Career Pathway FAQs
What is the Career Pathway?
The Career Pathway is a career development programme devised and supported by the Faculty. The Pathway aims to provide learning and support throughout the career of the general dental practitioner (GDP), eventually leading to the Fellowship of the Faculty – the FFGDP(UK).
The Career Pathway:
- Provides the route to Fellowship of the Faculty
- Provides a structure for ongoing professional development
- Works through the accumulation of credits gained by completing Faculty and accredited non-faculty courses, diplomas and exams
- Provides a route based on your experience in practice.
How do I get started?
You must complete the foundation stage which is usually the Diploma of Membership of the Joint Dental Faculties at The Royal College of Surgeons of England – the MJDF RCSEng.
Or alternatively...
Holders of MCCD, M ClinDent or an MSc or MPhil/PhD in a dental discipline can satisfy the requirements of the Foundation stage by completing the the MJDF Portfolio of Evidence.
If you have been qualified for ten years or more, you can complete the foundation stage by completing the MJDF Portfolio of Evidence and providing an up to date CV.
What's next?
Throughout the next stage of the Career Pathway you need to accumulate 120 credits of which 60 should be in a clinical discipline, 30 in practice management and 30 'other' credits (which can be from a clinical or management area, or alternatively from another area such as research or education and training).
Where do I get my credits from?
You can gain credits by participating in a number of taught postgraduate programmes from institutions across the UK. Have a look at the list of programmes currently accredited towards the Career Pathway to see which courses you can take.
What is at the end of the Career Pathway?
Stage 3 is the assessment for the Fellowship of the Faculty - the FFGDP(UK). Once you have achieved 180 credits, you can put yourself forward for Fellowship assessment. The Fellowship demonstrates that you have reached the pinnacle of your profession.
Can I start the Career Pathway at any age?
Yes, as long as you are a qualified dentist.
How long does it take?
The Career Pathway can be completed in as little as five years. But you can do it at your own pace over a number of years if you prefer.
How would my patients benefit from me gaining the FFGDP(UK)?
They benefit from your enhanced skills. The FFGDP(UK) proves your commitment to achieving excellence in primary dental care.
How do I benefit from the Career Pathway?
Increasingly both patients and employers demand additional qualifications. The Career Pathway is the ideal way to facilitate the development of your career.
Do I have to be a member of the FGDP(UK) to participate on the Pathway ?
Yes, you do have to be a member of the FGDP(UK) to be formally registered on the Career Pathway and to enter the Fellowship assessment. Find out more about joining the Faculty.
How much will it cost me to register on the Career Pathway?
There is no extra charge to be registered on the Pathway, although registrants will be paying Faculty membership fees and fees for their qualifications.
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