Operating Department Practice with Foundation Year (Hons) Canterbury Christ Church University

Overview

The Operating Department Practice with Foundation Year (Hons) at Canterbury Christ Church University offers a comprehensive route into a vital surgical career, starting with a supportive foundation year. This initial stage builds the essential academic skills and health concepts required to progress onto the full degree and excel in clinical environments.

Why Operating Department Practice with Foundation Year (Hons) at Canterbury Christ Church University?

Students benefit from training in state-of-the-art simulation suites that replicate real-world medical environments, including fully equipped operating theatres and scrub rooms. The programme is accredited by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), ensuring that the curriculum meets rigorous professional standards. A distinctive feature of this course is the inclusion of advanced clinical skills, such as surgical competences for the Surgical First Assistant role, which are typically only available through post-qualification study.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 17000 per year
• National fee: GBP 9790 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with extensive clinical practice, with approximately half of the study time spent on placement within NHS or private healthcare settings. Modules may include:

• The Big Question
• Success Modules
• Skills and Knowledge for Health and Social Care
• Fostering Social Connections
• Anaesthetic Practice
• Surgical Practice
• Post-anaesthetic Care
• Surgical First Assistant Competences
• Interdisciplinary Working
• Perioperative Practice

Careers with Operating Department Practice with Foundation Year (Hons)

Graduates are eligible to apply for professional registration with the HCPC, enabling them to work as Operating Department Practitioners in theatres across the UK. The programme boasts excellent employability, with 100% of students in work or further study 15 months after graduation according to recent surveys. While many secure Band 5 roles within the NHS or the private sector, others progress into specialist areas such as resuscitation training, transplant teams, or theatre management. The qualification is also recognised internationally, with alumni finding employment in countries such as Australia and New Zealand.