Personal statement

Each applicant to study Dental Hygiene and Therapy at The University of Manchester must complete the UCAS personal statement.

What we look for

Work experience

We would like to see some work experience focused towards dentistry, but other types of work experience are also acceptable. It's really important that you are able to reflect appropriately on the work experience you've done. We want to see evidence that you understand the qualities and attributes required to become a healthcare professional.

We are trying to ascertain that you have a clear idea of what it is like to study dental hygiene and therapy and what the role of a hygienist or therapist entails. Tell us how you got involved in such work, how much time you spend doing it and, most importantly, what you have gained from it.

Hobbies and interests

Hygienists and Therapists must be able to communicate and empathise with their patients. This is enhanced by some shared life experiences.

Briefly, tell us about your interests and hobbies. Tell us why you pursue them and how much time you devote to them. Have you achieved any outside recognition (such as awards or certificates)?

We are aware that some students may have more opportunities than others to pursue a wide range of interests. The concern is not so much exactly what you do in your spare time, but that you have some spare time and that you do something with it.

Team working

Hygienists and Therapists work in multidisciplinary teams, and it is essential that you demonstrate that you have experience of working in teams and are knowledgeable about the advantages of a team approach to work and other activities.

Motivation for studying Dental Hygiene and Therapy

Your reasons for choosing to study dental hygiene and therapy may be obvious to you, but they are not obvious to us. The Admissions team has not met you and knows nothing about you, so please tell us how your personal experiences have influenced your decision to pursue a career in dental hygiene and therapy.