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Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions (Dental Therapy) (Year 0)

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Although the UCAS equal consideration date has now passed, many of our courses are still accepting applications from UK students for 2024 entry through UCAS.

The deadline for international students is 30 June 2024.

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There are three courses related to Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions (Dental Therapy) (Year 0) that you might be interested in.

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Bachelor of Science

Bachelor of Science (BSc) is a bachelor’s degree awarded for an undergraduate programme in the sciences.

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Course overview

A year zero foundation programme, designed for mature students who have typically been out of formal education for some time or who have taken non-traditional qualifications, which leads to access onto a Dental Therapy BSc programme.

Introduction

The University of Liverpool, in collaboration with local FE partners, has developed a year zero foundation programme for Home students that leads to access onto a variety of vocational Health Studies programmes. Our Foundation to Health and Veterinary Studies (Dentistry) course is for students seeking entry to to undertake the Dental Therapy BSc (B750) programme.
Students seeking entry to Dentistry will study a foundation year (year zero) at Carmel College, St Helens, about nine miles from the university campus, where the class sizes are small and the standards of academic achievement high.

This programme is specifically targeted at Home mature and non-traditional students, who typically have taken a break from studies.

Please note that we will not consider applications from prospective students who have multiple UCAS applications for a variety of programmes, as this does not demonstrate a clear commitment.

What you'll learn

  • Skills needed for independent study at undergraduate degree level
  • Undertaking a variety of learning methods and assessment tasks
  • A breadth of patient-focused practical experience in a region with a particularly diverse population
  • How to provide compassionate, evidence-based, holistic dental care to patients
  • How to continually adapt to respond to the current, as well as future, challenges in a dynamic world
  • Real-world clinical, team working, and leadership skills

Routes

Teaching Excellence Framework 2023

We’re proud to announce we’ve been awarded a Gold rating for educational excellence.

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year zero

In all modules at year zero, the study skills needed for independent study at undergraduate degree level are developed. Students are also introduced to a variety of learning methods, such as formal taught sessions, workshops and practical laboratory sessions, as well as a variety of assessment tasks, such as written assignments, in class data handling, written and practical examinations to provide a good grounding for vocational programmes.

There are some shared modules for all students, and then route specific modules to ensure the students are prepared for their chosen undergraduate programmes.

Compulsory modules

BIOLOGY FOR HEALTH STUDIES 1 (HEAL001)

Credits: 22.5 / Semester: semester 1

This first semester module is part of the one year Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions programme and aims to facilitate knowledge and understanding of the basic structure and function of the mammalian body at a cellular level which is required before students study HEAL002 Biology for Health Sciences 2 in semester 2. It is designed for all routes through the programme to include Allied Health Professions, Nursing, Medicine, Dentistry, Dental therapy and Veterinary Science.
It can be delivered either face to face or through a blended approach using small group e-lectures and e-tutorials based upon DoFE guidelines at the time of delivery. Support tutorials will be offered alongside laboratory teaching sessions onsite to promote development of practical skills relevant to the biological sciences and independent learning strategies.
The module is assessed by continuous coursework based on the practical laboratory skills and an end of semester multiple choice examination to assess knowledge of structure and function of mammalian cells.

BIOLOGY FOR HEALTH STUDIES 2 (HEAL002)

Credits: 22.5 / Semester: semester 2

This second semester module is part of the one year Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions programme and is designed to build on the knowledge and understanding of mammalian cells developed in the semester 1 HEAL001 Biology module. It is delivered to all students on the programme to include Allied Health professions, Nursing, Medicine, Dentistry, Dental Therapy and Veterinary Science routes. The module introduces the student to more complex physiological processes in mammals and to some aspects of gross mammalian anatomy. The module can be delivered either face to face or using a blended approach with some face to face and small group e-lectures, as well as on-site tutorials to include laboratory work which develops practical skills relevant to the biological sciences and promotes independent learning strategies. The mode of delivery will depend upon DoFE guidance. The module is assessed by coursework and an end of semester written examination to assess knowledge of the systems explored.

CHEMISTRY FOR MEDICINE/DENTISTRY 1 (HEAL008)

Credits: 22.5 / Semester: semester 1

This first semester module forms part of the Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions programme that has ten different professional routes leading to a clinical career. HEAL008 Chemistry for Medicine & Dentistry 1 is designed specifically for students on the Medicine, Dentistry and Dental Therapy routes and facilitates their knowledge and understanding of the basic concepts associated with the subject. It prepares students for HEAL009 Chemistry for Medicine & Dentistry 2 delivered in semester 2, further study on their chosen professional degree and supports application in their clinical practice eg when prescribing medicines. The material can be delivered either face to face or through a blended approach using lectures/e-lectures, tutorial/e-tutorials and on-site practical sessions in the laboratory to develop practical skills . The delivery mode is subject to change and DoFE guidance.
The module has two elements of assessment: on-going coursework comprised of a series of reports based upon onsite laboratory tasks, and an end of semester unseen written examination.

CHEMISTRY FOR MEDICINE/DENTISTRY 2 (HEAL009)

Credits: 22.5 / Semester: semester 2

This second semester module forms part of the Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions programme that has ten professional routes leading to a vocational degree and a clinical career. The module builds on HEAL008 Chemistry for Medicine and Dentistry 1 delivered in semester 1 and explores more complex chemical interactions. It is designed specifically for the Medicine, Dentistry and Dental Therapy routes.
The module facilitates knowledge and understanding of the foundations of Chemistry and expands on the chemical concepts previously introduced, as well as introducing new more complex aspects associated with the subject. The material can be delivered either face to face or using a blended approach through lectures/e-lectures, tutorials/e-tutorials and on-site practical sessions in the laboratory. The mode of delivery will follow DoFE guidelines in place at the start of the academic year.
This module has two elements of assessment: on-going Coursework comprising a series of practical experiments written up as lab reports presented in a log book, and an end of semester unseen written examination .

FOUNDATIONS OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES (HEAL005)

Credits: 15 / Semester: whole session

This module forms part of the Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions programme and is delivered over both semester one and semester two. All students take this module, apart from those on the Veterinary Science route who have their own professional studies module (HEAL012). The foundation route has ten health professional pathways leading to a vocational career where an understanding of health and social care is essential. This module is designed to introduce the Allied Health, Nursing, Medicine, Dental and Dental Therapy students to the health and social care environment and the issues currently faced within it. In addition it supports the development of study skills that will support students throughout their degree and into their professional careers.
The module is partly assessed through a reflective portfolio which can be carried forward throughout their degree and into clinical practice. Students will also create an assessed presentation on a topic that interests them and deliver it to their peers. This is an essential skill in health related careers where presentation of research findings at conferences is common.
Relevant topics to support development of the portfolio and presentation are delivered through interactive lectures, small group discussions, seminars and practical sessions.
The module contains compulsory elements such as a background to reflective practice and the use of portfolios; reflective assignments based upon the student’s own learning experiences and a short essay exploring the health and social care environment through research of published work. This final task demonstrates the students research skills that are essential moving forward in their studies.
A formative assessment opportunity is in place at the end of semester one to ensure a student has feedback on their work to feed forward into semester two and aid completion. The portfolio is submitted in electronic format using the University of Liverpool electronic platforms. The presentation is delivered either face to face or via a virtual learning platform.

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE FOR MEDICINE/DENTISTRY (HEAL010)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This first semester module forms part of the Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions programme that has ten professional routes leading to a vocational degree and a professional clinical career. It is designed specifically for students taking the Medicine, Dentistry and Dental therapy routes on the programme.
As a subject discipline, Health and Social Care combines elements of sociology, psychology, biology, nutrition, law and ethics, and is therefore a relevant area to include in this programme.
The module complements information delivered in HEAL001 Biology 1 by giving additional context within the UK healthcare provision and linking to the other elements described above. It aims to help students understand issues such as what ‘health’ is, how it can be assessed/measured, and the many biological, psychological, environmental and ethical factors that can influence the health of individuals in a negative or positive way. In addition the principles and importance of National Health Promotions in educating people to change behaviours for the betterment of their health are explored.
It can be delivered either face to face or using a blended approach through on-site interactive lectures and e-lectures using a suitable platform such as Zoom.
It is assessed by Coursework and a presentation.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Language study

Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:

  • A dedicated languages degree
  • A language as a joint or major/ minor degree
  • Language modules (selected degrees)
  • Language classes alongside your studies

Read more about studying a language

Your experience

The School of Health Sciences draws on over 100 years of teaching delivered by dedicated staff with real-world, practical experience. We are a hub for an extensive network of professionals, academics and researchers, so you can be confident that a degree from us will prepare you for a lifelong career in healthcare services.

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Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Careers and employability

Studying to become a dental professional encourages students to develop valuable, transferable skills which provide a strong foundation for their careers and their continuing professional development.

You will have gained a qualification that meets the Government’s criteria for ‘fitness for purpose’ and ‘fitness for practice’ as well as developing transferable skills such as communication, information technology, problem solving and teamwork.

There are a wide range of career opportunities within the profession.

You can look to explore careers in:

  • National Health Service
  • Social Services
  • Private sector
  • University teaching
  • Armed forces

98% of dentistry students at the University of Liverpool find their main activity after graduation meaningful.

Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, how to pay, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Foundation year fee £7,500
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
This course is not available to international students.

Following the foundation years, standard course fees apply.

Fees are correct for the academic year 2024/25. Please note that the Year Abroad fee also applies to the Year in China.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessment, operating University facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.

Additional costs

There are additional study costs to consider, such as scrubs replacements, travel costs for placements and Occupational Health Clearance assessment.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

There are additional study costs to consider, such as scrubs replacements, travel costs for placements and Occupational Health Clearance assessment.

Two pairs of scrub suits will be provided free of charge. Replacement of the whole suit will incur a cost of approximately £25 plus a delivery fee. Students are responsible for laundering their own scrub suits (the NHS recommends laundering clinical uniforms at 60°). Scrub suits should be clean and ironed at all times. Students may carry out tailoring alterations to their issued scrub suits to meet personal requirements.

Year One

  • Lab Coats: Students will be given their lab coats for use in the Human Anatomy Resource Centre free of charge.

Year Three

  • Placement costs: All students will undertake a placement in Year Three and will be required to fund their own travel costs. All placements are within 35 miles of the School of Dentistry and are accessible on public transport. A return trip is estimated to cost between £5-£15. Student concessions are also available from local travel companies.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to provide tuition fee discounts and help with living expenses while at university.

Check out our Liverpool Bursary, worth up to £2,000 per year for eligible UK students. Or for international students, our Undergraduate Global Advancement Scholarship offers a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for eligible international students starting an undergraduate degree from September 2024.

Discover our full range of undergraduate scholarships and bursaries

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom. Change it here

Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

T levels

T levels are not currently accepted.

GCSE 5 GCSEs at a minimum grade 5 (C) to include Maths; English Language, Single science to include biology and /or Chemistry or (dual; combined Science). Applied GCSE Science and pending GCSE grades will not be accepted.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

Students currently studying BTEC level 3 will not be considered; BTEC level 2 will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE

International Baccalaureate

Applicants currently studying for International Baccalaureate will not be considered

Irish Leaving Certificate Applicants currently studying for Irish Leaving Certificate will not be considered
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher

Applicants currently studying for Scottish Highers will not be considered

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Applicants currently studying for Welsh Baccalaureate will not be considered
Graduate application

Applicants with a previous degree at a minimum of a 2:1 Hons degree but do not meet criteria for direct entry to the BSc degree programme will be considered if they are returning to education following a break.

Access Applicants currently studying for an Access Diploma will not be considered. Mature students who have recently studied an access course (that is not eligible for direct entry) or offering work- related qualifications will be considered.
Declaration of criminal background

Applicants may be expected to complete either a Declaration of Criminal Background or have a full Disclosure Barring Service check as part of their application.

Disability information

Additional support is given to students who have declared a disability on their UCAS application.

Work Experience Requirements

Evidence of knowledge and insight into the profession with emphasis on learning from work experience/observation is required. NB: Further detail on specific work based experience requirements is available on the relevant degree Programme page.

International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our direct entry requirements. Although there is no direct Foundation Certificate route to this course, completing a Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, can guarantee you a place on a number of similar courses which may interest you.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.

Alternative entry requirements

Changes to Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions (Dental Therapy) (Year 0)

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

7 June 2022: New course pages

New course pages launched.