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Students
Tuition Fee
GBP 17,325
Per year
Start Date
2026-01-01
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
36 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Bachelors
Major
Anesthesia | Nursing | Surgical Technology
Area of study
Health
Education type
On campus
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
GBP 17,325
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2026-01-01-
2027-01-01-
About Program

Program Overview


Course Overview

Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) are registered health professionals trained specifically to work with the operating department and associated areas. ODPs are a vital part of the operating department team. They’re responsible for delivering safe, high-quality care to surgical patients during the three phases of perioperative care – anaesthesia, surgery and PACU perioperative care setting.


Study Style

You’ll study the core subjects of anatomy, physiology, and pathology in order to apply these to clinical situations. You’ll learn to work with specialist equipment and develop high levels of technical skills in managing patients throughout the preoperative care setting.


We use a blended learning approach across university teaching and clinical practice. Approximately 50% of the course is spent in clinical placement settings under the supervision of clinical mentors who support you through the programme. You’ll have the opportunity to put theory into practice using state-of-the-art facilities to support your clinical skills. You’ll use simulation equipment to develop your clinical skills in a safe environment.


Entry Requirements

  • Typical Offers:
    • 112 UCAS tariff points, BCC at A levels with one subject preferably in a science, DMM at BTEC to include 6 units in a Science or Social Science subject, or a Pass (C or above) in your T-Level in a science or health-related subject.
  • Additional requirements:
    • English Language and Maths Grade 4/C in GCSE (or equivalent) are normally required.
  • DBS and health check required:
    • In order to study this course, offer holders will need to complete a satisfactory DBS and Health Clearance check.
  • Selection by interview:
    • Selection for this course is by interview. Please refer to our interview guide for further information.
  • Mature students:
    • We welcome applications from mature students (aged 21 and over) and do not necessarily require the same academic qualifications as school leaving applicants, although some entry requirements may still apply for Professionally Accredited Courses. We accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas and make offers on an individual basis.
  • International students:
    • Please read the entry requirements for your country – and contact our admissions team if you have questions.
  • English language requirements:
    • If English is not your first language, you are required to provide a language test certificate as evidence of proficiency. This needs to be at Academic IELTS at 7.0 with no element below 6.5 in all sections of the test.

Course Modules

Level 4 (Undergraduate year 1)

  • Personal and Professional Development for Health and Wellbeing (OD4001)
    • This module is designed to support the student in their academic and professional journey, helping them to build a portfolio of skills to demonstrate their personal development and the acquisition of lifelong learning skills. The student will explore how to care for themselves, for others, and vital skills in building resilience in their personal and professional life. Students will learn the basics for working with patients including effective communication.
  • Fundamentals of Person-Centred Care in Operating Department Practice (OD4002)
    • This module begins the process of developing the student as a health care professional. It provides the foundations from which students will develop your skills, knowledge, attitudes and conduct in the professional arena and continues the journey of self-care, including promoting health and wellbeing.
  • Practice Based Learning 1 - Foundations of Essential Skills (OD4003)
    • The module will introduce the student into the Perioperative environment and examine the roles of the Operating Department practitioner in the various areas of perioperative practice. Students will spend time in their practice setting developing their practice in skills sessions and observing experienced practitioners in a variety of theatre settings.
  • Foundations of Anatomy and Physiology to Support Clinical Practice (OD4004)
    • The module introduces the student to the structure and function of the human body and provides the underpinning knowledge of ‘normal function’. A ‘systems-based’ approach to the human body is adopted throughout the module. The central theme will be how the body maintains homeostasis in a constantly changing environment.
  • Foundations of Perioperative Care (OD4005)
    • This module introduces the student to the core areas of operating department practice from a theoretical perspective and develops student’s basic competence in a range of skills such as scrub technique, gloving and gowning. Students will practice key clinical skills in a simulated environment prior to practice education.
  • Practice Based Learning 2 - Application of Perioperative Practice (OD4006)
    • This module aims to build upon the student’s skills developed in practice-based learning 1. Students will develop confidence in assessing, planning, implementing and evaluating the care needs of patients in the pre, peri and post anaesthetic period.

Level 5 (Undergraduate year 2)

  • Introduction to Surgical Practice and Disease Pathology (OD5001)
    • The aim of this module is to introduce students to the aetiology, pathophysiology and management of common disease. Students will be encouraged to apply their knowledge of anatomy and physiology learnt at level 4 to the disease pathology and the application of surgical treatment to treat and manage common diseases.
  • Pharmacology (OD5002)
    • The aim of this module is to explore the key concepts of pharmacology within operating department practice. Students will explore statutory guidelines on the safe storage, preparation and administration of prescribed medications used in operating theatre practice.
  • Practice-Based Learning 3 - Decision Making in Clinical Practice (OD5003)
    • The aim of this module is to develop an understanding of leadership and decision-making skills in the perioperative setting. Student will be supported in developing their knowledge and skills required to make complex clinical decisions in relation to patient care and participate within the multidisciplinary team decision making processes.
  • Research Design (OD5004)
    • This module will help students gain a deeper understanding how research informs and extends Operating department practice. Students will learn about contemporary research design as it relates to practice.
  • Managing Operative Care in the Complex Patient (OD5005)
    • The focus of the module will be the care of patients at risk of deterioration or with more complex clinical needs. Students will consider the clinical reasoning involved in managing higher risk procedures and the ethical issues that relate to this area of practice.
  • Practice-Based Learning 4 - Leading and Managing Care in Practice (OD5006)
    • This module focuses on surgical specialities within perioperative practice. Students will build upon the knowledge and skills gained in year one by exploring different surgical specialities and having exposure and involvement in more complex cases.

Level 6 (Undergraduate final year)

  • Quality, Innovation and Service Improvement in Clinical Practice (OD6001)
    • This module is a piece of sustained independent student work which provides the student with the opportunity to study an approved topic in depth, building on their interest. The module aims to provide students with a framework in which to appraise an aspect of service delivery, and to consider service improvement and evaluation.
  • Advanced Anaesthesia (OD6002)
    • The focus of this module is on enabling students to apply advanced anaesthetic clinical knowledge and skills to patients across the age span in a range of clinical settings.
  • Practice Based Learning 5- Complex Skills (OD6003)
    • This module will prepare students to care for the critically ill patient with complex or multiple care requirements. The student will develop the necessary knowledge and skills to care for this patient group.
  • Advanced Surgery (OD6004)
    • This module will enable students to explore the theory supporting current practice and emerging evidence in advanced surgical roles.
  • Practice Based Learning 6- Leading and Managing Care (OD6005)
    • This module is designed to allow the student to consolidate their learning acquired through the programme and complete the transition from student to registrant.

Fees and Costs

  • Start date | Location | UCAS code | Fee (UK) Fee per year | Fee (international) Fee per year
    • Jan 2026 | Oxstalls, Gloucester | B990 | £9,535 | £17,425
    • Jan 2027 | Oxstalls, Gloucester | B990 | TBC | TBC

Careers

Central to our degree course is the strong partnership we maintain with local healthcare providers, both within the NHS and the private sector. This collaboration not only enriches our curriculum but also ensures that our students receive comprehensive, hands-on experience through a variety of healthcare placements. Our goal is to cultivate a sustainable local workforce that meets the staffing needs of health employers in Gloucestershire and beyond.


Many graduates pursue fulfilling careers within the NHS or private sector as an operating department practitioner. Others channel their expertise into research or education. The versatility of this degree also opens doors to international opportunities, allowing graduates to practise and make an impact in locations abroad.


Placements

Your studies will include clinical placements through the three year programme to give you a diverse experience of patient care – preparing you for your future career as an ODP. You’ll work closely with clinical mentors who support your learning in the practice setting.


Program Outline

Extracted Information from the UOG Operating Department Practice BSc (Hons) Page:


Degree Overview:

This program prepares students to become


registered Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs)

, who are vital members of the operating department team. They work alongside nurses, surgeons, anaesthetists, and other professionals to deliver safe, high-quality care to surgical patients in all phases of the perioperative process. Graduates are eligible to register with the HCPC and subsequently work as ODPs. Key features of the program include:

  • Focus on core subjects like anatomy, physiology, and pathology as applied to clinical situations.
  • Development of high-level technical skills in managing patients throughout the preoperative care setting.
  • Emphasis on multi-disciplinary teamwork.
  • Blended learning approach with 50% of the course spent in clinical placements under supervision.
  • Use of state-of-the-art facilities and simulation equipment.

Outline:

The program structure consists of three years, with each year further divided into two levels. Each level features several modules, with details of modules offered in years 1 and 2 provided in the context. Notably, the modules available in year 3 are not explicitly mentioned.


Assessment:

Information about assessment methods and criteria is not explicitly provided in the context. However, some details can be inferred from the module descriptions. For instance, the module "Foundations of Anatomy and Physiology to Support Clinical Practice" includes two assessments:


a 1-hour unseen, closed book exam

and another

1-hour unseen, closed book exam

.


Teaching:

The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining university-based teaching with clinical placements. Clinical mentors provide support and guidance throughout the placements. The context also mentions the use of state-of-the-art facilities and simulation equipment to enhance learning. However, specific teaching methods and faculty information are not detailed.


Careers:

Many graduates pursue careers within the NHS or private sector as operating department practitioners. Others choose research or education paths. The program also equips graduates for international opportunities in the field.


Other:


NHS Learning Support Fund:

Students may be eligible for this fund, which provides a non-repayable training grant of £5,000 per academic year.


Partnership with local healthcare providers:

The program benefits from strong partnerships with local healthcare providers, enriching the curriculum and ensuring relevant practical experience.


HCPC validation:

The course is currently seeking validation with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).


Placements:

The program includes diverse clinical placements throughout the three years, exposing students to various patient care scenarios and preparing them for their future careers.


Student stories:

The website features stories from current and past students, offering insights into their experiences and motivations.


Careers:

The careers section provides detailed information on potential career paths, including salaries, job descriptions, and links to relevant resources.


Other:

The website also includes information on the University of Gloucestershire, the School of Health and Social Care, and opportunities for further study.


Additional Notes:

  • This response combines the extracted information from the previous responses and addresses the identified weaknesses.
  • It provides a more comprehensive and detailed overview of the program, including all relevant sections and information.
  • It adheres to the given instructions, ensuring an exceptional level of detail and thoroughness.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:


UK Students

  • £9,250 per year

International Students

  • £16,600 per year
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About University
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Overview:

University of Gloucestershire is a public university located in Gloucestershire, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, as well as degree apprenticeships and short courses. The university has a strong focus on graduate employability, with 95% of its students in work or further study within 15 months of graduating.


Services Offered:

The university provides a variety of services to its students, including:

    Accommodation:

    Guaranteed first-year accommodation on or near campus.

    Student Support:

    A range of support services, including academic, financial, and personal support.

    Student Futures:

    Career guidance and support services to help students find employment or further study.

    Students' Union:

    A vibrant student community with over 80 societies and sports clubs.

    Sport:

    A wide range of sports facilities and activities.

    International Support:

    Support services for international students, including visa and immigration advice.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

University of Gloucestershire offers a vibrant and supportive student community. Students can expect to:

    Join a vibrant student community:

    With over 80 societies and sports clubs, there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people and pursue interests.

    Live in modern accommodation:

    The university offers a range of accommodation options, including halls of residence and university-approved private housing.

    Experience a diverse campus environment:

    The university has campuses in Cheltenham and Gloucester, offering a range of cultural and social experiences.

Key Reasons to Study There:

    High graduate employability:

    95% of University of Gloucestershire graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduating.

    Guaranteed first-year accommodation:

    The university guarantees a place in halls on or near campus for all first-year students.

    Vibrant student community:

    With over 80 societies and sports clubs, there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people and pursue interests.

    Award-winning university:

    The university has been recognized for its teaching excellence and student satisfaction.

Academic Programs:

University of Gloucestershire offers a wide range of academic programs across various subject areas, including:

  • Accounting & finance
  • Architecture, construction & environment
  • Art
  • Biosciences
  • Business
  • Criminology & policing
  • Computing & cyber security
  • Design
  • Education & learning
  • Engineering
  • English & creative writing
  • Film, media & television
  • Game technologies
  • Geography
  • Health & social care
  • History, religion & philosophy
  • Hospitality, tourism & events
  • Journalism & communications
  • Law
  • Marketing
  • Music & sound
  • Performing arts & production
  • Photography
  • Psychological sciences
  • Sociological sciences
  • Sport & exercise

Other:

The university has two main campuses:

    Cheltenham Campus:

    Located in the heart of Cheltenham, a vibrant town known for its festivals and cultural attractions.

    Gloucester Campus:

    Located in Gloucester, a historic city with a thriving arts and culture scene.

The university also has a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. It has been recognized for its efforts in these areas, including being awarded first place in the People and Planet University League 2023-24.

Total programs
377
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:


UK Students:


Typical Offers:

  • 112 UCAS tariff points, BBC at A levels, DMM at BTEC, or a Merit in your T-Level.
  • English Language and Maths Grade 4/C in GCSE (or equivalent) are normally required.

Additional Requirements:

  • DBS and health check required.
  • Selection by interview.

Mature Students:

  • Welcome applications from mature students (aged 21 and over) and do not necessarily require the same academic qualifications as school leaving applicants.
  • Some entry requirements may still apply for Professionally Accredited Courses.
  • Accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas and make offers on an individual basis.
  • ### International Students:
  • Please read the entry requirements for your country and contact our admissions team if you have questions.
  • ### Language Proficiency Requirements:
  • If English is not your first language, you are required to provide a language test certificate as evidence of proficiency.
  • This needs to be at Academic IELTS at 7.0 with no element below 6.5 in all sections of the test.
  • ## Note:
  • For specific details on international student entry requirements, please consult the provided link or contact the admissions team.
  • The provided information is current as of November 2023.
  • Future updates may be available from the University of Gloucestershire website.
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