The combination of approachable, knowledgeable staff, a modern learning environment that enables dental therapy and hygiene and dental surgery students to learn alongside each other, and Plymouth's coastal location proved to be a winning mix for Dental Therapy and Hygiene Graduate Joseph Burchell.
Joseph Burchell, Dental Therapy and Hygiene Graduate
Joe's positive experience of studying BSc (Hons) Dental Therapy and Hygiene at Plymouth has left him keen to encourage more males to apply
"Studying Dental Therapy and Hygiene (DTH) at Plymouth has been an exciting, stimulating and an unforgettable experience.
The programme offers a modern and unique way of learning, with a large emphasis on integration. You learn alongside Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students throughout the programme, and work together as a team to offer a holistic approach to patient care. Not only does this enhance your teamwork and communication skills, it gives you a real-life insight into how dental therapists and hygienists can be utilised in practice. You will learn the theory behind the practical, and with ‘spiralled learning’, you will soon become a knowledgeable, patient centred clinician.
You will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, and have the privilege of learning from staff who are experts in their field and hold immense amounts of knowledge and experience. The staff are friendly and approachable, and are always there to help you - they remember that they were once students too.
With clinics being placed around Plymouth and Exeter, this gives you an opportunity to meet patients with different dental needs.
You will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, and have the privilege of learning from staff who are experts in their field and hold immense amounts of knowledge and experience. The staff are friendly and approachable, and are always there to help you - they remember that they were once students too.
With clinics being placed around Plymouth and Exeter, this gives you an opportunity to meet patients with different dental needs.
Finding out I was the only male dental therapy and hygiene student of my cohort was quite surprising. I was aware dental therapy and hygiene was quite a female-dominated career, however I was surprised to be the only male, although I don’t feel it impacted me in any way. I integrated well and understood that teamwork is a key skill in dentistry. We all supported each other well throughout the course and I want to encourage more male applicants. Another benefit of integrating with BDS students is it gives you the opportunity to make friendships with BDS students too. This is what made Plymouth stand out to me when applying.
I come from the Midlands, so studying in Plymouth was a daunting, yet exciting change. Outside of academic study, Plymouth has so much to offer - there is something for everyone. The amazing scenery and coastline was my favourite part, with Plymouth Hoe being the perfect place to relax with friends. There are many bars and restaurants scattered throughout the city, with lots of different cuisines to enjoy and explore. Make the most of being by the sea - try out surfing, water sports and boat rides (something you may not be able to do in your hometown!).
I’m so glad I chose to study the BSc Dental Therapy and Hygiene programme at the University of Plymouth, it lives up to the outstanding reputation it holds.
I would recommend it to anyone thinking of pursuing a career in the growing field of dental hygiene and dental therapy. The course will equip you with all the skills and attributes you need to become a confident, professional clinician. I now look forward to starting my vocational training year, and feel proud to be a graduate of the University of Plymouth."
