Integrated Undergraduate and Graduate University Study in Dental Medicine

The integrated undergraduate and graduate university study program provides students with the necessary knowledge and skills to become doctors of dental medicine. The program's primary goal is to deliver a comprehensive education in biology, preclinical, clinical medical, and dental subjects.

Program Structure and Requirements

The six-year integrated study program consists of:

• 360 ECTS credits in total
• 5115 teaching hours, including:
  • 4565 obligatory teaching hours
  • 550 elective course hours (students must select courses to obtain 60 ECTS per year)
• Course distribution:
  • Preclinical practicals: 1001 hours
  • Clinical practicals: 2099 hours
  • Lectures and seminars: 2000 hours
• Total number of exams: 71, within 59 obligatory and 30 elective courses

Course Classification

The study program is divided into four main course groups:

• Basic courses: 805 hours (16% of total teaching hours)
• Preclinical courses
• General medical courses: 1015 hours (20%)
• Dental courses: 3295 hours (64%)

This structure ensures that students acquire fundamental medical knowledge while emphasizing dental courses and practical training.

Enhancements to Practical Training

Since the abolition of the formerly obligatory foundation year in 2015, an additional 500 hours of practical training have been integrated into the sixth year of study to enhance hands-on experience.

Further Education Opportunities

Graduates with a degree in dental medicine can continue their education by enrolling in postgraduate study programs, including doctoral or specialist studies.

Language and Enrollment

The integrated university study program has proven to be optimal in reaching the educational goals. The study program is organized in Croatian language for up to 90 students, with the planned student quota of 85 Croatian and EU students and 5 non-EU students.

Starting with the year 2017, we are enrolling up to 20 students in the study program fully taught in English.

The Importance of an Integrated Study Approach

Biomedicine, and dental medicine as an integral part of it, requires a broad range of knowledge spanning:

• Basic sciences
• Preclinical sciences
• Medical and dental subjects
• Social sciences

These diverse fields cannot be effectively covered through a two-segment study structure.

Dental Medicine: A Blend of Science and Art

Dental medicine is more than just a technical skill—it is a fusion of medical science and artistry. Competency in this field is developed gradually, through a combination of:

• Medical doctrine
• Hands-on practice
• Respect for professional principles

The study program emphasizes the importance of integrated, comprehensive patient care, ensuring that students develop into well-rounded and competent dental professionals.