Implantology (MSc)
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode: Full time

Open day
Find out more about studying here as a postgraduate at our next Open Day.
Why study this course
Explore the science and clinical practice of implantology, and develop the clinical skills needed to perform the full spectrum of contemporary implant practice, including all forms of bone and soft-tissue grafting.
34th in the world
We're ranked 34th in the world for dentistry (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
Top 4 in the UK
We're ranked in the top 4 in the UK for dentistry (The Complete University Guide 2025).
Clinical exposure
We're based in a working dental hospital, and have strong links with the National Health Service (NHS), so you'll have access to a range of patients with diverse clinical needs.
Directly manage patients
You’ll directly manage patients requiring fixed and removable implant retained prostheses, under expert supervision in a supportive clinical environment.
Our one-year programme explores the science and clinical practice of implantology and will offer you the clinical skills and experience needed to perform contemporary implant practice, including bone and soft-tissue grafting.
In the first part of the course, you’ll explore taught modules in research methodologies, cellular and molecular biology and restorative dentistry. The clinical implantology module, where you’ll have the opportunity to treat patients, runs throughout the year. You’ll be taught by supportive, inspiring academics and clinicians who are leaders in their respective fields.
The second half of the course will see you undertake a clinical or laboratory-based research project in an area of interest to you, helping you develop skills in collecting and analysing data, and interpreting and reporting research findings. Several of our previous student projects have even been published in peer-reviewed journals, including Scientific Translational Medicine and Nature Biofilms and Microbiome.
Thanks to our strong relationship with the NHS, and our home being a working Dental Hospital, you’ll gain clinical exposure within your first month on the programme, managing patients requiring fixed and removable implant-retained prostheses.
As a graduate of this programme, you’ll be equipped with the clinical skills and knowledge to deliver the best possible care to your patients and achieve your professional goals.

MSc Implantology of Cardiff University offers advanced knowledge of surgical and restorative Implantology in a friendly and well-equipped environment. It is an experience of a lifetime, that I totally recommend to every dentist!
Where you'll study
School of Dentistry
We are the only dental school in Wales, providing unique and important leadership in dental research, teaching and patient care.
Admissions criteria
In order to be considered for an offer for this programme you will need to meet all of the entry requirements. Your application will not be progressed if the information and evidence listed is not provided.
With your online application you will need to provide:
- A copy of your degree certificate and transcripts which show you have achieved a primary dental qualification (BDS/DDS or equivalent).
- An academic reference which demonstrates your suitability for the programme. References should be signed and dated.
- A clinical reference to evidence 2 years’ full-time equivalent post-qualification experience. References should be signed, dated and less than six months old at the time you submit your application.
- An up-to-date CV which details your full education and work history.
- Evidence that you are a registered dental practitioner such as a professional registration record or certificate.
- A personal statement which describes your clinical experience, and a statement of understanding that you agree to comply with the University’s and Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust’s Occupational Health clearance including Exposure Prone Procedures (EPP).
You are expected to have completed or be about to complete any current training or education course and be available to study for the full duration of the course, full-time in Cardiff.
Applicants with relevant work or professional experience following graduation are encouraged to apply.
English language requirements
The English language requirement for this programme is set by the regulatory body, the General Dental Council (GDC). In line with GDC guidelines, acceptable English language evidence includes:
- IELTS with an overall score of 7.0 with 6.5 in all subskills;
- A primary dental qualification which has been taught (in its entirety) in a country on the UKVI list of exceptions and is no more than 2 years old prior to the start of the programme;
- A pass in a language test for registration with a regulatory authority in a country where the first language is English, no longer than 2 years prior to the start of the programme;
- Evidence of 2 years’ experience of practising in a country where the first language is English.
If you provide evidence other than those listed above, it must meet the criteria set out by the GDC (ie; the evidence must be robust, recent and readily verifiable by the GDC).
You must meet the English language requirement at the point you submit your application, pending tests are not accepted.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is 31 December each year for entry the following September. If you submit an application after this date, we will only consider it if places are still available.
Selection process
We will review your application and if you meet the entry requirements, we will invite you to an interview. Following interview, offers will be made to the highest scoring candidates.
Find out more about English language requirements.
Applicants who require a Student visa to study in the UK must present an acceptable English language qualification in order to meet UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) requirements.
Criminal convictions
You will be required to complete a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check if your application is successful. If you are applying from certain countries overseas, a Certificate of Good Conduct may be required.
If you have a relevant criminal conviction, this will be stated in the check and may affect your ability to enrol on the course. Applicants who are on the barred list should be aware that applying to this course is likely to be considered a criminal offence.
Course structure
This full-time, one-year course will see you explore a range of taught modules, gain clinical exposure managing patients, and undertake a clinical or laboratory-based research project.
The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum. Final modules will be published one month ahead of your programme starting.
Module title | Module code | Credits |
---|---|---|
Cellular and Molecular Biology | DET028 | 30 credits |
Concepts in Restorative Dentistry and their Applications to Implant Dentistry | DET046 | 40 credits |
Clinical Implantology | DET047 | 30 credits |
Statistical Methodology | MET212 | 20 credits |
Dissertation Implantology | DET029 | 60 credits |
The University is committed to providing a wide range of module options where possible, but please be aware that whilst every effort is made to offer choice this may be limited in certain circumstances. This is due to the fact that some modules have limited numbers of places available, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have minimum student numbers required before they will run, to ensure that an appropriate quality of education can be delivered; some modules require students to have already taken particular subjects, and others are core or required on the programme you are taking. Modules may also be limited due to timetable clashes, and although the University works to minimise disruption to choice, we advise you to seek advice from the relevant School on the module choices available.
Learning and assessment
How will I be taught?
You will be taught via lectures, seminars, tutorials, treating patients on clinic and self-directed learning.
As the taught modules are compulsory and will benefit your development in implantology, you are expected to attend all lectures, seminars, clinical attachments, and other timetabled activities.
How will I be assessed?
The taught modules are assessed through; extended essays, oral presentations, statistical assignments, clinical workplace-based assessments and library and information skills assignments.
To ensure you’re continually developing and improving, you will receive written feedback on all assessments, as well as oral feedback on assessed oral and poster presentations.
How will I be supported?
You will find useful course materials on Learning Central, which will complement your independent study. You’ll also receive supervision during your dissertation period and be allocated a personal tutor who will support you throughout your studies.
Our dedicated Student Support Teams will also be on hand to support you with all aspects of your student life, from health and wellbeing to career planning, finances, and accommodation
What skills will I practise and develop?
The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you will develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.
On successful completion of our Programme you will be able to:
Knowledge & Understanding
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the scientific principles underpinning dental implantology, including biomaterials, osseointegration and tissue engineering.
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the indications, contraindications, and limitations of implant therapy, including patient assessment, treatment planning, surgical placement, and prosthetic rehabilitation.
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of research evidence and its application to clinical decision-making in implantology to assess the validity and relevance of innovations in implant techniques and technologies.
- Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the interrelationship between implantology and restorative dentistry and its sub-disciplines, including ethical and professional responsibilities in professional practice.
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the implant treatment planning process, incorporating knowledge of psychosocial factors that influence patient care.
Intellectual Skills
- Critically evaluate and synthesise complex information, including clinical data, scientific literature, and emerging technologies, to support evidence-based decision-making in implantology.
- Apply advanced problem-solving skills to design, implement, and adapt implantology treatment plans in response to dynamic patient needs and clinical challenges.
- Independently design and conduct an independent research project in implantology in line with professional and academic standards.
- Assess risks and benefits systematically in implant treatment scenarios, incorporating scientific, technical, and patient-centered considerations into decision-making.
- Apply advanced reasoning to ensure compliance with regulatory and professional standards.
Professional Practical Skills
- Perform diagnostic assessments, treatment planning, and surgical and prosthetic procedures in implantology, ensuring precision, and alignment with evidence-based practice.
- Provide comprehensive patient-centred care that integrates functional, aesthetic, and psychosocial considerations, and infection control and risk management strategies to ensure patient safety and compliance with professional standards.
- Competently employ specialised technologies, and techniques in implantology, including imaging systems, and innovative surgical approaches.
- Demonstrate professionalism through in clinical practice through ethical decision-making, and compliance with regulatory and institutional guidelines.
- Efficiently assess, diagnose, and manage patients requiring dental implants, leveraging effective data handling and communication skills in both written and oral forms.
Transferable/Key Skills
- Communicate effectively with patients, peers, and interdisciplinary teams, ensuring clarity and professionalism.
- Demonstrate effective time and resource management to balance clinical, academic, and research priorities.
- Engage in critical reflective practice and self-assessment to identify areas for personal and professional development and growth.
- Apply effective leadership and teamwork skills to contribute positively within multidisciplinary teams, consulting and collaborating with other professionals.
Studying in Cardiff University for a year was an amazing experience. I had a chance to be guided by the most talented supervisors and helped by the most friendly colleagues. In addition, I took very interesting courses all relating to the Dental Implantology, Prosthodontic and also valuable laboratory and clinical skills. I was also able to operate in surgery and learn from all the supervisors. It was very lucky for me to have this splendid year.
Tuition fees for 2025 entry
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on your fee status. Your fee status could be home, island or overseas.
Learn how we decide your fee status
Fees for home status
Year | Tuition fee | Deposit |
---|---|---|
Year one | £45,200 | £5,000 |
Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland
If you are an EU, EEA or Swiss national, your tuition fees for 2025/26 be in line with the overseas fees for international students, unless you qualify for home fee status. UKCISA have provided information about Brexit and tuition fees.
Fees for island status
Learn more about the postgraduate fees for students from the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
Fees for overseas status
Year | Tuition fee | Deposit |
---|---|---|
Year one | £45,200 | £5,000 |
More information about tuition fees and deposits, including for part-time and continuing students.
Financial support
Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. For more information visit our funding section. Please note that these sources of financial support are limited and therefore not everyone who meets the criteria are guaranteed to receive the support.
Additional costs
Will I need any specific equipment to study this course/programme?
No specific equipment required
Living costs
We’re based in one of the UK’s most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.
Funding
Careers and placements
The Courses, the accredited CPD, the documented clinical skills and the scientific training (and skills acquired) will all support the development of the career of the individuals in hospital, specialist or family dental practices.
The qualification will also support the individual in future career in the University sector.
Placements
You will have observational visits to a specialist dental practice in Cardiff. This work placement enables you to observe implant placement in the primary-care setting. Here you will observe treatments by accredited specialists and members of the teaching programme at Cardiff University.
Next steps
Open Day visits
Register for information about our upcoming dates.Make an enquiry
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HESA Data: Copyright Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited 2021. The Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data. Data is from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20, published by HESA in June 2022.