LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials)
The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) is a UK-accredited qualification designed for dental professionals, researchers, and academics who aim to specialise in the science and application of dental biomaterials. In today’s rapidly advancing field of dentistry, the selection, innovation, and application of dental materials are critical for ensuring long-lasting restorations, biocompatibility, and improved patient outcomes. This postgraduate diploma provides advanced expertise for those who wish to lead in dental research, clinical practice, and academic roles.
The purpose of this programme is to develop a deep understanding of the properties, performance, and clinical application of modern dental materials. Learners will explore a wide range of topics, including restorative materials, ceramics, composites, polymers, alloys, and bioceramics, as well as the latest trends in nanomaterials and digital dentistry. The course emphasises not only theoretical knowledge but also the ability to apply scientific principles in solving complex clinical and research challenges.
By enrolling in the PgD Dental Materials, learners will acquire advanced analytical skills, research methodologies, and critical thinking abilities essential for innovation in dental science. The programme equips professionals with the expertise to assess, select, and apply materials effectively in restorative, prosthodontic, orthodontic, and implant dentistry, ensuring evidence-based decision-making and improved treatment outcomes.
This postgraduate diploma in dental materials also supports career progression by opening pathways into specialist practice, teaching, academic research, and leadership roles in the dental industry. Graduates will be well-prepared to contribute to material innovation, influence best practices, and meet the growing global demand for advanced dental solutions.
Why Choose this Qualification
The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) is a UK-accredited qualification designed for dental professionals, researchers, and academics seeking to advance their expertise in the science, innovation, and clinical application of dental biomaterials. This programme combines advanced theoretical knowledge with research-driven practice, enabling learners to understand material properties, performance, and applications that are essential in modern dentistry. Participants explore restorative materials, ceramics, polymers, alloys, and emerging innovations such as nanomaterials and digital dental technologies, preparing them to lead advancements in clinical dentistry, research, and education. Structured around assignments, this postgraduate diploma offers flexibility for professionals managing academic growth alongside clinical or research responsibilities.
Key Reasons to Choose this Qualification:
Specialist Knowledge:
Gain an in-depth understanding of dental materials science, including mechanical properties, biocompatibility, and long-term performance. Learners study restorative and prosthodontic materials, biomimetic approaches, and cutting-edge innovations to enhance treatment longevity, patient comfort, and clinical outcomes.
Practical Application:
Develop expertise in selecting, testing, and applying dental materials across a wide range of treatments including restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, orthodontics, and implantology. The programme emphasises research methodologies, laboratory testing, and evidence-based clinical application, equipping learners to address real-world challenges in material performance and patient care.
UK-Accredited Diploma:
Earn a UK-recognised postgraduate qualification that validates advanced expertise in dental materials. Accreditation ensures alignment with international research and clinical standards, making this diploma valuable for dental practitioners, academics, and researchers pursuing specialist recognition and professional credibility.
Flexible Learning:
Benefit from a structured, assignment-based learning pathway designed for practising professionals. This model supports independent study and professional balance while maintaining high academic rigour, making it ideal for clinicians, researchers, and educators alike.
Evidence-Based Training:
Explore modern advancements in biomaterials, research-driven methodologies, and global best practices. Learners gain skills in critical evaluation, material innovation, and integration of scientific research into clinical and academic contexts.
Career Development:
Unlock opportunities in specialist dental practice, academia, research institutions, and the dental manufacturing industry. The PgD Dental Materials enhances employability by equipping learners with advanced scientific knowledge and practical skills essential for leadership roles in dentistry and dental research.
The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) equips learners with advanced scientific insights, technical expertise, and a UK-accredited qualification. By combining theory with applied research, it supports innovation in dental science, strengthens professional recognition, and contributes to the advancement of modern dental care. This diploma is particularly valuable for dental professionals and researchers aiming to specialise in biomaterials, influence best practices, and meet the growing global demand for advanced dental solutions.
Course Overview
LICQual UK Awarding Body
Average Completion Time:
6-24 Months
Study Units: 6 Units
Evidence & Assignment Based
Mandatory Units
Who Should Take This Course
The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) is designed for dental professionals, academics, and researchers who wish to develop advanced knowledge and technical expertise in dental biomaterials and their clinical applications. This UK-accredited postgraduate qualification is ideal for practitioners aiming to enhance treatment outcomes, support innovation in dentistry, and progress within the specialised field of dental materials science. It equips learners with in-depth theoretical insights and research-based approaches to the properties, performance, and applications of restorative materials, ceramics, polymers, alloys, and emerging biomaterials, supporting both professional growth and the advancement of modern dental practice.
This course is suitable for:
Dental Surgeons: Practitioners seeking to expand their expertise in selecting, applying, and evaluating dental materials for restorative, prosthodontic, and implant treatments, ensuring longevity and patient satisfaction.
General Dentists: Professionals wishing to strengthen their understanding of material science to make informed choices that optimise clinical outcomes, enhance patient comfort, and ensure evidence-based practice.
Aspiring Specialists: Dentists preparing for higher-level postgraduate qualifications or specialist pathways in prosthodontics, restorative dentistry, or dental research who want to establish a strong academic and clinical foundation in biomaterials.
Dental Hygienists and Therapists: Practitioners aiming to broaden their role by gaining knowledge of material applications in preventive, restorative, and supportive care, enabling them to contribute effectively to interdisciplinary dental teams.
Dental Academics and Educators: Professionals interested in advancing their expertise in dental materials to support teaching, academic leadership, and research in the field of dentistry.
Healthcare-Oriented Learners: Individuals with a professional interest in biomaterials and oral health who wish to understand the principles, innovations, and impact of dental materials in improving treatment standards and long-term patient well-being.
The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) is particularly valuable for dental professionals and researchers seeking to specialise in biomaterials, strengthen their scientific expertise, and achieve a UK-accredited postgraduate qualification. By combining evidence-based study with clinical and research application, this diploma supports career progression, professional recognition, and the ability to meet the growing global demand for advanced and innovative dental materials in modern dentistry.
Course Benefits
The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) provides significant benefits for dental professionals, academics, and researchers seeking to enhance their expertise in biomaterials science, restorative applications, and material innovation within modern dentistry. By integrating advanced theoretical knowledge with research and practical application, this postgraduate diploma equips learners to select, apply, and evaluate dental materials effectively, supporting improved treatment outcomes and evidence-based practice. Designed as a flexible, assignment-based programme, it fosters professional development while maintaining high academic and clinical standards in the field of dental materials.
Key Benefits of the Course:
- Specialist Knowledge: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the properties, behaviour, and applications of restorative materials, ceramics, polymers, dental alloys, and emerging biomaterials. Learners explore how materials interact with oral tissues, resist wear, and contribute to long-term treatment success.
- Practical Application: Develop competence in applying dental materials for restorative, prosthodontic, orthodontic, and implant treatments. Learners also strengthen skills in material testing, evaluation, and selection for clinical suitability, ensuring optimal performance and patient outcomes.
- Recognised Qualification: Earn a UK-accredited postgraduate diploma that validates advanced expertise in dental materials and opens professional opportunities in dental practices, specialist clinics, academic institutions, and research laboratories. Accreditation ensures alignment with global standards in dental education and material science.
- Flexible Learning Pathway: Benefit from an assignment-based study model that allows learners to progress academically while balancing clinical or research responsibilities. This structure supports professional growth without the constraints of traditional examinations.
- Evidence-Based Training: Explore the latest research, innovations, and global guidelines in dental biomaterials, ensuring that learners adopt modern, safe, and effective approaches in clinical dentistry and academic research.
- Career Development: Expand career opportunities in clinical practice, material development, teaching, or dental research. The PgD Dental Materials qualification enhances employability and prepares learners for advanced postgraduate study, specialist recognition, or leadership roles in dental education and material innovation.
- Enhanced Patient Care: Improve patient outcomes through the informed selection and application of materials that enhance treatment longevity, aesthetics, and biocompatibility, thereby raising the overall standard of dental care.
- Professional Growth: Strengthen scientific expertise, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This diploma prepares dental professionals to play a leading role in material selection, research, and innovation within the evolving landscape of dentistry.
The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) equips dental professionals with advanced knowledge, research-based insights, and a UK-recognised qualification. It empowers learners to expand their scientific and clinical capabilities, contribute to patient care innovation, and pursue professional advancement while meeting the growing global demand for expertise in dental materials science.
Eligibility Criteria
The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) is a UK-accredited programme designed for dental professionals, academics, and researchers who wish to advance their expertise in biomaterials science, restorative applications, and innovative dental technologies. This assignment-based qualification integrates advanced theoretical study with evidence-based practice, making it ideal for dentists, prosthodontists, dental technicians, and dental academics seeking to specialise in material science and its applications in modern dentistry. By meeting the entry requirements, learners ensure they are well-prepared to succeed in the programme and apply their knowledge confidently in both clinical and research contexts.
Educational Background:
Applicants must hold a recognised dental degree such as BDS, DDS, or an equivalent international qualification. Graduates with a Level 6 diploma in dentistry, dental technology, or a healthcare-related field may also be considered. Equivalent qualifications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to confirm suitability for postgraduate study.
Professional Experience:
A minimum of one year of professional experience in dentistry, dental technology, or a related clinical or laboratory setting is recommended. Prior exposure to restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, or dental material applications is advantageous, though motivated applicants without direct material science experience may also apply.
Age Requirement:
Learners must be at least 21 years old at the time of enrolment, demonstrating the professional maturity, responsibility, and academic capability required for postgraduate-level training.
Language Proficiency:
Since the programme is delivered in English, learners should have proficiency in reading, writing, and academic communication. A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or an equivalent qualification is recommended for non-native English speakers to ensure active engagement with course content and successful completion of assignments.
Technical Requirements:
Applicants should have access to a reliable computer or laptop with stable internet connectivity. Basic IT skills are essential for accessing digital resources, conducting research, and submitting assignments via online platforms.
Required Documents:
Applicants must submit a valid ID or passport, proof of educational qualifications, and evidence of professional experience (if applicable). Additional documentation may be requested from learners presenting international qualifications to verify eligibility.
The Qualification Process
LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) follows a structured pathway to ensure learners gain comprehensive knowledge, practical skills, and professional competence in community oral healthcare.
Step 1: Self-Assessment
Learners review the entry requirements to confirm eligibility. Candidates with a background in dentistry, oral health, or public health are encouraged to apply.
Step 2: Registration
Complete the registration process by submitting required documents such as proof of qualifications, a valid ID, and payment of enrollment fees.
Step 3: Induction
An induction session is conducted to:
- Verify learner eligibility and documentation.
- Introduce study materials, learning outcomes, and assessment procedures.
Step 4: Learning and Evidence Submission
Learners complete assignments, case studies, and practical exercises demonstrating competence in public health dentistry, community oral health assessment, preventive strategies, and program planning.
Step 5: Feedback and Revision
Assessors review submitted evidence and provide constructive feedback. Learners can revise and resubmit work to meet all required standards.
Step 6: Competence Validation
Final submissions are evaluated to confirm that learners have met all theoretical and practical learning outcomes.
Step 7: Internal Quality Assurance (IQA)
The IQA team reviews the assessment process to ensure accuracy, fairness, and compliance with international standards.
Step 8: External Verification (EQA)
External verifiers validate the authenticity and quality of learner achievements.
Step 9: Certification
Upon successful verification, learners are awarded LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials) , demonstrating advanced proficiency in community oral healthcare and preparing them for professional growth in dental public health, preventive dentistry, and healthcare policy.
