LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology (PgDFO)

The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology (PgDFO) is an advanced professional qualification designed for experienced dental practitioners and forensic specialists who wish to expand their expertise in the application of dental science to legal and investigative contexts. This programme provides learners with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to accurately analyse dental evidence, contribute to criminal investigations, and support legal proceedings with high professional standards.

This qualification is not intended for fresh learners; it is tailored for practising professionals seeking to enhance their career prospects, deepen their specialist knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) portfolio. Learners will explore advanced topics including bite mark analysis, human identification, age estimation, trauma assessment, and the medico-legal aspects of forensic dentistry.

The course combines theoretical study with practical application, ensuring learners develop the competence to handle forensic cases with precision and ethical responsibility. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, meticulous documentation, and the integration of forensic odontology within broader investigative and legal frameworks.

By completing the PgD in Forensic Odontology, learners will acquire the skills to contribute effectively to law enforcement, legal investigations, and forensic research. This qualification enhances professional credibility, supports career progression in forensic and dental specialities, and empowers learners to operate confidently in high-stakes, multidisciplinary environments. It is an ideal pathway for dental professionals committed to advancing their expertise and making a significant impact in the field of forensic science.

Course Overview

Qualification Title

LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology (PgDFO)

Total Units

6

Total Credits

120

GLH

600

Qualification #

LICQ2200700

Qualification Specification

Download Qualification Specification

To enroll in the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology (PgDFO) , applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
  • Educational Requirements: A recognised Bachelor’s degree in Dentistry (BDS or equivalent) from an accredited institution is required.
  • Experience: Applicants should have a minimum of two years post-qualification clinical experience in dentistry or a related forensic field. Experience in forensic odontology, dental identification, or medico-legal dental work is advantageous.
  • English Language Proficiency: Learners must demonstrate a high level of English proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking. Non-native English speakers may need to provide evidence through a recognized language test such as IELTS (minimum score of 6.0) or equivalent, or proof of prior education delivered in English.
  • Commitment to CPD
    This programme is designed for professionals actively engaged in Continuing Professional Development and willing to enhance their clinical skills and knowledge.
  • Access to Required Resources
    Learners should have access to a clinical or forensic facility for case studies and practical application. Access to digital learning platforms, professional literature, forensic databases, and research tools is essential.

Qualification#

Unit Title

Credits

GLH

LICQ2200700-1

Principles of Forensic Odontology

20

100

LICQ2200700-2

Human Identification and Dental Records

20

100

LICQ2200700-3

Bite Mark Analysis and Trauma Assessment

20

100

LICQ2200700-4

Age Estimation and Growth Assessment

20

100

LICQ2200700-5

Forensic Investigation and Legal Procedures

20

100

LICQ2200700-6

Clinical Practice, Case Management, and Research in Forensic Odontology

20

100

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Principles of Forensic Odontology

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Analyse the fundamental principles and scope of forensic odontology.
  2. Critically evaluate the historical development and current practices within the field.
  3. Apply professional and ethical standards to forensic dental practice.
  4. Integrate forensic odontology principles into investigative and legal contexts.

2. Human Identification and Dental Records

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Assess dental records and radiographs for accurate human identification.
  2. Apply techniques for identification in mass disaster, criminal, and medico-legal cases.
  3. Evaluate the accuracy and reliability of different identification methods.
  4. Maintain detailed and compliant documentation of forensic findings.

3. Bite Mark Analysis and Trauma Assessment

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Analyse bite marks and dental trauma using standard forensic techniques.
  2. Demonstrate correct methods for evidence collection and documentation.
  3. Critically evaluate bite mark and trauma evidence in legal proceedings.
  4. Apply best practices to ensure the admissibility of dental evidence in court.

4. Age Estimation and Growth Assessment

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Examine dental and skeletal indicators for age estimation.
  2. Apply radiographic and clinical techniques to assess dental development.
  3. Critically evaluate methods used in forensic age determination.
  4. Integrate age estimation findings into medico-legal case reports.

5. Forensic Investigation and Legal Procedures

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Analyse the processes involved in forensic investigations and case management.
  2. Prepare medico-legal reports in line with professional standards.
  3. Demonstrate understanding of court procedures and expert witness responsibilities.
  4. Communicate dental evidence effectively to legal professionals.

6. Clinical Practice, Case Management, and Research in Forensic Odontology

By the end of this unit, the learner will be able to:

  1. Apply forensic odontology knowledge to real-world case studies.
  2. Develop comprehensive management plans for forensic dental cases.
  3. Critically evaluate research methodologies relevant to forensic dentistry.
  4. Demonstrate evidence-based practice and professional decision-making in complex cases.

The LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology (PgDFO) is specifically designed for experienced dental professionals and forensic specialists who wish to apply advanced dental science within legal and investigative contexts. This programme is not intended for fresh learners; it targets practitioners seeking to enhance their professional expertise, expand their specialist knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) portfolio.

This course is ideal for:

  • Qualified dentists aiming to specialise in forensic odontology and contribute to criminal investigations.
  • Forensic scientists and dental experts seeking advanced skills in human identification, bite mark analysis, and trauma assessment.
  • Dental educators and researchers who wish to enhance teaching and research in forensic dental science.
  • Practitioners involved in medico-legal and legal proceedings, including expert witness work.
  • Professionals committed to evidence-based practice and the ethical application of forensic dental techniques.

Learners completing this programme will develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to analyse dental evidence, manage complex forensic cases, and provide accurate, legally defensible reports. This qualification also supports career progression, professional recognition, and leadership opportunities in forensic odontology and related multidisciplinary fields.

Centres delivering the LICQual Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology (PgDFO) must meet the following criteria to ensure high-quality training, assessment, and learner support:

  1. Accreditation and Approval
    • Must be an officially approved LICQual centre with valid accreditation to deliver Level 7 postgraduate dental qualifications.
    • Centres must comply with LICQual’s quality assurance and regulatory standards for forensic and dental education.
  2. Qualified and Experienced Staff
    • Trainers and assessors must hold recognised qualifications in dentistry and forensic odontology.
    • Faculty should have substantial clinical and forensic experience, including human identification, bite mark analysis, and medico-legal reporting.
    • Assessors must be trained in Level 7 assessment practices and internal verification procedures.
  3. Facilities and Resources
    • Access to forensic and dental facilities equipped for practical case studies, evidence analysis, and documentation.
    • Availability of forensic tools, imaging equipment, and secure storage for sensitive case materials.
    • Compliance with health, safety, and infection control regulations.
  4. Learning Resources
    • Provision of up-to-date academic materials, professional journals, and case studies in forensic dentistry.
    • Access to digital learning platforms for interactive study, simulations, and learner support.
  5. Assessment and Quality Assurance
    • Systems for practical, written, and oral assessments aligned with Level 7 standards.
    • Secure maintenance of learner records, assessment evidence, and verification documentation.
  6. Learner Support
    • Academic and pastoral support throughout the programme.
    • Guidance on CPD, professional development, and career progression in forensic odontology.

These requirements ensure that learners receive professional, evidence-based, and high-standard training in forensic odontology, enabling them to develop the skills, knowledge, and competence required for specialised practice in this field.

Assessment and Verification

All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.

To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.

Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.

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