The University of Health Sciences, Punjab, has extended the duration of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme from four years to five years, according to a notification issued by the university.

Under the new policy, a five-year integrated BDS programme will be implemented in all dental colleges across Punjab from the 2025-26 academic session.

According to the notification, the revised curriculum has been developed in accordance with the standards set by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) and places special emphasis on clinical training, simulation laboratories and research.

University officials said that dental education in most countries already spans five years, and the decision is expected to improve the international recognition and acceptance of Pakistani dental degrees.

The University of Health Sciences has also proposed a bridging programme, or “top-up year”, for graduates who completed the previous four-year BDS programme, enabling them to obtain a qualification equivalent to the new five-year degree.

Experts said the move is expected to expand opportunities for Pakistani dentists seeking employment and higher education abroad.

Professor Ahsan Rathore said aligning dental education with international standards was the need of the hour, adding that the five-year BDS programme would also enhance students’ preparation for international licensing examinations.