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Studying Dentistry in New Zealand as an International Student

Last updated: 23 April 2024 Dentistry

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 -

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.

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. 

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. 

Universities featured in this article:

  • University of Otago
  • Auckland University of Technology
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Leading Universities in New Zealand