Dental Technician

Program Description

Balanced theoretical and practical learning- A structured progression from basic to advanced lectures ensures a deep understanding of dental materials, techniques and innovations.
Integration of CAD/CAM technology - The curriculum emphasizes modern dental technologies, including extensive training in Exocad software and digital scanning workflows.
Updated curriculum - The program offers a constantly updated curriculum, which is in line with current trends and innovations in dental technology and prosthetics.
Scientific research opportunities- Students are encouraged to participate in academic research, contributing to the advancement of dental technology science.
Global career perspective - The program prepares graduates for a wide range of employment opportunities, both domestically and internationally.
Professional development and support - Career guidance and academic mentoring are provided throughout the program to foster long-term professional growth.
Labor market demand - Dental technicians are in high demand, with increasing employment opportunities and competitive salaries in a growing healthcare sector.
Art and science in practice - The program cultivates both the artistic mastery and scientific precision necessary to excel as a dental technician in today's digital age.

· Foreign academic staff - At Western Balkans University, students are guided by a highly qualified academic staff with national and international clinical and research expertise. Over 90% of the faculty members hold scientific degrees and academic titles, ensuring that students benefit from the latest teaching methodologies and resources. Dental technician students receive practical instruction from professors, dentists, prosthodontists and laboratory specialists, along with ongoing academic support and individual mentoring throughout their studies.

· Merit-based scholarships -Western Balkans University offers access to a range of competitive scholarship opportunities. Students can apply for Excellence Scholarships, Institutional Scholarships, Partner Institution Scholarships and the "New Perspectives" Scholarship, offering up to 100% tuition fee waivers to qualified applicants.

· Advanced laboratories - Students are trained in advanced laboratories equipped with modern dental technology, including CAD/CAM systems, 3D scanners, and Exocad software.

· Clinical and laboratory practice -Students have early and ongoing professional practice opportunities in collaboration with top-tier dental laboratories and clinics in Albania. Students engage in complex dental cases, patient trials, and real-world laboratory procedures.

· International curricula in English -The Bachelor's program in "Dental Technician" is offered entirely in English where students gain fluency in technical and clinical terminology, preparing them for global professional environments and further academic pursuits abroad.

· Innovation and scientific engagement -From the first year, students are encouraged to participate in research projects as well as academic conferences. The program supports innovation in dental materials, prosthetic design, and digital dentistry, fostering a research-oriented mindset.

During the three years of the Bachelor's program in "Dental Technician", students engage in an integrated theoretical and practical training, which prepares them to be skilled professionals in the field of dental technology. Each academic year is designed to build on previously acquired knowledge and to advance the technical and laboratory competencies of the students.

First year of studies – Knowledge in basic sciences

In the first year, students focus on building a strong scientific and technical foundation that supports the field of dental technology. Core courses include:

• Dental morphology

• Head and neck anatomy

• Basics of dental laboratory materials

• Medical physics and basic chemistry

• Computer science and foreign languages

• Elective courses such as digital photography or management and leadership

This phase aims to develop a fundamental understanding of the structure and function of the oral system and prepare students for the later practical phases.

Second year of studies – Practical Skills

The second year of studies marks the transition to more professionally and technically oriented subjects. Students begin to apply their knowledge practically in laboratories and simulation environments, through:

• Study of advanced dental materials (for ceramics, prosthetics, orthodontics)

• Techniques for the construction of removable and fixed prostheses

• Basics of chewing physiology and biochemistry

• Hygiene and infection control

• Skills in health data management and digitalization of laboratory work

This period aims to prepare students to work in real laboratory conditions and to engage in more advanced practical work.

Third year of studies – Professional Application in prosthetic works

The final year is focused almost entirely on practical and hands-on experience in the production of dental work. Students:

• Work in laboratories equipped with modern technology (e.g. CAD/CAM, digital scanners, 3D printers)

• Perform prosthetic work according to clinical standards

• Develop advanced skills in dental ceramics, orthodontics and laboratory implantology

• Collaborate with dental clinics to better understand patient needs through communication with dentists

• Prepare for the job market and the real challenges of the profession as a qualified dental technician.

At the end of the program, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in modern dental laboratories, collaborate with oral care professionals, and pursue further developments in their professional careers.

Mission, Vision & Objectives

Mission

Vision

Objectives

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities after graduation:

Graduates of the Bachelor's degree program in "Dental Technician" are well-equipped for their careers in the field of dental healthcare. The comprehensive curriculum, which combines theoretical knowledge with extensive practical training, prepares students for several professional job positions, including:

· Dental Technician- Graduates can work in dental laboratories, producing a wide range of dental prosthetics, such as crowns, bridges, dentures and orthodontic appliances.

· Dental laboratory manager-With a strong foundation in both technical and management skills, graduates can manage or own dental laboratories, overseeing production, staff, and client relations.

· CAD/CAM specialist- Graduates can specialize in digital dental technology, using CAD/CAM systems to design and manufacture high-quality dental restorations.

· Dental Prosthesis Consultant-Professionals can provide consulting services to dental clinics, offering expertise on materials and techniques for the design and construction of prosthetics.

· Orthodontic Technician- With specialized training in orthodontic technology, graduates can design and create orthodontic devices such as orthodontic appliances and braces.

· Implant Technician- Graduates can work in dental clinics and laboratories specializing in the production of dental implants and related components.

· Aesthetic Dentistry Specialist- For those interested in the cosmetic aspects of dentistry, graduates can specialize in the design and manufacture of aesthetic restorations such as veneers, crowns, and bridges.

· Researcher in Dental Technology- Graduates can engage in research and development of new materials, technologies and techniques in the field of dentistry.

· International Career Opportunities-
With qualifications recognized in the EU and beyond, graduates have the potential to work internationally, expanding their career opportunities globally.

Semester 1

No.	Code	Subject	ECTS
1	DET 101	Dental morphology and anatomy Mandatory	5
2	DET 103	Head and neck anatomy Mandatory	5
3	DET 105	Medical Physics Mandatory	4
4	DET 107	Dental laboratory materials and equipment I Mandatory	5
5	DET 109	Informatics Mandatory	5
6	DEN 111 / DET 112	Digital photography/ Management and leadership Elective	3
7	DET 115	Foreign language I (English, German, Italian, Latin) Mandatory	3

Semester 2

No.	Code	Subject	ECTS
1	DET 102	Dental laboratory materials and equipment II Mandatory	5
2	DET 104	Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry Mandatory	5
3	DET 106	Physiology of mastication Mandatory	4
4	DET 108	Health Data Management Mandatory	5
5	DET 110	Oral hygiene and infection control Mandatory	4
6	DEN 111 / DET 112	Digital photography/ Management and leadership Elective	4
7	DET 114	Foreign language II (English, German, Italian, Latin) Mandatory	3

Semester 1

No.	Code	Subject	ECTS
1	DET 201	Fixed Prosthodontics I Mandatory	5
2	DET 203	Removable prosthodontics - Complete denture Mandatory	4
3	DET 205	Physiopathology of mastication Mandatory	5
4	DET 207	CAD CAM System I Mandatory	5
5	DET 209	Head and neck radiology Mandatory	4
6	DET 211	Techniques of dental alloy Mandatory	4
7	DET 213	Dental technology practice I Mandatory	3

Semester 2

No.	Code	Subject	ECTS
1	DET 202	Fixed Prosthodontics II Mandatory	5
2	DET 204	Removable prothodontics - Partial denture Mandatory	4
3	DET 206	Oral histopalogy and periodontology Mandatory	5
4	DET 208	CAD CAM System II Mandatory	5
5	DET 210	Otorhinolaryngology and oral surgery Mandatory	4
6	DET 212	Dental Ceramics Elective	4
7	DET 216	Dental technology practice II Mandatory	3

Semester 1

No.	Code	Subject	ECTS
1	DET 301	Fixed dental prosthodontics I Mandatory	4
2	DET 303	Orthodontic technology I Mandatory	3
3	DET 305	Aesthetic Dentistry Mandatory	4
4	DET 307	Implantology Mandatory	3
5	DET 309	Removable prosthodontics - Complete denture I Mandatory	4
6	DET 311	Digital technology in dentistry I Mandatory	4
7	DET 313/DET 310	Comm. skills and medical ethics/Marketing for prof. practitioners Elective	4
8	DET 315	Dental technology practice III Mandatory	4

Semester 2

No.	Code	Subject	ECTS
1	DET 302	Removable prosthodontics - Complete denture II Mandatory	4
2	DET 304	Fixed dental prosthodontics II Mandatory	4
3	DET 306	Digital technology in dentistry II Mandatory	4
4	DET 308	Orthodontic technology II Mandatory	4
5	DET 313 / DET 310	Commun.skills & medical ethics / Marketing practices for prof. Elective	4
6	DET 312	Diploma Thesis/ Final Exam Mandatory	6
7	DET 314	Dental technology practice IV Mandatory	4