Level 7 diploma or MSc in aesthetic dentistry: which is right for you?

Many dentists reach a point where they want to do bigger, better aesthetic and restorative dentistry, and a formal qualification feels like the next step. But the options can be confusing: certificates, diplomas, MScs, Level 7, credits. This guide explains what the terms mean and how to choose.

What does “Level 7” mean?

In the UK qualification frameworks, Level 7 is postgraduate, master’s-level study. A postgraduate certificate, a postgraduate diploma and an MSc can all be Level 7. The main difference between them is how much study they involve, measured in credits.

Certificate, diploma or MSc?

• Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert): usually 60 credits.
• Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip): usually 120 credits.
• MSc: usually 180 credits, typically including a research project or dissertation.

So a postgraduate diploma is a substantial qualification in its own right, and it can also be a step towards an MSc.

Clinical skills are not the same as academic credit

A qualification on paper does not guarantee you can deliver the dentistry. For aesthetic and restorative work, what changes your practice is hands-on training, real cases and feedback from experienced clinicians. When you compare programmes, look closely at how much face-to-face, practical teaching you will actually get.

Questions to ask before you choose

• How many face-to-face, hands-on teaching days are there, and where?
• Do the teachers work in everyday practice and treat patients themselves?
• Does it cover restorative dentistry as well as aesthetics: crowns, onlays, bridges, endodontics and occlusion?
• Is there mentoring and support with your own cases?
• Who awards the qualification, and is there a route on to an MSc?
• What is the total cost, including registration fees, and can you pay in instalments?
• How much time away from practice will it take?

Can you start with a diploma and go on to an MSc?

Often, yes. Some diplomas offer a recognised route on to a master’s degree, which lets you build clinical skills first and add the academic research later, if and when you want to.

Where Totally Aesthetics fits

Totally Aesthetics is our one-year diploma for general dentists. On successful completion you are awarded a 120-credit Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry by EduQual, a regulated awarding body.

The year includes 17 face-to-face teaching days grouped into 9 visits to London, more than 300 hours of online learning, and mentoring from Dr Monik Vasant and the team. You also become eligible to apply for Associate Fellowship of the College of General Dentistry, and can access a fast-track MSc route through the College of General Dentistry and Aston University. In our survey of graduates, 98% reported an increase in their monthly income. Read more about the diploma.

Dental therapists can take Totally Therapist, our Level 7 postgraduate certificate in aesthetic dentistry for dental therapists.