BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice

You will gain the key knowledge and skills to achieve what is both required and expected within the contemporary healthcare setting through classroom based teaching, use of our simulation suite, and clinical placement throughout the duration of study.

Demand is high. Operating Department Practitioners are sorely needed in hospitals all around the country. Operating Department Practitioners (ODP) are registered Allied Health Professionals (AHP) that are specifically trained and work within the Operating Department and associated areas. This incorporates working within a multi-disciplinary team providing high quality, individualised care for patients throughout their perioperative journey and beyond.

Working alongside other professionals, such as nurses, surgeons, anaesthetists and health care support workers, care will be delivered to patients during all three phases of this acute care environment. This is achieved through direct patient contact and care delivery, in addition to demonstrating a high level of knowledge/skill within the management of specialist equipment and materials related to this highly technical area. Patient safety is a priority within this field of care and ODP’s are required to demonstrate high standards in relation to professionalism, advocacy and decision making.

Although you will be employed within operating theatres, you’ll still be able to work in other areas. The theory and integrated practice that you learn throughout the course will help you work in a variety of clinical areas. These may include:
Trauma teams
Accident and Emergency departments
Resuscitation teams
Transplant teams
Intensive Care Units
Patient transfers
Research, education and training
Special Care Baby Units

A typical offer will require a UCAS Tariff score between 112-128 points; or an Access to Nursing qualification (minimum of 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction, 12 at Merit, and 3 at Pass).

You may find it easier if you have prior knowledge of health so we prefer if you have relevant A-levels, such as Biology, Health and Social Care, Chemistry, Psychology, Physics, Physical Education, and Sociology, however, it is not essential.

In addition, you will require five GCSEs including Maths, English and Science at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent).