Accredited by The Royal College of Surgeons of England, registered charity number 212808
Athena Swan Silver
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Postgraduate taught programme
MSc
Oral Surgery
Build confidence and competence in oral surgery with this practical MSc for working dental practitioners. Led by consultants and specialists, it combines simulated and clinical training with theory to develop decision-making skills.Consultant‑led, hands‑on clinical training
Each module provides expert consultant and specialist-led supervision, with dedicated clinical time to support the demonstration, assimilation and practice of taught surgical techniques.
Flexible pathway with staged qualifications
Design your own learning journey: earn a PgCert with 60 credits, a PgDip with 120, or complete the full 180‑credit MSc – all while balancing existing work commitments.
High‑quality teaching from expert clinicians
Learn from an experienced team of specialist oral surgeons, with close supervision, supported by research‑informed teaching and real‑world case preparation.
Details
Year 1
The first year focuses on developing core knowledge and practical skills in minor oral surgery. You will build confidence in surgical techniques, including simple and surgical tooth extractions, while learning to manage common complications. The modules also introduce the care of medically compromised patients, alongside key concepts in dentoalveolar trauma and oral mucosal disease, including their diagnosis and management.
Core modules
MOS711
Foundations of Oral Surgery
MOS713
Oral Surgery in Practice
This module enables students to develop their skills and knowledge in minor oral surgery (MOS) as well as introducing the further concepts of surgical extractions, the management of surgical complications and management of the medically compromised patient. It provides an introduction to dentoalveolar trauma and oral mucosal disease diagnosis and management.
Year 2
Consolidate and extend your oral surgery expertise by managing increasingly complex clinical scenarios. Through the Enhanced Oral Surgery in Practice modules, you will build on prior knowledge and skills to undertake advanced minor oral surgery procedures, including the assessment and management of facial pain, unerupted teeth, soft tissue surgery, periradicular surgery, implant placement, and oral surgery related to orthodontic care. The year also develops confidence in treating anxious patients while strengthening critical thinking through evidence appraisal, research awareness, and the formulation of clinically relevant research questions to inform practice and project design.
Core modules
MOS723
Enhanced Oral Surgery in Practice 1
This module builds on existing knowledge and newly acquired skills to introduce more complex minor oral surgery treatment options including the diagnosis and management of facial pain, management of unerupted teeth, soft tissue surgery and the management options available for the anxious patient undergoing minor oral surgery (MOS).
MOS724
Enhanced Oral Surgery in Practice 2
This module augments knowledge and newly acquired skills from previous modules and applies this knowledge and skill in more complex clinical situations. Further specialised procedures are introduced including periradicular surgery; implant placement and minor oral surgery related to orthodontic treatment. The module will develop the learner’s abilities in critical evidence appraisal and clinical question formulation in relation to research and project design.
Final year
In the final year, you will undertake an academic module to develop evidence-based dentistry skills including: clinical question formulation; evidence acquisition, appraisal and synthesis; clinical decision-making and critical thinking skills. You will design your own research question, relevant to your programme of study and conduct a rigorous evidence synthesis project. The successful completion of this module will equip you with evidence-based dentistry skills, allowing you to remain up-to-date and to critically evaluate new research.
More details about our modules:
Core modules
DIS734
Dental Programmes Masters Project
60 credits
On this module, students will design, plan and undertake a review of the evidence relevant to their chosen field of study. Students will specify a research question, make methodological decisions and synthesise the available literature.
100% Coursework
Up to £10,000 of NHS funding available for your studies
Funding from the NHS via Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) is available to support dentists working in NHS roles within these ICB areas to undertake postgraduate training at the University of Plymouth.
Your postgraduate options
Explore our range of postgraduate taught dentistry programmes and find the pathway that best aligns with your professional interests and long‑term career ambitions.
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Careers, industry and research
A career in oral surgery offers dental practitioners the opportunity to deliver advanced clinical care while expanding their professional scope and responsibility. This programme prepares graduates to progress into enhanced practice roles in primary care, private practice or hospital-based settings by developing advanced diagnostic ability, treatment planning expertise and refined surgical skills under consultant and specialist supervision.
With extensive patient-facing clinical experience, CBCT accreditation at diploma level and training grounded in critical appraisal of the evidence base, graduates are well equipped to manage complex minor oral surgery cases safely and confidently, support referral pathways, and deliver high-quality, reflective and evidence-informed care throughout their professional careers.
Reputation and industry recognition
This programme is accredited by The Royal College of Surgeons of England, helping strengthen your professional credibility in the industry.
With Plymouth ranked as a top UK university choice* in the Guardian's league table of the best universities for dentistry in 2026 – based on student experience, feedback and career outcomes – your qualification is recognised and respected across the sector.
*Ranked 6th in the UK
Dentistry is so much more than just teeth – Peninsula gave me a strong dental foundation and now I run my own practice.
Liz Eilertsen, BDS Dental Surgery and MSc Oral Surgery graduate, used her skills and further study to set up a new and thriving practice in a part of the UK deprived of dental care.
Benefit from specialist facilities
You’ll benefit from access to the Peninsula Dental School’s specialist facilities in Exeter, designed to closely reflect the realities of modern clinical practice and support advanced professional development.
Only a couple of hours from London, our Exeter facility's progressive clinical environment is equipped with features such as Simulated Dental Learning Environments, Life Sciences Resource Centres, extensive clinical bays, dedicated surgeries and in-house dental technical laboratories. This blend of advanced simulation, real patient interaction and multidisciplinary teamwork provides an ideal setting for deepening your expertise and enhancing the quality of care you deliver in your own practice.
Learn from experienced dental professionals
Your learning is guided by experienced consultants and respected visiting clinicians, giving you insight into current industry standards and best practice. This expert teaching also helps you refine problem‑solving and decision‑making skills that are key in modern dental care.
Miss Eithne Fyfe
Clinical Associate Professor (Education) and Consultant in Oral Surgery
Lorna Burns
Associate Head of Postgraduate Taught
Miss Jennifer Sawyer
Associate Professor & Consultant in Oral Surgery
Meet the Head of the Peninsula Dental School
“With our state-of-the-art facilities we are committed to producing dentists and dental therapists with clinical skills of the highest order and a strong sense of social awareness.”
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification – it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options – including part-time and January start dates – you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student
Your Plymouth community
At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer – get involved, stay connected and make the most of your time here.
Your societies
The Peninsula Dental Society 'DentSoc' is the perfect place for postgraduate students to explore, innovate and connect. The student-run society offers revision sessions, volunteering opportunities and a variety of cultural and social events throughout the year.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Part-time study
| Academic Stage P/T delivery only | Fee per 60 credits 2026–27 | Fee per 60 credits 2027–28 |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 (certificate) | £10,600 | £10,950 |
| Stage 2 (diploma) | £10,600 | £10,950 |
| Stage 3 (dissertation) | £5,300 | £5,460 |
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Part-time study
| Academic Stage P/T delivery only | Fee per 60 credits 2026–27 | Fee per 60 credits 2027–28 |
|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 (certificate) | £10,600 | £10,950 |
| Stage 2 (diploma) | £10,600 | £10,950 |
| Stage 3 (dissertation) | £5,300 | £5,460 |
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate student at Plymouth, there may be funding options available to you, including postgraduate master's loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds, that can help towards costs.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
NHS Dental Postgraduate Bursary
Funding from the NHS via Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) is available to support dentists working in NHS roles within these ICB areas to undertake postgraduate training at the University of Plymouth.
These NHS-funded bursaries are intended to help develop the delivery of more advanced dental care across the South West.
A bursary of £5,000 per year may be awarded for the first two years only and can be used towards course fees for the following three-year part-time programmes:
MSc Endodontics , MSc Oral Surgery,
MSc Periodontology and
MSc Restorative Dentistry .
Applications for the NHS bursary must be submitted by 31 October 2026 for courses starting in January 2027.
Eligibility criteria apply, and applicants should ensure they have reviewed the full
terms and conditions before applying. Interested applicants must complete the bursary application form using the link provided and submit a separate application to the University of Plymouth for the chosen course.
If successful, the NHS bursary funding will be paid directly to the University on the applicant’s behalf.
. NHS Dental Postgraduate Bursary application form
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
As a graduate, you should be in practice (Dentistry) in the UK whilst undertaking the programme and hold full General Dental Council (GDC) registration as a dental practitioner. You should also have full professional indemnity and normally at least two years of clinical experience. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis, subject to fulfilling the above requirements.
If you meet the above entry requirements you will be required to attend an interview.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
The University of Plymouth is committed to providing equality for all irrespective of age, disability, ethnicity (including race, colour and nationality), gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity and will work to ensure that all students, employees and visitors, as well as those who apply or seek to apply to work or study at the University, are treated fairly and are not subjected to discrimination by the University on any of these grounds (University Equality and Diversity Policy, Revised April 2011).
We welcome applications from people with disabilities who will be considered on the same academic grounds as other potential students. Considerations about individual needs arising from disability will be made separately, and we will strive to meet an individual disabled student's needs wherever possible and in consultation with Disability Services.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
4644
4644
Duration
3 years
Course type
Part-time
Study location
Exeter
Exeter
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
4644
4644
Duration
3 years
Course type
Part-time
Study location
Exeter
Exeter
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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