Operating Department Practice BSc

Operating Department Practice is a highly specialised and essential part of modern healthcare.

Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) work as part of the multidisciplinary surgical team, supporting patients through the three critical phases of surgery: anaesthetic, surgical, and recovery. It is a hands-on, fast-paced profession that requires technical skill, compassion, and the ability to work under pressure.

If you're considering a career in the operating theatre, here's what you need to know about studying Operating Department Practice in the UK.

Studying Operating Department Practice in the UK

In the UK, ODPs are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The role is protected by law, meaning only those with approved qualifications and HCPC registration can practise.

Course Structure:

Most students study a BSc (Hons) in Operating Department Practice, usually completed over three years.

Some universities also offer two-year diploma routes or degree apprenticeships.

The course blends academic study with extensive clinical placements in operating theatres, anaesthesia, and post-operative care units.

What You'll Learn:

• Human anatomy and physiology

• Anaesthetic and surgical techniques

• Infection control and patient safety

• Pharmacology and emergency procedures

• Communication and teamwork in high-pressure environments

  
  

Entry Requirements:

• A-levels or equivalent, ideally including Biology or another science. Many institutions also accept relevant BTECs, access diplomas and other qualifications.

• GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science

• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and occupational health clearance

• A strong interest in surgery, patient care, and teamwork

Funding:

Eligible students can apply for the NHS Learning Support Fund, which offers a £5,000 non-repayable grant per year in England.

Tuition and maintenance loans are available through Student Finance.

After Graduation:

You must register with the HCPC to practise as an ODP.

You can work in NHS or private hospitals, including operating theatres, intensive care units, emergency departments, and maternity wards.

With experience, ODPs can progress into advanced roles such as Surgical Care Practitioner or Anaesthesia Associate, or into education, leadership, or research.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

An ODP degree provides both clinical and transferable skills, such as:

• Technical expertise: Assisting with anaesthesia, surgical procedures and recovery.

• Teamwork: Collaborating with surgeons, nurses and anaesthetists in high-pressure environments.

• Communication and empathy: Supporting patients through anxiety and recovery.

• Problem-solving: Responding quickly to emergencies and complex situations.

• Resilience and adaptability: Coping with the demands of a fast-paced clinical role.

• Leadership and organisation: Managing theatre equipment and patient safety.

Lighthearted or Accessible Reads for Aspiring ODP Students

“This is Going to Hurt” by Adam Kay

A funny, brutally honest memoir from a junior doctor in the NHS. It doesn’t cover ODP specifically, but it gives a great insight into hospital life, teamwork and the pressures of working in healthcare.

“Your Life in My Hands” by Rachel Clarke

A moving yet very readable account of life as a junior doctor, balancing the challenges of patient care with the human side of medicine.

“Confessions of a Male Nurse” by Michael Alexander

Entertaining and easy to read, this book shares the ups and downs of working in hospitals from a nursing perspective, which overlaps closely with ODP teamwork.

“Twas the Nightshift Before Christmas” by Adam Kay

A short, lighthearted follow-up to This is Going to Hurt, packed with funny, heartfelt stories from working hospital shifts over Christmas.