This programme will suit highly motivated and enthusiastic individuals who have a specialist interest in the care of surgical patients. The BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice degree will equip you with the clinical and interpersonal skills and specialised knowledge required to plan, deliver and evaluate care to patients during the three phases of perioperative practice: anaesthesia, surgery and post-anaesthetic care.    

Whilst studying on this course you will spend time in our specialised clinical skills centre, which boasts state-of-the-art facilities and training equipment that is at the forefront of the sector. The time spent in this environment will help to develop all the key skills required for a successful career within the perioperative environment. Using simulation, practical sessions and workshops, you will be taught how to use a wide range of equipment safely for the caring needs of perioperative patients’.      

Approved by the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC), successful completion will allow you to apply to become a registered Operating Department Practitioner (ODP), a role that is in high demand both within the NHS and private sector.

As a Northumbria Operating Department Practice student you will learn to:

• Utilise excellent communication and interpersonal skills ensuring safe effective and compassionate care.
• Develop comprehensive Operating Department Practice abilities to assess, plan, implement and evaluate individualised, holistic, evidence based Operating Department Practice care.
• Develop team-working skills promoting collaboration and partnership with stakeholders.
• Promote the health and wellbeing of individuals, families and communities through raising awareness of health needs and facilitating health enhancing activities.
• Use lifelong learning and research skills to inform practice and facilitate ongoing continuing professional development.
• Demonstrate organisational, management and leadership skills in the delivery of high quality perioperative care.

You will graduate with a Bachelor of Science Degree (Honours) in Operating Department Practice which will open an array of future opportunities in both the public and private sector. Northumbria University works closely with local hospitals to ensure you have the best possible learning experience and career opportunities at the end of the programme.

The role of an ODP is rapidly changing and expanding and there are many more new and exciting opportunities for you to engage in on a local, regional, national and international level.

Although many ODPs primarily work within an operating department, there are also career opportunities in other areas such as:

• Advanced Practice Roles
• Robotic Surgery
• Critical Care
• Accident and Emergency
• Dental Departments
• Maternity Units
• Organ Transplant Teams
• X-Ray
• CT and MRI scan rooms
• Education and research.

Once qualified you will also have the option to expand your role and responsibilities to higher-level positions, such as a surgical care practitioner, surgical first assistant or anaesthesia associate.