Are you wondering which university can you study to be a dentist in South Africa? Or, which one is the best university in South Africa to study dentistry courses? Well, we cover all these in details on this page.

Which universities offer dentistry courses in South Africa?

If you’re interested in studying dentistry in South Africa, several universities offer comprehensive Dentistry Courses:

  1. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – Located in Johannesburg, Wits offers a Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS) program. It’s known for its strong research output and well-rounded training in all aspects of dental care.
  2. University of Pretoria – This university provides a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BChD) degree, focusing on practical skills and ethical dental practice. Pretoria’s program benefits from modern facilities and a fully equipped clinic.
  3. University of Cape Town (UCT) – While not detailed in my latest search, UCT typically offers strong health sciences programs and would be worth investigating for potential opportunities in dentistry.
  4. University of Western Cape (UWC) – Located in Bellville, Cape Town, UWC offers a Bachelor of Oral Health (BOH) and other dentistry degrees. Training is conducted across several campuses including the state-of-the-art facilities at Tygerberg Hospital and the Mitchells Plain Campus.
  5. Stellenbosch University – Known for its focus on community engagement, Stellenbosch offers a BChD degree. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to dental education.
  6. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) – Located in Pretoria, SMU offers a Bachelor of Dental Surgery with an emphasis on meeting high admission standards that include strong performance in science subjects at the school level.

When considering dentistry programs in South Africa, prospective students have several high-quality options. Each university offers unique strengths, which can be pivotal in shaping a student’s education and career in dentistry. Here, we explore these institutions in more detail, highlighting their unique offerings and comparing their programs to help you make an informed choice.

University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)

Program Overview: Wits University provides a comprehensive Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS) program. Known for its robust research output, Wits integrates practical dental skills with advanced scientific learning, making it a top choice for students looking for a research-oriented education.

Unique Features: The institution is renowned for its strong links to various health service providers and boasts internationally recognized researchers. Students gain hands-on experience in community, industrial, and public service clinics, which is essential for a rounded clinical education​​.



University of Pretoria

Program Overview: The Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BChD) at the University of Pretoria is designed to equip students with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed for effective dental practice. The program spans five years, similar to Wits, emphasizing ethical practice and clinical competence.

Unique Features: The Faculty of Dentistry at Pretoria is noted for its modern teaching facilities and a well-equipped dental clinic. This access to high-quality resources ensures that students are well-prepared for real-world dental challenges​.

University of Western Cape (UWC)

Program Overview: UWC offers a Bachelor of Oral Health (BOH) alongside its BChD degree. Training across multiple campuses, including Tygerberg Hospital and Mitchell’s Plain Campus, provides students with a rich diversity of clinical exposure and practical experience.

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Unique Features: UWC is distinct for its focus on social justice and community-based education. Its programs heavily emphasize public health and are designed to prepare students to make significant contributions to community health, particularly in underserved areas​​.

Stellenbosch University

Program Overview: Like other institutions, Stellenbosch University offers a five-year BChD program that focuses on a holistic approach to dental education. The program prepares students for various aspects of dental practice, from basic care to complex surgical procedures.

Unique Features: Stellenbosch is particularly known for its community outreach and engagement programs. These initiatives help students understand and address the oral health needs of diverse populations, fostering a strong sense of community service​.

Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)

Program Overview: SMU’s Bachelor of Dental Surgery program stands out for its selective admission process, which ensures that only students with high academic achievements and a strong foundation in the sciences are admitted.

Unique Features: The program at SMU is competitive, with an emphasis on achieving high standards in both theoretical and practical dental education. The focus is on producing dentists who are not only skilled clinicians but also capable of contributing to the scientific and ethical advancement of the field​.

Comparative Insights

When choosing between these prestigious institutions, students should consider their own career aspirations and learning preferences:

  • Research vs. Clinical Focus: Students interested in dental research might prefer Wits due to its strong research programs and facilities. In contrast, those looking to dive directly into community health might find UWC or Stellenbosch more aligned with their goals.
  • Facilities and Equipment: Universities like the University of Pretoria and Wits boast modern facilities and extensive clinical exposure, making them ideal for students who value hands-on practice with state-of-the-art equipment.
  • Community Engagement: For those interested in serving rural or underserved communities, Stellenbosch and UWC offer programs strongly integrated with community outreach.

Each university has crafted its dentistry programs to provide unique advantages, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of their communities and the demands of the healthcare sector.

Read: How Long does it take to Become a Dentist in South Africa

Best Universities for Dentistry in South Africa Based on Rankings

Here’s a guide to help you navigate through the top universities for dentistry in South Africa, based on their research performance, global rankings, and unique features.

1. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)

Why Wits?

  • Ranked #2 in Africa and #153 in the World for dentistry.
  • Known for its excellent research output and cutting-edge dental facilities.
  • Offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
  • Pro tip: Wits has a relatively competitive acceptance rate of 34%, so make sure your application stands out!

What You’ll Need:

  • A solid foundation in sciences, especially Biology and Chemistry.
  • High APS score (typically around 35-40) and strong performance in Grade 12 exams.
  • Demonstrated interest in healthcare through volunteer work or related activities.
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Further Information:

  • For more details on the application process and requirements, visit Wits Dentistry.

2. University of Pretoria

Why University of Pretoria?

  • Ranked #6 in Africa and #359 in the World for dentistry.
  • Offers state-of-the-art dental training and a robust support system for students.
  • The university’s Faculty of Health Sciences is renowned for its excellence in teaching and research.

What You’ll Need:

  • Strong academic performance in high school, particularly in science subjects.
  • APS score around 35 or higher.
  • Involvement in extracurricular activities that demonstrate a commitment to the healthcare field.

Further Information:

3. University of the Western Cape (UWC)

Why UWC?

  • Ranked #8 in Africa and #433 in the World for dentistry.
  • Known for its community-oriented approach and emphasis on serving underserved populations.
  • Offers a diverse and inclusive environment with extensive practical training.

What You’ll Need:

  • Good grades in science subjects, particularly Life Sciences and Physical Sciences.
  • APS score of 30 or above.
  • A genuine interest in public health and community service.

Further Information:

  • Visit the UWC Dentistry page for more on their programs and application process.

4. University of Stellenbosch

Why Stellenbosch?

  • Ranked #9 in Africa and #463 in the World for dentistry.
  • Offers a balance of high academic standards and practical experience in dental clinics.
  • The beautiful campus and vibrant student life are added bonuses.

What You’ll Need:

  • Excellent academic performance in high school, particularly in sciences.
  • APS score around 35.
  • Participation in science fairs or health-related projects can be advantageous.

Further Information:

5. University of Cape Town (UCT)

Why UCT?

  • Ranked #11 in Africa and #522 in the World for dentistry.
  • Known for its rigorous academic curriculum and emphasis on research.
  • Provides extensive clinical training and opportunities for specialization.

What You’ll Need:

  • High grades in science subjects and a strong overall academic record.
  • APS score of 36 or higher.
  • Demonstrated leadership and involvement in community service.

Further Information:

How to Make Your Choice

When deciding which university is the best fit for you, consider the following factors:

  • Program Strength: Look at the specific strengths of the dentistry program, including faculty expertise and available facilities.
  • Location: Consider the campus environment and how it fits with your lifestyle and preferences.
  • Support Services: Check for student support services like counseling, tutoring, and career advice.
  • Career Prospects: Research the university’s track record for job placements and alumni success.

A career in Dentistry in South Africa

Many students considering a career in dentistry in South Africa may not fully realize the unique challenges and opportunities that come with the profession in this region. Here are some key insights based on current trends and data:

  1. High Demand in Rural Areas: There is a significant demand for dental services in rural areas of South Africa. Many students might not realize the extent of the need for dental healthcare in less urbanized regions, where there are often severe shortages of healthcare professionals. This geographical distribution issue can lead to promising career opportunities but also requires a willingness to work in potentially under-resourced areas​.
  2. Economic Factors Affecting Dental Care Access: The cost of dental care in South Africa can be prohibitively high for a large portion of the population, with many South Africans lacking access to adequate dental insurance. This economic barrier means that dentists need to be prepared to work in a system where patients might delay treatment due to costs, impacting the severity and complexity of dental issues when they finally seek treatment​.
  3. The Impact of HIV/AIDS: South Africa has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates globally, which profoundly impacts dental care. Dental professionals need specialized knowledge to treat patients who are immunocompromised and may present with oral manifestations unique to HIV/AIDS. This aspect of dental care is often underemphasized in initial training and can be a challenge for new dental graduates​​.
  4. Regulatory and Ethical Challenges: South Africa’s healthcare regulatory framework is complex, and dentists must navigate various legal and ethical challenges. Issues such as compliance with national healthcare policies, managing patient consent, and adhering to data protection regulations are critical areas that might not be fully anticipated by students.
  5. Community Involvement and Education: There is a growing need for dentists to be involved in community education and preventive care programs. Many dental health problems in South Africa are exacerbated by a lack of public knowledge about oral health care. Dentists have the opportunity to lead efforts in public health campaigns, which can significantly impact the oral health landscape but requires more than just clinical skills​​.
  6. Technological Adaptation: While South Africa is advancing technologically, the adoption of new dental technologies is uneven, with more sophisticated equipment and techniques often available only in urban centers or private practices. New dentists must be adaptable, capable of working with varying levels of technology, and proactive in staying updated with global advancements in dental care .
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These insights underscore the need for prospective dental students to consider the broader social, economic, and geographic realities of practicing dentistry in South Africa. Understanding these factors can lead to a more informed and prepared workforce that is better equipped to address the country’s specific oral health challenges.