Why Graduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology?
Take a bite out of forensics.
Forensic odontology is a branch of forensic science and dates to 66 AD. It involves the application of dental knowledge to legal investigations and proceedings.
Provide valuable information for identification and evidence in criminal cases. Play a crucial role in analysing bite marks and comparing dental records. Assist law enforcement agencies, medical examiners and coroners by conducting crucial examinations.
Identify perpetrators and victims through dental records. Liaise with the criminal justice system. Advance your general dental skills into the field of forensic dental and oral evidence.
Overview
Our Graduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology has a strong practical focus. This specialised program is designed for licensed dental professionals seeking to expand their expertise into the field of forensic odontology.
You’ll discover professional handling, examination, interpretation and presentation of dental and oral evidence. Get trained in court procedures and giving expert testimony. You’ll be prepared to work competently in both civil and criminal jurisdictions.
Learn through video and computer imaging techniques. Take advantage of our hands-on approach to deal independently with routine forensic odontological casework. Explore how to prepare evidence for legal proceedings. Contribute to disaster victim identification efforts.
Gain an understanding of forensic medicine and pathology principles. Develop the knowledge and skills to create a rewarding career in this subspeciality of dentistry through theoretical and practical study.
Uncover the intersection of dental science and forensic investigation with Adelaide University. Open new career opportunities in law enforcement, disaster response and legal consultation.
Key features
Examine and prepare case records and reports. - Perform oral examinations, analyse bite marks and determine age through dental analysis.
- Study dental forensics and its role within the law.
- Utilise video and computer imaging techniques.
- Explore the history and ethics of dental forensics to inform your studies.
- Enjoy practical hands-on experience in mortuaries and Courts.
What you'll learn
Further your knowledge in this highly specialised area. To successfully graduate from the Graduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology you must complete five core courses over one year of full-time study (or part-time equivalent).
This program covers the history and current landscape of forensic odontology. You’ll be introduced to its place in community dentistry, legal systems and the coronial system. Investigate dental evidence from scenes, cranio-facial superimposition and age estimation techniques. Tackle expert evidence and methods of investigating civil and criminal matters.
Throughout your degree, you’ll learn how to produce expert opinions relating to the scope of forensic odontology. Apply your findings to dentistry and forensic sciences through core research courses.
Coursework will also explore the interdisciplinary nature of forensic science. You’ll develop an understanding of how crime is managed and awareness of your place in an investigation.
Participate in routine casework and report on Coronial oral autopsies, bite-mark examinations and age estimations. Learn how to prepare case records and reports. Discover practical learning through hands-on attendance at the city mortuary and Courts of Law.
Assessment includes essays, seminar participation, written and oral examinations and a research project.
Degree Structure: Graduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology
Program code: GDFOD
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 48 units from Core courses
Study plan
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Enrolment information
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
What courses you'll study
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 48 units from Core courses
Complete exactly 48 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Casework in Forensic Odontology Part 1
|
Course code
DENT5006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Casework in Forensic Odontology Part 2
|
Course code
DENT5007
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Principles and Methods of Forensic Odontology
|
Course code
DENT5008
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Forensic Odontology Research Part 1
|
Course code
DENT5009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Forensic Odontology Research Part 2
|
Course code
DENT5010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Research Methods and Ethics
|
Course code
DENT5011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Integrated Forensic Science
|
Course code
DENT5012
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Casework in Forensic Odontology T/Y Continuing
|
Course code
DENT5013
|
Units
3
|
|
|
Course name
Casework in Forensic Odontology T/Y Final
|
Course code
DENT5014
|
Units
3
|
|
|
Course name
Forensic Odontology Research T/Y Continuing
|
Course code
DENT5015
|
Units
3
|
|
|
Course name
Forensic Odontology Research T/Y Final
|
Course code
DENT5016
|
Units
3
|
Notes
Only students approved by the Program Director to study the program part-time are permitted to enrol into: DENT5013 - Casework in Forensic Odontology T/Y Continuing , DENT5014 - Casework in Forensic Odontology T/Y Final , DENT5015 - Forensic Odontology Research T/Y Continuing and DENT5016 - Forensic Odontology Research T/Y Final
Career outcomes
Graduates of this program will be equipped to assist in forensic odontology casework.
Identify victims of mass disaster. Work as a consultant. Examine and analyse bite marks. Daily tasks require attention to detail, strong analytical skills and the ability to communicate findings clearly both in writing and verbally. Forensic odontologists must be prepared to work on cases that may be confronting and distressing to some people.
You could work in conjunction with the following:
- Coroner and medical examiner offices
- Government agencies
- Police and military services
- Insurance companies
- Hospitals
- Child and senior protection agencies
- Private consulting firms
- Academic institutions (for research and teaching).
Industry trends
Although a niche specialisation with limited employment opportunities, forensic odontology remains an important field in Australia. You’ll support forensic pathologists during investigations such as coronial cases and disaster victim identification. Most practitioners combine their work with general dental practice or work on a consultancy basis. As an Adelaide University graduate, you’ll develop high levels of interpersonal skills that can be transferred to all aspects of your professional life. Foster the qualities to work effectively with other odontology personnel and with allied professional teams.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your program team
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
