Bachelor of Health Science (Oral Health)
Allied Health
A course by
AUT
A three-year degree preparing students for a professional career as an oral health therapist, equipping graduates to register with the Dental Council of New Zealand and provide preventive and restorative oral healthcare.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
North Campus, Auckland
It will take a total of 3 years
Core skills this course teaches
Professional Oral Health Practice
Demonstrate entry-level clinical competencies in oral health assessment, diagnosis, and management, including preventive and restorative care.
Health Promotion
Assess community oral health needs and deliver tailored oral health education and promotion activities.
Communication and Cultural Competency
Effectively communicate with patients, families, and teams across cultures, with knowledge of Māori and diverse communities.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Health Science (Oral Health) at AUT trains students for careers as oral health therapists, providing comprehensive knowledge in oral health assessment, diagnosis, management, treatment and preventive care. Students gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art simulation labs, AUT’s oral health clinic, and through community placements. The programme emphasizes clinical excellence, community health promotion, and deep understanding of factors affecting oral health across populations.
Course Content
- Lifespan Development and Communication
- Human Anatomy and Physiology I & II
- Knowledge, Enquiry and Communication
- Health and Environment or Hauora Māori
- Introduction to Oral Health Practice
- Oral Health Promotion
- Oral Health I, II, III
- Oral Biology and Pathology
- Oral Health Assessment
- Pharmacology for Professional Practice
- Methods of Research and Enquiry
- Professional Practice and Ethics
- Health Law and Policy
- Clinical training (over 1,000 hours)
- Community oral health promotion projects
- Elective papers in Māori health, social psychology, or health promotion
What you need to know first
University Entrance or equivalent
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Allied Health
Oral Health
Dental Services
Future employment opportunities might be
Oral Health Therapist in public or private practice
Oral Health Promoter
Health Educator