UHS extends BDS programme to five-year in Punjab dental colleges

LAHORE: The University of Health Sciences (UHS) has officially extended the duration of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme from four to five years across all dental colleges in Punjab, aligning the curriculum with global dental education standards.

The UHS issued a formal notification announcing that the new five-year integrated BDS curriculum will take effect from the 2025–26 academic session.

“The restructured programme adheres strictly to the guidelines set by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC). By implementing this change, Punjab brings its dental education model in line with international protocols, as a vast majority of countries globally require a five-year degree program for dentistry practices,” the notification said.

The UHS said that the extension will significantly improve the international recognition and acceptance of Pakistani dental degrees, making it easier for graduates to pursue global opportunities.

“The revised five-year framework places an enhanced focus on clinical training, modern simulation laboratories, and advanced medical research,” the notification said.

“Aligning dental education with global benchmarks is the need of the hour,” said UHS Vice Chancellor Professor Ahsan Waheed Rathore.

He said that the comprehensive five-year structure will better equip Pakistani students to clear international licensing examinations and practice medicine effectively abroad.

To ensure that existing professionals and past students are not left at a disadvantage, the university announced the introduction of a dedicated bridging programme.

This initiative will allow older four-year BDS graduates to upgrade their qualifications to meet the equivalent standards of the new five-year degree.