The prospective dentistry students were last week informed that their places in the course were no longer available due to being over-allocated.

However, they have taken up offers to re-enroll at the Bendigo campus for next year.

Faculty of Health Sciences dean Professor Hal Swerissen said discussions were ongoing, but more than half of the 34 students affected would be returning in 2013.

“La Trobe has offered these students a guaranteed place in the course for 2013 and $30,000 sponsorship over three years while they are enrolled in dentistry,” he said.

“To date, an overwhelming majority of students have agreed to take up La Trobe’s offer and a number are taking up options to study other subjects at La Trobe this year or to combine part-time study and work,” he said.

Professor Swerissen said all of the students had been contacted by telephone and letter, and every effort was being made by the university to support their decision.

“Many of the students and their families had been distressed when told the news,” he said.

“We are very sorry this has occurred and we have made every effort to explain what has happened and to provide assistance and advice on study options for this year.

“The university will conduct a thorough review to ensure that changes are put in place so that over enrolment in courses like dentistry cannot occur again.”