BDS degree extended to five years across Punjab

The duration of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme has been increased from four years to five years in a major reform of dental education, with the new structure set to be implemented across all dental colleges in Punjab from the 2025-26 academic session, 24NewHD TV channel reported on Sunday.

According to the channel report, the University of Health Sciences (UHS) has issued an official notification confirming the change. The revised programme introduces a five-year integrated BDS curriculum in accordance with standards set by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council.

The updated curriculum has been designed to improve the quality of dental education and enhance the international recognition of Pakistani dental qualifications. The new programme places greater emphasis on clinical training, simulation laboratories and research, aiming to equip graduates with stronger practical and academic skills.

UHS has also proposed a bridging programme, or top-up year, for graduates who completed the previous four-year BDS degree. The initiative is intended to allow existing graduates to obtain a qualification equivalent to the new five-year degree.

Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Ahsan Waheed Rathore said the reform would create greater opportunities for Pakistani dentists seeking employment and higher education abroad. He added that aligning dental education with international standards had become increasingly important in a rapidly evolving global healthcare environment.

Professor Rathore described the change as a fundamental reform rather than simply an additional academic year. He said the five-year programme would also help students prepare more effectively for international licensing examinations and strengthen the global competitiveness of Pakistani dental graduates.

Reporter: Zahid Chaudhry