No, undergraduate dentistry degrees are not usually available part-time due to the intensive clinical and practical training required. However, part-time options exist for dental hygiene, dental technology, and postgraduate dental specialisations.
Many students ask can you study dentistry part time as they look for more flexible education options. Dentistry is a demanding course that combines theory, laboratory work, and hands-on clinical training. While flexibility is increasing in education, dentistry remains mostly full-time at undergraduate level. Understanding your options helps you choose the right path.
Can You Study Dentistry Part-Time?
In most countries, you cannot study dentistry part time at undergraduate level. Dental degrees require full-time attendance because clinical skills must be developed consistently under supervision.
Is It Worth Studying Dentistry Abroad?
Why Dentistry Is Usually Full-Time
- Extensive clinical training
- Hands-on patient treatment
- Fixed laboratory schedules
- Strict accreditation requirements
These factors make part-time undergraduate study impractical.
Part-Time Alternatives Within Dentistry
If you’re asking can I study dentistry part time, consider related roles instead.
- Dental hygiene programmes
- Dental technology courses
- Dental assisting qualifications
These fields often offer part-time or flexible study options and still allow you to work in dentistry.
How many years is dentistry in Europe?
Step-by-Step: Flexible Study Routes in Dentistry
- Complete a part-time dental hygiene or dental technology course
- Gain work experience in a dental setting
- Progress to full-time dentistry later, if desired
- Consider postgraduate specialisation after qualifying
This pathway suits students needing flexibility.
How Studying Dentistry Abroad Can Enhance Your Career Prospects
Can You Study Medicine Part-Time?
Many people also ask can I study medicine part time. Similar to dentistry, undergraduate medicine degrees are almost always full-time due to clinical placement requirements. Part-time options are usually limited to postgraduate or specialised training.
Part-Time Postgraduate Dentistry Options
After qualifying as a dentist, part-time study becomes more realistic.
- Orthodontics
- Oral surgery
- Periodontics
- Public health dentistry
Many postgraduate programmes are designed for working professionals.
Can I Study Dentistry in English in Europe?
Online and Blended Learning in Dentistry
Some theoretical modules are available online. However, dentistry cannot be completed fully online. Practical training must be done in person, making blended learning the most flexible option available.
tart Your Journey with Studying Medicine or Dentistry Abroad in Europe
If you’re exploring flexible study routes or considering alternatives to full-time dentistry at home, Studying Medicine or Dentistry Abroad in Europe can help you understand your options. From entry requirements and English-taught programmes to application guidance, their team supports students looking to study dentistry or medicine across Europe.
Speak with an advisor to explore suitable universities, timelines, and pathways that match your academic goals and personal circumstances.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Can you study dentistry part time at university?
No. Undergraduate dentistry degrees are typically full-time only.
Can I study dentistry part time while working?
Not for a full dental degree. Related courses like dental hygiene may allow this.
Can I study medicine part time?
Undergraduate medicine is also full-time. Part-time options are usually postgraduate only.
Are there online dentistry degrees?
No. Practical training requires in-person attendance.
Are part-time postgraduate dentistry courses available?
Yes. Many dental specialisations offer part-time study.
Author
Reviewed by the Education Advisory Team
Last Updated
16 January 2026