Operating Department Practice Studies (Hons) Teesside University

Overview

Over the 3-year Operating Department Practice Studies (Hons) course from Teesside University , you work within the entire perioperative environment across a variety of surgical specialities. You assist anaesthetists and surgeons alongside the wider multidisciplinary team and gain experience in various NHS and private hospitals.

Key Facts

This patient-centred course equips you with the knowledge, skills and understanding to contribute to healthcare delivery in a dynamic and fast-moving surgical environment. Graduates of the course will be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Gain practice and experience across a variety of perioperative areas including general surgery, orthopaedic surgery, ear, nose and throat, obstetric surgery, anaesthetic and post-anaesthetic care. Over 50% of the course is spent in hospitals on a rotation basis throughout the North East, alongside experienced clinical staff and previous Teesside ODPs. 

You follow various shift patterns including nights and weekends to gain the maximum learning experience. You are supported by evidence-based learning in lectures, seminars and practical activities in the clinical skills labs and simulated operating theatre. Your learning is underpinned and enhanced by the academic team who have decades of collective experience in theatre settings.

Career opportunities

A qualified ODP is trained in all areas of theatre work and can specialise in surgery, anaesthetics or post-anaesthetic care. New areas of practice are also opening up to the ODP such as accident and emergency, intensive care units and specialist theatres. Career opportunities exist within NHS hospital trusts and private hospitals, primary care trust clinics and the armed forces.

You can progress to postgraduate study to develop to an advanced role and surgical care practitioner skills alongside surgeons. You can also develop your role through teaching, or pursue theatre management roles.