Bachelor of Oral Health in Oral Health Therapy - Griffith University

TEL: 0207 193 7932   This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Why choose this program?

You will develop the knowledge and skills to work as both a dental therapist and a dental hygienist.

The program includes training in communication, public health and nutrition, as well as research skill development. Academic studies are combined with hands-on experience, in research and community clinical work, and at the laboratory and clinic in Griffith University's new world-class Centre for Medicine and Oral Health next to the Gold Coast Hospital. You will also have the opportunity to develop a research project in your chosen area of interest.

Griffith's dental and oral health students gain hands-on experience in the public clinic.

Attendance

As a full-time student, you will generally attend up to 40 hours of scheduled classes per week throughout the semester. Classes may be scheduled during the day and evening throughout the week.

Students may take a reduced study load only under special circumstances and only in year 1. This is because students are obliged to maintain recency of clinical practice in order to develop complex clinical and technical skills throughout this program . Undertaking a reduced study load requires approval from the Dean. A reduced study load may also affect entitlement to Centrelink benefits. International students must maintain a full-time study load.

Deferment of this program is not allowed.

Due to the need for students to develop complex clinical and technical skills throughout this program, extensive hands-on exposure to clinical/laboratory environments is required. As a result, all DOH courses from the start of Year 2 of this program will extend beyond the standard 13-week teaching semester (i.e. commencing earlier and extending later than the standard 13-week semester). Students are advised that the timetables for these courses will not exceed 21 teaching weeks per semester (i.e. the academic year will not exceed 42 teaching weeks in duration).

Exact dates over which these extended courses will run will be published on a semester-by-semester basis within the University Timetable.

You are required to undertake clinical placements or clinical research placements. Placements are at locations throughout Australia. For further information please contact the School of Dentistry and Oral Health. 

Professional recognition

On graduation, you will be eligible to apply for registration with the Dental Board of Queensland.

Career opportunities

As a dental therapist you can work in both the public and private sectors, providing preventive and operative dentistry services to school-age children. You are also qualified to own your own dental surgery. As a dental hygienist you can work in a dental practice, undertaking preventive and cosmetic clinical duties to maintain healthy teeth and promote oral health. Salaries range upwards from $40 000 as a new graduate working in Queensland Health. Higher salaries can be obtained in the private sector. Both dental therapists and dental hygienists may pursue a career in academic teaching, research and oral health promotion.

Professional practice requirements

Working with children suitability check

All students in this program are required to undergo the Working with Children Suitability Check and be issued with a Blue Card (Suitability card) before they undertake practice in professional settings. Further information may be obtained from the Practice Coordinator and from your local Student Centre.

Your Blue Card application can be obtained from the Commission for Children and Young People and Child Guardian website. Completed forms can be lodged at your local Student Centre.