Dental Nursing

Top 11 For General Nursing - The University of Northampton is a top 11 institution for general Nursing in the Best UK University Guardian League table for 2026.

Our Dental Nursing Foundation Degree course provides you with a wide range of academic skills and work related competencies. On completion of the award you will be able to apply for registration with the General Dental Council.

The course is designed to recognise the increasing need for theory linked to practice, which is supported through applying the General Dental Council Standards for the Dental Team (2013) and the General Dental Council (2015) learning outcomes for Dental Nurses.

You will understand the key competencies required to work safely as a registered dental nurse and on completion of the course you will be able to put these into practice confidently. Our Dental Nursing course encourages the holistic care and treatment of dental patients and supports you in expanding your knowledge so that you are prepared for a career in Dental Nursing.

The course links theory to practice, supported through underpinning knowledge, work-based clinical skills, and placement options each year. You will be offered a range of work placements in environments such as general dental practices, hospitals and orthodontics, which will allow you to develop your competence in a range of skills before you register with the General Dental Council.

Through studying this Foundation Degree you will be able to develop careers in areas of dental nursing including radiography, oral hygiene instruction, sedation, work-based mentoring and special care dental nursing.

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost**, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information.

✱ eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information.
✱✱ eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information.

Course Modules

STAGE 1:
• Dental Nursing Practice 1 (compulsory)
• Foundations of Dental Nursing (compulsory)
• Introduction to Biomedical Science and Oral Biology
(compulsory)
• Chairside Support (compulsory)

STAGE 2:
• Dental Nursing Practice 2 (compulsory)
• Managing Patient Care (compulsory)
• Applied Biomedical Science and Oral Biology (compulsory)
• Advanced Chairside Support (compulsory)

*Students take all modules.
**Module information is quoted for 2025/26 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly.

There are various assessment methods, these include: viva voce; clinical simulated tests; presentations; assignments; electronic clinical portfolio.