Dental Technician

·         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.

 

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.

 

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.

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.