Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Special Needs Dentistry) (CRICOS course code 108337M) is a Masters Degree (Extended) delivered by The University of Sydney over 3 years. This advanced clinical program is designed for dentists seeking specialist training in special needs dentistry, focusing on the oral health of patients with complex medical, physical, psychological, or social conditions. As a CRICOS-registered course (00026A), it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment. Graduates are equipped to manage vulnerable populations across hospital and community settings.
Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Special Needs Dentistry) is a Masters Degree (Extended) that provides advanced clinical training in the management of patients with special needs. The program is offered by The University of Sydney, a leading Australian university and a government-owned institution (CRICOS 00026A). The course falls under the field of education: 0607 Dental Studies (n.e.c.), and is designed to meet the growing demand for specialist dentists in this area. International students must ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered to be eligible for a Student visa. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this course is one of them.
The curriculum covers advanced diagnostics, treatment planning, and management of patients with special needs, including those with intellectual disabilities, physical impairments, complex medical conditions, and mental health issues. Students develop expertise in behaviour guidance, sedation techniques, and interdisciplinary care. The program emphasises evidence-based practice, ethical decision-making, and cultural competence. While specific subjects are determined by the university, graduates typically emerge with the skills to treat diverse patient populations in hospital, community, and private practice settings.
The program is a full-time, single qualification (no dual award) delivered over 3 years, totalling 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. Language of instruction is English. There is no foundation studies component. Students should expect a rigorous schedule combining coursework, clinical placements, and research. The extended duration reflects the depth of clinical training required for specialist practice.
Indicative fees sourced from the CRICOS register (April 2026) are as follows: tuition A$258,100, non-tuition fees A$1,136, estimated total A$259,236. These fees are set by The University of Sydney and are subject to change. Additional costs include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (approximately A$600–$900 per week for rent, food, and transport in Sydney), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600 for the main applicant). Always confirm current fees on the provider's website: http://sydney.edu.au.
English language requirements vary by provider — typically IELTS 5.5–7.0 overall depending on course level. For this masters-level program, a higher score (e.g., IELTS 7.0) is expected. Prior qualifications: a recognised dental degree (e.g., Bachelor of Dental Surgery) and relevant clinical experience. Some providers require registration with the Dental Board of Australia. Foundation/pathway options: refer to The University of Sydney's website for specific prerequisites. HeadStart Academy does not assess eligibility; contact the institution directly.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 48 weeks at 38 hours per week, totalling approximately 1,824 hours. This practical training involves supervised clinical placements in hospitals, community clinics, and specialised dental services. Work-integrated learning allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to real patient cases under the guidance of experienced clinicians, building competence in special needs dentistry.
The program is delivered at two locations: Surry Hills Campus (Surry Hills, NSW) and Westmead Campus (Westmead, NSW). Surry Hills is close to Sydney's central business district, with excellent public transport links. Westmead is a major health precinct in western Sydney, home to Westmead Hospital and several research institutes. Both campuses offer modern clinical facilities. Sydney has over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and a large international student population, with living costs typically higher than other Australian cities.
International students studying this course on a CRICOS-registered program must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500). The visa allows work rights of 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay, and evidence of sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. The ESOS Act provides legal protections for international students. HeadStart Academy recommends consulting a registered migration agent (MARA) or visiting homeaffairs.gov.au for personalised advice.
Follow these three steps to apply for the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Special Needs Dentistry) at The University of Sydney: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers (filter by course level, field, and city) to confirm the course meets your goals. 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution by meeting entry requirements, submitting English test scores, and adhering to application deadlines (typically mid-year for February intake). 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you have OSHC and sufficient funds.
Ready to apply? Follow our three-step guide above to start your journey at The University of Sydney.
Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Special Needs Dentistry) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of Sydney. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.