Program Overview

What is Operating Department Practitioner Apprenticeship BSc (Hons)?

This Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) Degree Apprenticeship develops the skills of 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 are responsible for delivering safe, high-quality care to surgical patients during the three phases of perioperative care – anaesthesia, surgery and in the Post-anaesthesia Care Unit (PACU).

Apprentice ODPs learn to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team alongside nurses, surgeons, anaesthetists, healthcare support workers and other professionals. Upon completion, learners are eligible to register with the HCPC and practise as an Operating Department Practitioner.

Study style

Learners study the core subjects of anatomy, physiology, and pathology in order to apply these to clinical situations. They 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. Learners spend approximately 50% of their time in clinical settings under the supervision of clinical mentors, who remains a source of support throughout the programme.

Apprentices have the opportunity to put theory into practice using state-of-the-art facilities to support their clinical skills, and use simulation equipment to develop their clinical skills in a safe environment.