Dentistry is a rigorous and academically highly demanding program in the healthcare sector. The course revolves around treating, diagnosing, and preventing oral health care problems. If you plan to pursue a career in this field, a dentistry course in New Zealand for international students can be highly beneficial. The course comes in various specialisations that study different aspects of oral health and hygiene, ranging from one to three years. A career in dentistry in New Zealand includes orthodontist, dental hygienist, dental technician, and journalist specialising in dental health.
If you want to study in New Zealand, why not arrange a free consultation with SI-Global today? Our educational consultants will discuss your study options in New Zealand and help you apply.
Dentistry in New Zealand - Highlights
Course-type |
Full-time |
Course duration |
One to three years |
English proficiency test requirements |
IELTS- 6.5| TOEFL- 95 | PTE - 64 |
Additional requirements |
Clinical work experience (in some cases) |
Average fees |
$9535 - $24,315 |
Average Salary |
$78,993 - $103,638 |
Career prospects |
Dental assistant, orthodontist, dental hygienist, dental technician, and veterinary dentist |
Why Study Dentistry in New Zealand?
Dentistry plays a significant role in medicine and offers graduates many opportunities. Here are some interesting facts about why you should choose to study dentistry in New Zealand -
- New Zealand universities and institutions are globally recognised and provide a great academic experience for international students.
- The dentistry course curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in dental medicine.
- Dentistry contributes widely to the country’s economy and is one of the highest-paying professions in the medical industry.
Study Levels of Dental Courses in New Zealand
Dental courses in New Zealand are available at three degree levels:
Degree |
Popular course/specialisation |
Undergraduate dentistry courses in New Zealand |
Bachelor of Health Science (Oral Health) and Bachelor of Dental Surgery |
Postgraduate Dentistry in New Zealand |
Master of Oral Health and Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry |
Doctorate Dentistry in New Zealand |
Doctor of Clinical Dentistry, Doctor of Philosophy in Dentistry Thesis (Non-Clinical) |
- Eligibility requirements
When applying for study abroad, international students must look at the entry requirements of a specific university. It is the most crucial section in the application and admission process. Dental study in New Zealand has particular criteria for international students.
Bachelor’s Dentistry degree |
Intermediate level exam with a minimum of 50% and passing English proficiency test |
Master’s Dentistry degree |
An undergraduate degree in dentistry or other dental studies |
English language requirements |
IELTS- 6.5 | TOEFL -95 | PTE -64 |
Additional requirements |
Clinical work experience |
Visa |
New Zealand Student Visa |
Best Universities for Dentistry in New Zealand
Leading dentistry schools in New Zealand include:
University of Otago
Established in 1869, the University of Otago is one of the top-ranked universities in New Zealand. Ranking 206th in the QS World University 2024, the university boasts of its student satisfaction and produces globally employable graduates. According to the QS Subject Rankings, the Faculty of Dentistry ranks globally in the top 50 dental schools. The courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels include dental technology, dentistry, and oral health.
- Popular course: Bachelor of Dental Technology (BDentTech)
- Course duration: five years
- Average course fees: $44,217
Auckland University of Technology
Established in 2000, Auckland University of Technology (Oral Health Department) offers an oral health degree that is comprehensive in education and hands-on practical experience. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines, such as Bachelor of Health Science, Graduate Certificate in Health Science, and Master of Health Practice. During the course, you will learn about human anatomy and its role in oral health therapy practice, explore health research methods, and undertake clinical activities.
- Popular course: Bachelor of Health Science (Oral Health)
- Course duration: three years
- Average course fees: $46,746
Top Master's Courses in Dentistry in New Zealand
The list of top postgraduate programs available in dentistry in New Zealand include:
Subject/Course |
University |
Course duration |
MDent Master of Dentistry |
University of Otago |
One-year |
DipGrad endorsed in Dentistry |
University of Otago |
One-year |
Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry (PGDipClinDent( |
University of Otago |
One-year |
Master of Dental Technology (MDentTech) |
University of Otago |
Two years |
Postgraduate Diploma in Community Dentistry |
University of Otago |
One year |
Cost of Studying Dentistry in New Zealand for International Students
Dentistry course fees in New Zealand depend on the credits and specialisation you apply for.
Degree levels |
Average course fees |
Bachelor's degree programs |
$22,000 - $50,000 |
Postgraduate degree programs |
$26,000 - $37,000 |
Doctorate programs |
$6500 - $9000 |
Scholarships for Dentistry Courses
Scholarship name |
University |
Award value |
Donna-Rose McKay Entrance Scholarship |
University of Otago |
$6,000 |
Otago International Excellence Scholarship |
University of Otago |
$10,000 |
Job Opportunities after Studying Dentistry
As a dentist in New Zealand, you can work in many different positions, such as solo partnership or private practice, hospitals, defence, or clinics. Dentists usually work full-time but can also opt for part-time or shift work. Popular careers after dentistry in New Zealand are dental technicians, dental officers (dentists), lecturers, dental assistants, orthodontists, and maxillofacial surgeons.
The average pay scale of a dentist graduate in New Zealand is $192,232 annually ($98.58 hourly). Graduates at an entry-level position can make up to $108,000 annually, while the most experienced employees with more than ten years of experience can earn up to $244,000 annually.
Study Dentistry in New Zealand
If you want to study in New Zealand, arrange a free consultation with SI-Global today. Our educational consultants will discuss your study options and help you apply.