Graduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology

  • N/A
    Guaranteed Entry Score - ATAR

  • Duration

    1 year full-time
    (or part-time equiv.)

  • Start Dates

    February and July

  • Location

    Teaching Hospitals

Get your teeth into forensics

Forensic odontology is a specialist dental science required within the criminal justice system. Forensic odontologists perform examinations required by law enforcement agencies, medical examiners and coroners. They work to identify perpetrators and victims, usually by comparing dental records with human remains and bite marks.  

What will you do?

Our Graduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology has a practical focus. It looks at the professional handling, examination, interpretation and presentation of dental and oral evidence. You will:

  • conduct oral autopsies, bite-mark examinations and age estimations
  • study the history and ethics of dental forensics and its role within the law
  • prepare case records and reports
  • explore video and computer imaging techniques.

Note: The nature of the concepts and casework required are often confronting and may be distressing to some people.



Note:
This degree is only available in blended mode and on-campus attendance is required.  if you are a continuing student in the degree and are unable to attend campus, please contact your program coordinator for program advice.


  • Ranked 25 globally for dentistry^
  • Strong cohort community with small class sizes
  • Practical hand-on experience

^QS World University Ranking by Subject, 2022

Entry Requirements

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Before applying make sure you understand the eligibility and entry requirements for your chosen degree.

Look out for any prerequisites or assumed knowledge subjects. Some degrees also have additional entry requirements like interviews and auditions.

Domestic applicants

SATAC Code 3GD082
Deferment Yes - 2 year
Intake February and July
Selection Criteria
Graduate entry

Higher Education Study All applicants must have:

  • a Bachelor of Dental Surgery or equivalent, or higher.

  • At least two years' experience in general dental practice.

Additionally, all applicants will need to provide the following as part of their SATAC application:

  • updated CV that provides comprehensive academic and employment history as well as current clinical position held.

  • 2 referees on official letterhead

  • 1 page statement of interests and aptitudes.

Fees and Scholarships

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Domestic applicants

Indicative annual tuition fees
Australian Full-fee place: $53,000

Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

FEE-HELP
This is an Australian full-fee program. As a domestic student you may be eligible to:

  • receive a zero interest government assistance package to cover your course fees and
  • use over $100,000 in HELP assistance over your lifetime
Check your eligibility today at Study Assist

Scholarships

Scholarships are not only for high achievers—they are also available to provide students with an equal opportunity to study at university, no matter where they live or what their financial situation might be.

Scholarships are available to both new and continuing students. We encourage students to apply for any scholarships for which they may be eligible.

To browse scholarships offered by the University, visit: University Scholarships

To explore scholarships offered by organisations external to the University, visit: External Scholarships

Careers

Career Readiness

Potential careers include as a forensic odontologist, in addition to general dental practice. Graduates will become competent to provide an important service to the community in both civil and criminal jurisdictions with an in-depth understanding of the correct professional handling, examination, interpretation and presentation of dental and oral evidence that may come before legal authorities.

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Graduate Attributes

The objective of this program is to produce graduates with specific attributes as outlined in University of Adelaide Graduate Attributes.
  1. Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth
  2. Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving
  3. Teamwork and communication skills
  4. Professionalism and leadership readiness
  5. Intercultural and ethical competency
  6. Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural competency
  7. Digital capabilities
  8. Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Potential careers

Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

Forensic Odontologist

Degree Structure

Students complete 5 core courses in Forensic Odontology.

Academic Program Rules

The Calendar is a comprehensive handbook of the University's academic program rules.

Example Study Plan


Indicative study plan
Year 1 ODONT 6017 Research Methods and Ethics ODONT 6008AHO/BHO Casework in Forensic Odontology ODONT 6012HO Principles and Methods of Forensic Odontology
ODONT 6016A/B Forensic Odontology Research ODONT 6018 Integrated Forensic Science

Assessment

Assessment includes essays, seminar participation, written and viva voce examinations and a research project.

Testimonial

I was continually inspired by the passion of my supervisory panel and their commitment to improving the lives of young people.
Luke Collier

Luke Collier

Master of Public Health

Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Thursday, 12 Sep 2024