Foundation Degree in Dental Technology - FdSc
Course Overview
Course Content
The programme is offered in a three-year part-time study low attendance mode and leads to a Foundation Degree in Dental Technology. Much of the practical experiential learning is carried out during work-based learning at the student's place of employment. This arrangement allows an opportunity to integrate technical procedures and allows for complete analysis, reflection and recapitulation of procedures undertaken within the course and at the workplace. There are assessment items within the modules delivered during this time that relate to the work-based learning gained by students, case studies, competence report, etc. Students undertake work for patients whilst at the place of work-based learning.
There are 24 modules in total and all modules are compulsory. Study is undertaken at two levels. Students can only progress from the first level to the second level upon successful completion of all modules in the preceding level.
The syllabus is structured to include the General Dental Council's requirements for registration as a Dental Technician.
Year One:
- Dental Technology Techniques
- Dental Materials Science A
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Complete Dentures 1
- Professional Practice 1
- Work Based Learning 1
Year Two:
- Removable Partial Dentures 1
- Complete Dentures 2
- Cast Restorations
- Dental Materials Science 2
- Work Based Learning 2
Year Three
- Professional Practice 2
- Removable Partial Dentures 2
- Orthodontics (Removable appliances)
- Ceramic Restorations
- Work Based Learning 3
Career Potential
Successful students find employment in private practice, commercial or health service laboratories. Students may also choose to progress to further study.
Entry Requirements
Applicants should have one A level or equivalent qualification and be employed as a trainee within a dental laboratory.
Mature students without these formal qualifications but who have relevant experience are actively encouraged to apply.
Key Facts
Campus: Llandaff
School: Cardiff School of Health Sciences
Course Length:
Three years part-time.
Attendance for this programme is by a low attendance mode. This will necessitate students accessing video conferencing over a PC with a broadband connection and have available a work-based qualified mentor. About 6 attendances per year will be required with a commitment in time of about 6 hours per week of the academic year.
Assessment: Students are continuously assessed throughout the course through assignments and practical and theoretical tests. Work based assessment is an integral part of the course and the mentors responsible for delivering the course at the work place have regular contact with the Cardiff Met course team and liaise over delivery and assessment issues.
Selection Procedure:
Initial selection is carried out in the work place by employed staff of commercial or health service dental laboratories. Cardiff Met entry requirements are stated above.