Operating Department Practice with Foundation Year

Do you want to play a key role in transforming patient care and making a real difference in people’s lives? Our BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice course prepares you to become an essential part of the surgical team, working alongside surgeons, anaesthetists and other healthcare professionals in perioperative environments.
Learn from experienced practitioners and develop the clinical knowledge, technical skills and confidence needed for practice using specialist simulation facilities and hands-on learning. You'll also complete placements across anaesthetics, surgery (scrub) and post-anaesthetic care, providing valuable real-world experience.
This degree is accredited by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC), meaning upon successful graduation you can apply for registration as a qualified Operating Department Practitioner (ODP).

Why Study BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice at BNU?

Fulfilling Career

Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) are registered Allied Health Professionals who play a vital role within operating departments and associated clinical environments. Working as part of multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses and healthcare support workers, ODPs provide high-quality care throughout the patient's perioperative journey. If you're looking for a rewarding healthcare career with real impact, Operating Department Practice could be the ideal choice.

Support at Every Stage

You'll receive dedicated support throughout your studies and placements. During clinical placements, you'll be supported by a BNU link lecturer, NHS practice educators, registered assessors and supervisors. On campus, personalised support from tutors and the wider teaching team will help you develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for professional practice.

Quality Teaching Reputation

BNU has a strong reputation for high-quality teaching and close partnerships with placement providers. Graduates leave well prepared for practice, with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to begin their careers as Operating Department Practitioners.

Accredited Course

On successful completion of the course, you'll be eligible to apply for registration as an Operating Department Practitioner with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), enabling you to practise in the UK.

Cutting-Edge Facilities

You'll have access to specialist clinical facilities, including a simulated operating theatre, anaesthetic room, recovery area and other perioperative environments equipped with high-fidelity simulation technology. You'll gain practical experience using industry-standard equipment including anaesthetic machines, surgical instruments, diathermy, cell salvage systems, laparoscopic simulators, operating tables and fibreoptic scopes.

Additional Funding

Eligible Operating Department Practice students may receive at least £5,000 per year through the NHS Learning Support Fund, which does not need to be repaid.

What Will I Study?

This Operating Department Practice degree prepares you for a career supporting patients throughout their perioperative journey. Through academic study and clinical placements, you'll develop the knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours required to become a qualified Operating Department Practitioner.

You'll learn to deliver safe, individualised patient care, work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, and gain experience across anaesthetic, surgical and post-anaesthetic practice. The course develops skills in clinical decision-making, patient advocacy, professionalism and the use of specialist equipment, with a strong focus on patient safety. You'll also have the opportunity to gain additional qualifications, including Immediate Life Support certification.

At Bucks New University, you'll benefit from career-focused teaching, hands-on learning and a supportive community that helps you thrive throughout your degree and beyond.

You'll learn from lecturers with industry experience, gain practical skills in professional-standard facilities and receive personalised support through smaller class sizes. Beyond your course, The Big Deal gives every student free access to sports clubs, societies, fitness facilities, social events, trips, volunteering opportunities and career-boosting workshops. It's Bucks way of helping you discover new interests, meet like-minded people, build your CV and make the most of university life – all without paying extra membership fees.

Whether you're preparing for your future career, growing your confidence or looking for an unforgettable student experience, Bucks offers the opportunities and support to help you achieve your goals.