submit your UCAS application.
DISCLAIMER Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained within this brochure is accurate at the time of going to press. However, the matters covered are subject to change from time to time, both before and after a candidate’s admission.
FIND OUT MORE Accommodation: www.liv.ac.uk/accommodation Fees and finance: www.liv.ac.uk/money Life in Liverpool: www.liv.ac.uk/study/city Student support: www.liv.ac.uk/study/support
