ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials)
The ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials is a prestigious and highly specialised qualification designed for experienced dental professionals who are ready to elevate their expertise and advance in their careers. This programme is not suited for fresh candidates; it is intended for learners with an existing professional background who wish to expand their technical knowledge, deepen their understanding, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) portfolio.
Focusing on advanced principles of dental materials science, the qualification covers the properties, classification, and clinical applications of a wide range of materials used in restorative, prosthetic, and preventive dentistry. Learners will engage with the latest research, technological innovations, and evidence-based practices that are shaping the future of dental care. This ensures they can make informed decisions, deliver superior patient outcomes, and remain competitive in an evolving healthcare environment.
By completing the Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials, learners position themselves as industry leaders—capable of applying advanced knowledge in clinical, research, or academic settings, and contributing to the ongoing advancement of dental science. This qualification not only enhances professional credibility but also opens pathways to greater career opportunities and influence within the dental profession.
Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials (PgD Dental Materials), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Fundamentals and Properties of Dental Materials
- Restorative and Prosthetic Dental Materials
- Dental Ceramics, Polymers, and Composite Systems
- Impression, Casting, and Laboratory Materials
- Research, Testing, and Quality Assurance in Dental Materials
- Professional Practice and Continuing Professional Development in Dental Materials
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
1. Fundamentals and Properties of Dental Materials
- Analyse the fundamental principles of material science relevant to dentistry.
- Evaluate the mechanical, physical, chemical, and biological properties of dental materials.
- Assess the relationship between material composition, structure, and clinical performance.
2. Restorative and Prosthetic Dental Materials
- Critically appraise materials used in restorative and prosthetic applications.
- Select appropriate materials based on patient needs, clinical indications, and biocompatibility.
- Compare traditional and modern restorative materials in terms of performance and durability.
3. Dental Ceramics, Polymers, and Composite Systems
- Examine the composition and manufacturing processes of ceramics, polymers, and composites.
- Evaluate bonding techniques and surface treatment methods.
- Compare performance characteristics of advanced composites, nanocomposites, and hybrid materials.
4. Impression, Casting, and Laboratory Materials
- Demonstrate understanding of the properties and applications of impression and casting materials.
- Assess accuracy, dimensional stability, and reproduction quality in laboratory processes.
- Evaluate advances in digital and 3D printing technologies for dental applications.
5. Research, Testing, and Quality Assurance in Dental Materials
- Apply laboratory and clinical testing methods to evaluate dental materials.
- Interpret industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements.
- Develop quality assurance strategies for dental material performance.
6. Professional Practice and Continuing Professional Development in Dental Materials
- Apply ethical and professional principles in material selection and clinical use.
- Integrate evidence-based research into clinical decision-making.
- Develop a personal CPD plan to maintain expertise in dental materials innovation.
Completing the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials equips learners with advanced knowledge and practical expertise, enhancing career prospects within the dental profession. This qualification is designed for experienced dental practitioners, dental technologists, and related professionals seeking to take on senior roles in clinical practice, dental laboratories, research, education, and product development.
Successful graduates can progress towards:
- Specialist clinical roles in restorative dentistry, prosthodontics, or dental technology innovation.
- Leadership and managerial positions within dental research institutions, professional training centres, or healthcare organisations.
- Consultancy opportunities with dental product manufacturers, regulatory bodies, or healthcare providers.
- Advanced professional roles that focus on innovation, quality assurance, and material evaluation in dental practice.
This qualification also strengthens a learner’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) profile, helping them remain competitive in a rapidly evolving field. By developing expertise in the selection, application, and assessment of dental materials, learners can contribute to improving patient outcomes, advancing dental technologies, and shaping the future of dental care globally.
Centres approved to deliver the ICTQual AB Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Materials must demonstrate the capability to provide high-quality training, assessment, and learner support in line with industry and academic standards. To maintain excellence, centres are required to meet the following criteria:
- Qualified and Experienced Staff – Employ trainers, assessors, and internal verifiers with appropriate academic qualifications, professional expertise, and recent industry experience in dental materials and related disciplines.
- Adequate Learning Resources – Provide access to up-to-date course materials, textbooks, journals, and digital resources to support advanced study.
- Specialist Equipment and Facilities – Ensure availability of relevant laboratory equipment, clinical tools, and materials for demonstrations and practical activities.
- Assessment and Quality Assurance Systems – Implement robust procedures for assessment, internal verification, and standardisation to ensure fairness and consistency.
- Learner Support Services – Offer academic guidance, pastoral support, and CPD advice to help learners successfully complete the programme.
- Health, Safety, and Compliance – Maintain safe learning and working environments that comply with all applicable health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
- Commitment to Continuous Improvement – Regularly review and enhance training delivery methods to align with current developments in dental materials science and education best practice.
These requirements ensure that every learner receives a rigorous, relevant, and high-quality learning experience, leading to successful achievement of the qualification.
