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Operating Department Practice (ODP)
- Study level:
- Undergraduate
- Awarded by:
- University of South Wales (Prifysgol De Cymru)
Course summary
Our Operating Department Practice degree is aimed at individuals who have an interest in anaesthetics, surgery and patient care and wish to work in operating departments or any other healthcare settings where anaesthetic or surgical intervention is required.
You will learn about perioperative practice, supporting a wide range of functions including preparation of patients and facilities, working alongside surgeons to ensure safe and effective practice, and dignified and respectiful care.
Operating departments have a special place in healthcare practice, instantly recognised as highly specialist and skilled facilities that fulfil a crucial role in managing a wide range of conditions. Their safe and effective function relies on a wide team, within which operating department practitioners assume a central role.
Graduates will be eligible for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council and membership of the College of Operating Department Practitioners to enable them to practice as a qualified Operating Department Practitioner bringing a wide range of employment opportunities (subject to HCPC and relevant College approval).
The course is designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge required to practice as an Operating Department Practitioner. Modules studied help develop a core underpinning knowledge of the medical sciences, involve interprofessional learning and working to enable the highest quality integrated practice, and deliver the fundamental skills required by the Operating Department Practitioner.
Modules focusing on the basic and medical sciences, cover the layout, equipment and instrumentation associated with patient preparation, anaesthesia, and surgical practice. This knowledge, and the associated skills, are developed throughout all levels of the programme to underpin the management of increasingly complex situations.
Unfortunately as this course is funded by the NHS and students have to have placements in the local NHS Health Board we are unable to accept applications from overseas (Non EU) students.
This course is recognised by Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and endorsed by the College of Operating Department Practitioners (CODP).
How to apply
Apply by
14 January
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- B992
- Institution code:
- W01
- Campus name:
- Pontypridd
- Campus Code:
- A
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Chat to student ambassadors
Discover what it's like to study Operating Department Practice (ODP) at University of South Wales: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.
POWERED BY 
Anodiwa
University of South WalesBSc (Hons) Psychology with Developmental DisordersHello! I’m Anodiwa, a 2nd year Psychology with Developmental Disorders student from Zimbabwe. I absolutely love my degree, it’s so interesting and rewarding and I’m so grateful that USW offers the Developmental Disorders minor, as that’s my main line of interest. I stay off campus, yet Treforest still gives off that close-knit student-town vibe. Everything is close together, the views are beautiful, and it’s great for hikes when you need a break from school!! I moved from Zim to Wales last year and acclimatised really well, everyone here is so friendly, and I’ve felt right at home since day one. If you’re curious about the course, life at USW, or just want a real take on being a student here, I’m always happy to chat! Kirsty
University of South WalesBSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology and Criminal JusticeMy name is Kirsty, and I'm a 23-year-old third year student pursuing a degree in Psychology with Criminology and Criminal Justice. I've previously worked as a qualified childcare practitioner. My interests lie in understanding human behavior, and in my free time, I enjoy reading, working out, and having fun. I'm currently learning Spanish and Welsh, and I'm also a young carer for my grandmother. If anyone else is in a similar situation, I'd be happy to share my experiences, especially if they're trying to attend university while caring for someone. As a local student, I commute to the University, and I also have dyslexia, which makes it challenging to understand coursework. However, I've developed practical techniques to overcome these hurdles and am willing to share them with anyone who might benefit. After completing my degree, I plan to pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and eventually become a lecturer in South Wales. Millissa
University of South WalesBA (Hons) Performance and MediaHi my name is Millissa and I am a second year Performance and Media student at the University of South Wales. I currently live in student accommodation and would be happy to answer any questions about that 😊 I also am interested in all things performing arts and media based!!! Chloe
University of South WalesBA (Hons) English and Creative WritingHi I'm Chloe, a 27 year old student ambassador. When I finish this degree I am hoping to do a postgraduate degree in Film Screenwriting or a PHD in English. I want to be a novel writer and/ or go into the publishing industry. However, I'm still discovering my options. I live in the University Mountain Halls and I love to read any books that interest me such as Percy Jackson, The Hunger Games and more. I love movies such as Ghostbusters, The Conjuring Movies and others that interest me. Anything I can do to help just give me a text. I'm here to help you with whatever questions or queries you have. Princess
University of South WalesMSc Forensic Audit and AccountingI am someone who is deeply passionate about reading, learning new things and researching. I hold a BSc in Accounting and an MSc in Forensic Audit and Accounting in view. I am on a mission to earn my professional certifications as a forensic accountant, not limited to but including the ACFE and ACCA bodies, which is one of my key future goals. I genuinely love helping others and putting them first, and I believe in making a difference through supporting and uplifting my community. As an ambassador, I am here to bring enthusiasm, dedication and a little bit of my forensic mindset into everything we do together. I am just a click away and readily accessible to provide support at any time. Jessica
University of South WalesLLM Legal PracticeHello! Im Jessica, I am a second year part-time masters student, studying the Legal Practice Course. I am interested in a range of legal areas, with a particular focus on international human rights law, especially concerning women's rights. I currently live in student accommodation on the USW treforest campus. I am a representative of the Bar Society and a member of USW formula student team and the Rocketry and Christian Societies. I am happy to answer any questions you may have :) Kate
University of South WalesBA (Hons) EducationShwmae! I'm Kate a 19 year old student ambassador and navigator currently studying at USW Newport campus :) I studied on the BA ITE course my first year, and am now studying on the BA Education course, so am happy to help with questions on either! I'm happy to answer questions on it all! Classes, Newport accommodation, and all there is to do whilst your at uni (other than study, obviously!) Niquita
University of South WalesBachelor of Midwifery (Hons) Registered MidwifeI have a passion to support, advocate for woman and their families. I enjoy to encourage fellow students and help them should they need any assistance. Christ is extremely important to me and sharing my faith is something I am passionate about. Kavya
University of South WalesBSc (Hons) Medical SciencesHey, nice to meet you! I'm Kavya, a 3rd year Medical Sciences student at the University of South Wales. Feel free to ask me anything about uni, student life, or just generally my experience, I’m more than happy to share! I enjoy learning about medicine and the mysteries of the brain. When I’m not studying, you can usually find me dancing, practicing martial arts or hanging out with friends and eating good food :D Oluseyi
University of South WalesMSc Pharmaceutical ChemistryMy name is Ojo, Oluseyi. I am a masters degree student studying pharmaceutical chemistry at University of South Wales. I am also a STEM ambassador for the University. I am passionate about the quality assurance of products and services having worked in manufacturing for over 7 years. It would be my pleasure to chat and answer all prospective students questions relating to studies, scholarships, student life, accommodation and other necessary information. Ashleigh
University of South WalesBSc (Hons) Criminology and Criminal Justice with PsychologyIm a 3rd Year Criminology and Criminal Justice with Psychology student at the University of South Wales. I enjoy reading and football among other things. I am the treasurer of the Psychology society.
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - Not accepted
A level - BBC
To exclude General Studies
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - DMM
Access to HE Diploma - D: 18 credits M: 24 credits P: 39 credits
Science/Maths/Health Care/Nursing Diploma.
GCSE/National 4/National 5
The University normally requires a minimum 5 GCSEs including Mathematics/Numeracy and English at Grade C or Grade 4 or above, or their equivalent, but consideration is given to individual circumstances.
Equivalent qualifications considered are Essential Skills Level Two in Communication and Application of Number, or Functional Skills Level Two in English and Mathematics. (Must be achieved since 2016).
T Level - M
Passing the T Level with a Merit overall.
Find out more about qualification requirements for this course.
Additional entry requirements
- Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland)
- An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check on the Child & Adult Workforce and Child and Adult Barring Lists and subscription to the DBS Update Service (no offences are considered spent).
- Interview
- One satisfactory reference is required. Applicants are required to attend an interview. You will be required to demonstrate a real insight to, and enthusiasm for, the discipline. You should learn as much as you can about the profession, including where practitioners practice, and their role in modern healthcare. You must also demonstrate insight to your organisational skills and ability to effectively manage your studies.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall with no lower than 5.5 in any one component.
Unfortunately as this course is funded by the NHS and students have to have placements in the local NHS Health Board we are unable to accept applications from overseas (Non EU) students.
USW English Language Requirements https://www.southwales.ac.uk/international/courses/ielts-english-programmes-requirements/
Historical entry grades data BETA
This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.
- Data from:
- This course and 3 other allied health courses
- Date range:
- 2022-2024
Grades held by accepted students
- AAA
- Highest grades
- CCD
- Lowest grades
Offer rate for UK school & college leavers
Students aged 17/18 who applied to this course were offered a place.
How do you compare?
See how students with your grades have been accepted onto this course in the past.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)
Go onto work and study
The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Location | Fee | Year |
|---|---|---|
| EU | £9790 | Year 1 |
| England | £9790 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9790 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9790 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9790 | Year 1 |
| International | £16200 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website.
Additional fee information
Students have access to a wide range of resources including textbooks, publications, and computers in the University’s library and via online resources. In most cases they are more than sufficient to complete a course of study. Where there are additional costs, either obligatory or optional, these are detailed on the University website (on individual course pages). Of course students may choose to purchase their own additional personal resources/tools over and above those listed to support their studies at their own expense. All stationery and printing costs are at a student’s own expense.
Students from Wales and the EU may be eligible for a means-tested Welsh Government Learning Grant. Please visit the University website for full details.
University of South Wales
Llantwit Road
Treforest
Pontypridd
CF37 1DL
Course contact details
Enquiries and Admissions Team
Email:enquiries@southwales.ac.uk
Phone:03455767778
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