2005:18 R

Evaluation of dentistry programmes and undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in odontology in Sweden

The evaluation comprised programmes leading to the award of qualifications in dentistry as well as licentiate and doctoral programmes offered at Göteborg University, Karolinska Institute, Malmö University College and Umeå University together with the master´s programmes at Karolinska Institute and Malmö University College.

The overall conclusion of the panel of assessors is that all the higher education institutions fulfil the quality criteria for higher education and the requirements for the award of a degree in dentistry. The National Agency endorses this judgement. The opinion of the panel is based on an appraisal made using the National Agency´s evaluation model and the quality aspects it applies in evaluating higher education. In addition to this, the panel has specifically devoted time and attention to an appraisal of the clinical quality of the programmes in dentistry.

In the introduction to its report, the panel accounts for the values and frame of reference that have provided the point of departure for the evaluation of quality. Each of the programmes offered by the institutions has been judged on these criteria. The panel expresses opinions about both the strengths and weaknesses of the programmes on the basis of the self-evaluations submitted by the odontological departments and the impressions formed during site visits. The departments are also given a number of recommendations to improve the quality of their programmes and to enhance the future standing of odontology both nationally and internationally. Finally the evaluation of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes is summarised in a number of general recommendations to support continued development of dentistry programmes and postgraduate programmes in odontology in Sweden.