Operating Department Practice (Extended Degree)

Would you like to work closely with surgeons, anaesthetists and other professionals to plan, deliver and evaluate the care of patients who are undergoing surgical or anaesthetic procedures?

This programme will suit highly motivated and enthusiastic individuals who have a specialist interest in the care of surgical patients. The BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice degree will equip you with the clinical and interpersonal skills and specialised knowledge required to plan, deliver and evaluate care to patients during the three phases of perioperative practice: anaesthesia, surgery and post-anaesthetic care.

Whilst studying on this course you will spend time in our specialised clinical skills centre, which boasts state-of-the-art facilities and training equipment that is at the forefront of the sector. The time spent in this environment will help to develop all the key skills required for a successful career within the perioperative environment. Using simulation, practical sessions and workshops, you will be taught how to use a wide range of equipment safely for the caring needs of perioperative patients’.

Approved by the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC), successful completion will allow you to apply to become a registered Operating Department Practitioner (ODP), a role that is in high demand both within the NHS and private sector.

Extended Degree
This extended degree provides an alternative route to higher education and supports those who don’t meet the standard entry requirements for an undergraduate degree. It includes a foundation year where you will explore a wide range of topics relating to health, education and social care.

What will I learn in my Foundation Year?
In the foundation year, you will establish a solid foundation in key debates, theory, and practice, while developing research skills relevant to health, education, and social care. You will deepen your understanding of the broader factors influencing health, education, and social care, and will learn the necessary skills to advance to the degree level.

The foundation year of the course delivered at level 3 which develops your ability to study in Higher Education is not accredited. Subsequent levels and years are accredited and deliver the knowledge, competencies, and skills required to meet the specific course accreditation requirements that relate to the approved accredited award title.

Joining the Northumbria means joining a business-focused, professional university with a global reputation for academic excellence. Northumbria are currently ranked Gold for student outcomes and Silver for overall teaching excellence (Teaching Excellence Framework 2023).

Located in Newcastle, Northumbria University is home to an enormous student population of 31,170, and consequently, some of the best nightlife scenes in the country! Newcastle also has one of the lowest costs of living in the country (We Buy Any Home, 2024), so you don't have to break the bank to have fun either!

There's truly something for everyone at Northumbria! You can make use of the fantastic facilities including the £30 million flagship Sports Central. And if exploring is more your thing? You're never far from beaches, stunning countryside and local history.

Find out more about Northumbria and get in touch today!