COURSE CURRICULUM

The Operating Department Practice course is structured over three years and is designed to progressively develop students' knowledge, clinical skills, and professional competencies required for work within the perioperative environment. In the first year, students establish a strong foundation in evidence-based healthcare, human physiology, professionalism, and the principles of perioperative care while beginning their clinical practice experience as Operating Department Practitioner students. The second year focuses on developing more advanced clinical decision-making skills, understanding perioperative pharmacology, and expanding practical experience within surgical environments through continued clinical placements and perioperative practice modules. During the final year, students further enhance their expertise in advanced perioperative practice while developing leadership, service improvement, mentoring, and coaching skills that prepare them for professional responsibilities after qualification. Students also complete an independent dissertation project to strengthen their research, analytical, and evidence-based practice abilities. Throughout the programme, students engage in lectures, seminars, workshops, and extensive practical training within a realistic simulated theatre suite using advanced simulation technologies such as SimMan. Assessment methods include examinations, practice portfolios, poster presentations, and written assignments, ensuring students develop both academic and practical competencies. The curriculum combines university learning with substantial clinical placement experience to prepare graduates for registration and successful careers within operating departments and surgical environments. Module availability may vary depending on the academic year.