Dental nursing programmes and qualifications
Listed below are details of qualifications leading to registration with the GDC as a dental nurse and the providers offering these qualifications
Registering with the GDC
If you wish to register with us, please check to ensure your qualification is listed below.
If you qualified several years ago and your specific qualification is not listed below, please check our historic qualifications page or contact the Registration team.
If you qualified outside the UK, please check your route to registration. This includes qualifications awarded in the European Union, European Economic Area and all other primary qualifications awarded by an overseas institution.
Dental Nursing Assistant Level 3/Dental Nursing Assistant
We have recently been receiving applications from those who have completed qualifications for dental nursing assistant or dental nursing assistant level 3. Please note that these qualifications are NOT eligible for registration as a dental nurse with the GDC. You must hold one of the qualifications listed below in order to apply for registration as a dental nurse.
If you have any queries, please contact the Registration team.
Agored Cymru
Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (Wales)
This programme delivered by Grŵp Llandrillo Menai in collaboration with Bangor University and awarded by Agored Cymru.
Cardiff University
A new version of the programme has been approved by the Registrar and is being delivered by the school.
City & Guilds
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dental Nursing
City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (QCF)
National Examining Board for Dental Nurses (NEBDN)
NCFE CACHE
(Delivered in England and Wales only)
NCFE CACHE inspection report plus observations 2022
Level 3 Diploma in the Principles and Practice of Dental Nursing (16-18)
This programme has been provisionally accepted by the GDC Registrar. The decision regarding approval of this programme will not be made until the first learners have completed their studies and final assessments. The recommendations of the panel must then be considered by the Registrar. Please contact the provider for further information about the programme.
Level 3 Diploma in the Principles of Practice of Dental Nursing (Integrated Apprenticeship)
This programme has been provisionally accepted by the GDC Registrar. The decision regarding approval of this programme will not be made until the first learners have completed their studies and final assessments. The recommendations of the panel must then be considered by the Registrar. Please contact the provider for further information about the programme.
Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in the Principles and Practice of Dental Nursing – Standalone Adult (Diploma)
This programme has been provisionally accepted by the GDC Registrar. The decision regarding approval of this programme will not be made until the first learners have completed their studies and final assessments. The recommendations of the panel must then be considered by the Registrar. Please contact the provider for further information about the programme.
Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)
SVQ in Dental Nursing at SCQF Level 7
Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) inspection report plus observations 2016
Teeside University
Certificate of Higher Education in Dental Nursing
University of Northampton
Foundation Degree in Dental Nursing
University of Northampton inspection report plus observations 2023