Master of Clinical Dentistry (MC-CLIND) // Attributes, outcomes and skills

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this course, graduates should be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of the basic biological, medical, technical and clinical sciences in order to recognise the difference between normal and pathological conditions relevant to their chosen discipline at a general dental practitioner level
• Exhibit advanced knowledge of the moral and ethical responsibilities involved in the provision of care to individual patients, populations and communities
• Evaluate and synthesise research and professional literature
• Manage competing demands on time, including self-directed project work
• Engage with new and emerging fields of study
• Demonstrate advanced capacity to articulate clinical knowledge and understanding in oral and written presentations
• Apply contemporary research findings and scientific method in evidence-based dental practice
• Capacity to value and participate in projects which require team-work

Generic skills

• work effectively as a member of a team
• have skills in interpersonal understanding, problem-solving, decision-making, program design and implementation, evaluation and advocacy
• demonstrate capacity and motivation for continuing independent learning and the capacity to maintain intellectual curiosity throughout life
• demonstrate professional skills and attitudes
• exhibit professional responsibility
• demonstrate the ability to locate, analyse, evaluate and synthesise information from a wide variety of sources in a planned and timely manner
• apply effective, creative and innovative solutions, both independently and co-operatively, to current and future problems
• be proficient in the appropriate use of contemporary technologies
• have an awareness of ethical, social and cultural issues within a global context and their importance in the exercise of professional skills and responsibilities
• value diversity in health beliefs, lifestyles, ethnic and cultural background

Graduate attributes

The competencies and qualities of the new MCD graduate have been developed in line with the different dimensions of patient-centred care outlined by the Dental Board of Australia for each specialty outlined here: http://www.dentalboard.gov.au/Registration/Specialist-Registration/Specialist-competencies.aspx.

The goal of the general practitioner dentist with advanced training is to improve the oral health of their patients and the community through appropriate preventive and oral health care, including behavioural and educational components. A MCD graduate has a knowledge, experience and clinical skill set that is at a higher level than that of the general practitioner The MCD graduate is often required to lead the team in the management of their patients’ oral health as it relates to their chosen discipline and integrates knowledge and experience with clinical competency to form a framework of comprehensive oral health care. MCD graduates have a responsibility to advocate for the oral health of the population.