The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program in China is meticulously designed to provide a comprehensive education in dentistry over a span of 5 years. Here’s a typical breakdown of the BDS program structure:

Duration

• 5 Years: The standard duration for the BDS program in China is 5 years, which includes both academic coursework and clinical training.
• Extended Duration: In some cases, the program may be extended by an additional year to include an internship or practical training, depending on the university’s requirements and regulations.

Language of Instruction

• English: Many Chinese universities offer BDS programs in English to accommodate international students. This allows students from around the world to benefit from high-quality dental education without language barriers.
• Chinese Proficiency: Although the academic program is conducted in English, proficiency in Chinese (Mandarin) is important for effective communication with patients during clinical rotations. Students are often encouraged or required to learn basic Chinese and may need to pass a Chinese language proficiency test, such as the Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK), depending on the university’s policy.

Curriculum Structure

• Pre-Clinical Phase (Years 1-2):
  • Focuses on foundational dental sciences including Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Pathology.
  • Introduction to basic dental subjects like Oral Anatomy and Histology.
  • Students also begin learning about dental materials and basic clinical skills.
• Clinical Phase (Years 3-4):
  • Provides theoretical and practical exposure to core clinical subjects such as Restorative Dentistry, Periodontics, Oral Surgery, Orthodontics, and Pediatric Dentistry.
  • Includes hands-on training in dental clinics, where students work on real cases under the supervision of experienced faculty members.
  • Laboratory work and simulation-based training help students refine their clinical techniques.
• Internship/Practical Training (Year 5):
  • Students complete an internship in affiliated dental hospitals and clinics, gaining practical experience in various dental disciplines.
  • Rotations through departments like Oral Surgery, Endodontics, Periodontics, and Prosthodontics allow students to develop essential skills in diagnosis and treatment.
  • The internship is crucial for applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings and preparing for professional practice.

Degree Award

• Degree Awarded: Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree, recognized globally for its high standards.
• Licensing Exams: Graduates must pass relevant licensing examinations in their home countries (such as the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) in the U.S., or similar exams in other regions) to practice dentistry. The global recognition of the degree ensures that graduates are well-prepared for these licensing requirements.

The BDS program in China combines rigorous academic training with practical clinical experience, making it an excellent choice for those pursuing a career in dentistry.