SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Health Science in Dental Technology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118174  Bachelor of Health Science in Dental Technology 
ORIGINATOR
Cape Peninsula University of Technology 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree(Min 480)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Rehabilitative Health/Services 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  480  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2021-04-22  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2034-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Bachelor of Health Sciences in Dental Technology (BHSc in Dental Technology) is to produce a Dental Technologist who will be able to manufacture and repair dental prostheses and appliances. Learners will gain detailed knowledge of all four disciplines as required by the South African Dental Technician Council (SADTC) namely: Complete Removable Prosthodontics, Fixed Prosthodontics, Removable Partial Prosthodontics and Complete Removable Prosthodontics, which promote an in-depth understanding of key concepts of the profession and also the application of principles and theories of Dental Technology.

Qualifying learners will be holistic technologists, potential business owners and functioning professionals within the dental team. They will be able to communicate and collaborate in a meaningful and confident manner with other dental health professionals with regards to dentistry in general and will be equipped to engage in research within the field of applied dental technology and dental sciences.

Rationale:
There is a need for highly skilled dental technologists by the profession to meet the legislative and operational requirements of the SADTC. The SADTC stated that the industry requires a professional qualification equal to or higher than the Bachelor of Technology for the profession to develop its scientific, creative and technological base to serve the industry optimally.

This qualification designed to educate and train competent, responsible and accountable Dental Technologists for the dental profession. The qualifying learner will be a professional person who can conduct his or her dental laboratory in any of the recognised disciplines with confidence and will be able to employ other Dental Technicians to work in these dental laboratories.

This qualification will allow learners to register with the SADTC as Dental Technologists and register and own a dental laboratory. Workplace-based learning incorporated in this qualification in the third year and the final year will prepare learners for the real-life working environment.

The new qualification will allow for greater flexibility of career advancement both vertically and horizontally, as dental technologists are directly involved with changes in technology and are therefore able to contribute to academic research.

Academic progression through masters and doctoral degrees will allow for growth and development in the profession leading to evidence-based practice. Scientific growth will allow the profession to develop its knowledge base. The development of research activity in the field will allow for international collaborations, partnerships and reciprocity. Progress in research and applications in Dentistry necessitates parallel developments in academia to ensure service delivery is appropriate. Current research activities within the department of Dental Technology have identified further fields and opportunities for research which, when explored, will feedback into further development of the proposed Bachelor Degree.

Established partnerships, linkages and other relevant arrangements with industry, other HEIs (nationally and internationally) to support the offering of this qualification will be pursued. The Department of Dental Sciences has a very close collaboration with another local institution. The proximity of the two facilities from a professional point of view and the interaction that already exists can only be extended to include research.

Research supervision and examination collaboration already exists between these two institutions and strengthening this collaboration will be further pursued. Learners at the undergraduate level benefits from the clinical support regarding their case studies and case-based practical experience which is mutually beneficial. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The academic department applies the RPL process in line with the institutional RPL Policy.

Through the RPL process, applicants may be obtaining:
  • Access to the qualification
  • Credits and course exemptions, and
  • Advanced standing as described in the institutional guidelines.

    An appeal procedure is also in place to accommodate queries. The RPL unit coordinates and manages the RPL process across campuses.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 with endorsement.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor's studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Levels 5, 6, 7 and 8 totalling 480 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5,120 Credits:
  • Introduction to Dental Technology 1 (T&P), 20 Credits.
  • Dental Materials Science 1, 12 Credits.
  • Anatomy and Physiology, 12 Credits.
  • Oral Anatomy, 12 Credits.
  • Tooth Morphology 1, 16 Credits.
  • Physics for Dental Technology, 12 Credits.
  • Chemistry for Dental Technology, 12 Credits.
  • Dental Law and Ethics 1, 12 Credits.
  • Academic and Professional Literacy, 12 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 6,120 Credits:
  • Non-Metallic Complete Removable Prosthetics 2 (T&P), 20 Credits.
  • Removable Orthodontics 2 (T&P), 16 Credits.
  • Non-Metallic Removable Partial Prosthetics 2 (T&P), 20 Credits.
  • Fixed Prosthetics 2 (T&P), 16 Credits.
  • Dental Materials Science 2, 12 Credits.
  • Tooth Morphology 2 (Gnathology), 8 Credits.
  • Dental Law and Ethics 2, 8 Credits.
  • Academic and Professional Development, 8 Credits.
  • Oral Diagnostics, 12 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 7,120 Credits:
  • Non-Metallic Complete Removable Prosthetics 3 (T&P), 20 Credits.
  • Metallic Removable prosthetics 3 (T&P), 20 Credits.
  • Fixed Prosthetics 3 (T&P), 16 Credits.
  • Orthodontics 3 (T&P), 16 Credits.
  • Dental Materials Science 3, 12 Credits.
  • Dental Laboratory Management 3, 8 Credits.
  • Research Methodology and Techniques 3, 12 Credits.
  • Professional Practice, 16 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 8,120 Credits:
  • Advanced Professional Practice, 20 Credits.
  • Dental Technology Theory 4, 24 Credits.
  • Applied Dental Technology 4, 40 Credits.
  • Dental Materials Science 4, 12 Credits.
  • Dental Laboratory Management 4, 12 Credits.
  • Research Methodology and Techniques 4, 12 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Analyse, design, manufacture, modify and repair edentulous, removable metallic dental prostheses, fixed dental prostheses and partially edentulous removable non-metallic dental prostheses.
    2. Evaluate and recommend dental materials and equipment used for the fabrication of dental prostheses.
    3. Perform administration and management functions related to the dental laboratory.
    4. Communicate effectively using the appropriate registers with professional bodies, peers and all members of the dental team.
    5. Evaluate the legislative and ethical aspects of dental technology in South Africa and implement it appropriately in the dental laboratory.
    6. Manage the risk of occupational health hazards in dental laboratories.
    7. Design an appropriate research project based on sound and ethically responsible research methodology to solve and identify Dental Technology problems. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Analyse models and instructions received by a regulated dental practitioner to fabricate the appropriate dental prostheses.
  • Apply dental technology skills and procedures to design and manufacture, edentulous, removable metallic dental prostheses, and partially edentulous removable non-metallic dental prostheses, within a dental laboratory setting, as prescribed by a regulated dental practitioner.
  • Apply dental technology skills and procedures to modify and repair edentulous and partially edentulous removable non-metallic dental prostheses, within a dental laboratory setting, as prescribed by a regulated dental practitioner.
  • Work independently in a self-directed manner working with edentulous and partially edentulous removable non-metallic dental prostheses.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Select and explain the appropriate materials to be used in the fabrication of the various dental prostheses.
  • Explain the basic chemical, physical and mechanical properties of the various dental materials and how they are used in the fabrication of dental prosthetics.
  • Select and demonstrate the appropriate equipment to use for the fabrication of various dental prostheses.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Evaluate and implement operational systems related to administration.
  • Evaluate and explain systems in managing a dental laboratory related to human resources and the rights of employees.
  • Explain the processes in keeping records and stock control within a dental laboratory.
  • Apply sound knowledge of the prevailing labour legislation with special reference to employee and employer rights and obligations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Communicate ideas and offer creative insights effectively with other members of the dental team using appropriate terminology.
  • Evaluate the appropriate methods and level of professionalism in communicating with professional bodies.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Analyse and scrutinise the powers of the South African Dental Technicians Council and how this affects a laboratory owner.
  • Explain the ethical implications with regards to the Act, such as the storing of unmounted artificial teeth.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Apply and analyse the Health and Safety procedures applicable to the dental environment.
  • Identify, implement and control processes to minimise employee and own exposure to harmful substances and/or processes.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Review an academic journal paper in Dental Technology research.
  • Identify and assess the key research methodology principles and activities appropriate to the study.
  • Design a research proposal to solve a dental technology problem, using appropriate methods and sound ethical consideration.

    Integrated Assessment:
    This qualification will be assessed according to the institutional assessment policy that prescribes the mode of continuous assessment, which consists of formative and summative assessment.

    Formative assessment is aimed at enhancing learning and provides learners with an opportunity to reflect critically on their learning and to improve their levels of personal accountability and time management. Summative assessments will take place at the end of a section of work/quarter and is aimed at assessing learners' attainment against the learning outcomes of the qualification and subject(s).

    Each summative is preceded by at least two formative assessments. A pass mark of 50% is required for all assessments. Internal and external moderation will take place according to the provider's assessment policy.

    Integrated assessment forms part of continuous assessment at the institution and takes the form of an appropriate mix of both formative and summative assessment methods. Assessment policy and practices at the institution promote constructive alignment of the curriculum, learner centred-learning and assessment, and the importance of feedback to enhance learner engagement. Assessment practices are fair, reliable and valid and in keeping with academic disciplinary and professional field norms and standards. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Bachelor of Health Science in Dental Technology has been compared with similar qualifications offered in New Zealand, Kenya and Jamaica.

    In New Zealand, the Bachelor of Dental Technology is being offered only at the University of Otago and is a three-year professional degree leading to an Honours degree. The qualification consists of modules such as the Chemical Basis of Biology and Human Health, Oral Health Sciences for Dental Technology and Biological Physics. This qualification has major modules similar to the New Zealand qualification. Learners in the BHSc Dental Technology qualification learn the specialised skills of a Dental Technologist such as to design and fabricate various oral devices that have been prescribed to a patient by a regulated Dental Practitioner. A work-integrated learning component is included and takes place in an on-site high-tech dental laboratory for learners to be able to create complete dentures, partial dentures, crowns and bridges structures, implant-regulated restorations and orthodontic appliances.

    In Jamaica, the University of Technology offers a Bachelor of Science in Dental Technology. This qualification is similar to the Jamaican qualification in terms of the science subjects such as Chemistry, Physics and other Science-based modules that underpin the practical application in Dental Technology.

    Mount Kenya University in Kenya offers a four-year Bachelor of Science in Dental Technology. This qualification has a similar structure to the Kenyan qualification which includes the removable acrylic and cast alloy partial dentures, crown and bridge structures, orthodontic appliances and complete removable acrylic dentures appliance construction.

    The Kenyan qualification also has similar objectives to those of the Bachelor of Health Science in Dental Technology, namely to:
    1. Generate and impart knowledge, skills and attitudes that are about effective recognition and response to Dental Technology challenges.
    2. Prepare learners academically and professionally for a career in Dental Technology.
    3. Produce competent graduates capable of conducting research and development. This is through critical analysis, problem-solving and lifelong learning.
    4. To develop and expand opportunities for individuals wishing to continue their education in the health science disciplines.
    5. Provide community service through consultation, advice, training, participation, moral and financial support to the community and other stakeholders.

    The international comparability study reveals that the Bachelor of Health Science in Dental Technology compares well with similar international qualifications.

    The BHSc in Dental Technology is a 4-year qualification incorporating all four disciplines of Dental Technology as required by the SADTC and aligns with international highest standards whilst simultaneously addressing the South African oral health care needs by incorporating workplace experience which is vital for solving real-world problems. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Health Sciences Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health, NQF Level 8.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Master of Health Sciences in Dental Technology, NQF Level 9. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.