Operating Department Practice

Operating department practice is the healthcare discipline concerned with the care of patients throughout the perioperative journey, encompassing the anaesthetic, surgical, and recovery phases of care. Operating department practitioners, known as ODPs, work alongside surgeons, anaesthetists, and nursing teams in theatres and procedure suites, performing tasks that range from preparing equipment and assisting with anaesthetic induction to scrubbing in for surgical procedures and supporting patients in recovery. The role demands clinical precision, detailed knowledge of procedures and equipment, and the communication skills to work effectively as part of a highly skilled multidisciplinary team under pressure.

At Sheffield Hallam University, this full-time programme includes a foundation year, providing a supported entry route for students who want to build their preparation before starting the main clinical degree. The programme develops the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to work safely and effectively in operating theatres and procedure areas. You will study anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and the clinical science underpinning anaesthetic and surgical practice, alongside the specific technical skills of the ODP role, including instrument handling, anaesthetic support, and post-operative recovery care.

Clinical placements are integrated throughout the programme, placing you in real theatre environments where you develop competence and confidence under supervision. The typical entry tariff is 120 UCAS points.

Registered ODPs are employed across the NHS and private healthcare sectors, working in operating theatres, obstetric suites, endoscopy units, and other procedure areas. The profession is consistently in demand, reflecting the continuing growth of surgical activity across healthcare. Career progression includes senior and specialist ODP roles, team leadership, advanced clinical practice, and progression into anaesthesia associate or surgical care practitioner roles with further training.

Postgraduate study in perioperative practice, healthcare leadership, or clinical specialisms provides further development options.