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Postgraduate course

Operating Department Practice (Pre-registration) MSc

Prepare for an exciting career in Operating Department Practice (ODP) where every heartbeat, every breath, and every second count.

Students wearing medical scrubs perform surgery on a dummy in a mock operating theatre

On this dynamic and transformative course, you will nurture your passion for patient care within the high-pressure environment of the operating theatre. Our Operating Department Practice MSc is an innovative postgraduate route into the field of perioperative practice, leading to professional registration with the Health and Care Professions Council. This is an ideal if you are looking to make the first steps into an exciting career at the frontline of modern healthcare.

York campus

  • Duration – 2 years full time
  • Start date – September 2025, September 2026
  • School – School of Science, Technology and Health

Minimum entry requirements

2:1 degree or above in a related subject

Interview You will need to attend an interview

Tuition fees

    UK 2025-26 £9,535 per year full time

    International 2025-26 £18,400 per year full time

Course overview

This course is not just about acquiring expertise; it's about embracing a calling to be the unsung heroes behind the scenes. As a an Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) you will strive to be the steady hands that navigate the complexities of surgical procedures, and the compassionate soul that ensures every patient journey is one of safety, comfort, and dignity.

The role is unique and unlike no other Allied Health Professional. With specific training in the areas of anaesthetics, surgery and recovery, the ODP provides highly skilled assistance to medical staff and is a central role in the multidisciplinary perioperative team. There is an identified need for increasing numbers of ODPs in both private and public healthcare provision and on an international level.

You will not only gain a profound understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, but also cultivate essential teamwork, communication, and decision-making skills essential for success in the operating theatre. 

Subject to approval, the course will be externally accredited by the College of Operating Department Practitioners and approved by the Health and Care Profession Council (HCPC). The course leads to eligibility to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and therefore enables you to use the protected title of Operating Department Practitioner.

There is a strong emphasis on employability, and we encourage you to build personal resilience and leadership skills to facilitate professional development in work-based environments. In all levels of study, you will interact with Operating Department Practitioners and other professionals from a range of careers.

We have a strong commitment to social justice, sustainability, and enhancing cultural intelligence by encouraging you to be aware of, and address, social and economic concerns inequalities in healthcare.

Course structure

How you will study

You must study this postgraduate course full time.

The course will take 2 years to complete.

In your first year you will study 4 compulsory modules, as well a practice placements. The course is 50% practice placement and 50% university-based.

You can find out which modules are available in each term in the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 15

Compulsory module

This module will provide you with a detailed understanding of pathological processes in the context of acute and chronically ill patients in the perioperative setting. You will build on your existing knowledge of human anatomy and learn to assess, plan, and intervene effectively in perioperative care. Through exploring intricate pathophysiological concepts, you will develop the critical thinking skills necessary for anticipating and managing complications in real-time. Your learning on this module will combine theory, case study discussion and simulation, enabling you to apply your knowledge in relation to diagnostic and therapeutic surgical intervention strategies. 

Credits: 15

Compulsory module

This module introduces the role of research in healthcare, along with it’s underpinning philosophical and ethical concepts. On this module you will explore areas of innovation and service improvement to make links to perioperative practice. You will also learn about the principles of investigative research, in preparation for conducting an original primary research study in your second year. We will encourage you to critically evaluate research findings, building on practice placement and perioperative theory. This will also involve developing a research proposal (qualitative or quantitative) which will be submitted for ethical approval. 

Credits: 30

Compulsory module

On this module you will learn about the design and function of Operating Department Practice, and its place in contemporary healthcare provision in the UK. With an emphasis on the role of the circulating Operating Department Practitioner, this module explores the fundamental principles and practices of perioperative practice. These include:

  • Patient safety
  • Human factors
  • Risk management
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration

You will develop practical skills that are central to surgical care, using a range of theoretical and simulation techniques that will enhance your practical skills development.

Credits: 30

Compulsory module

This module is an introduction the role of the anaesthetics and recovery Operating Department Practitioner. It includes a comprehensive exploration of the principles of anaesthesia in the perioperative setting, emphasising its role in patient safety, optimal surgical conditions, and effective postoperative outcomes. Your learning will be centred on safe, holistic practice, and you will develop your understanding of care and communication in healthcare. The module will equip you with knowledge and skills essential for proficient and patient-centred care. 

Pass/fail

Compulsory module

This module will enable you to apply the theoretical knowledge of perioperative practice and the skills you have learned in the simulated environment in real clinical placements. You will be assigned to a theatre department for the whole of your degree, and will work around all the specialities that hospital provides perioperative care for. This can include:

  • General surgery
  • Orthopaedics
  • Urology
  • Gynaecology

There may also be opportunities to experience specialisms such as cardiothoracic and neurosurgery. You will work with patients and service users from all backgrounds and ages, including individuals with learning disabilities and mental health conditions. This will be build your confidence and experience in meeting the needs of a wide range of people.

In your second year you will study 4 compulsory modules, and you will continue with your practice placements.

You can find out which modules are available in each term in the Course Specifications.

Modules

Credits: 15

Compulsory module

On this module you will learn about pharmacological principles and methods in the context of perioperative care provision. There is an emphasis on the mechanisms of action, interactions and adverse effects. You will explore pharmacology and medicines management from the initial stages of pre-assessment and the concepts of polypharmacy and multimorbidity, to the latter stages of postanaesthetic care. We will also consider the complex patient needs of the perioperative patient. 

Credits: 15

Compulsory module

This module will provide you with advanced knowledge and practical insights into contemporary leadership theories and innovative practices specific to perioperative care. By exploring contemporary leadership models, you will gain a deep understanding of conflict resolution and transformative leadership styles. This will prepare you to excel as a leader within multidisciplinary healthcare teams. The module also focuses on fostering innovation in perioperative practice, giving you the skills to identify innovative solutions, implement evidence-based practices, and drive change.

Credits: 30

Compulsory module

This module is culmination of your learning on the course, as you construct an original piece of research for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. This will involve data collection, analysis, and interpretation in the context of perioperative care, under the guidance of your supervisor. Through this you will deepen your understanding of research in the NHS and its importance in shaping policy, improving patient outcomes, and enhancing the overall quality of healthcare delivery. By leading on your own individual research project, you will develop essential skills in project management, teamwork, and effective communication.

Credits: 30

Compulsory module

This module will hone your skills in aseptic technique, instrument handling and surgical site preparation. You will also learn about the role of the Surgical First Assistant, including:

  • Retraction
  • Suturing
  • Surgical draping
  • Manipulation of surgical equipment

We will use real case studies to evaluate ethical considerations in the operating theatre, communication strategies and situational awareness. Through the integration of theoretical concepts with practical skills, you will grow as a confident, detail-orientated, and problem-solving professional, capable of ensuring patient safety and supporting the surgical team with the highest standards of perioperative care.

Pass/fail

Compulsory module

In your second year you will continue working with a wide range of specialisms and service users in your practice placements. At this level you will also advance your skills in leadership, management and innovation. There will be opportunities to gain more experience working with complex cases, and really refine your professional skills. 

Teaching and assessment

Teaching and learning

With 50% of the course being practice placement and 50% university-based, your learning is balanced between theory and practice. You will learn through a blend of theoretical study, hands-on experiences, and professional placements, preparing you for professional registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Your lectures will provide theoretical context around perioperative concepts including anaesthesia, surgical interventions, and complex patient care. Seminars will encourage deeper learning through interactive discussions, debate, critical analysis, and collaborative problem-solving. Guest speakers from all areas of perioperative practice and research will enhance your understanding of the profession.

Hands-on immersive simulations are an exciting and integral part of the course. You will engage in realistic perioperative scenarios, applying theoretical knowledge in safe, controlled environments that will encourage debate to foster deeper learning. We are in the process of developing a purpose-built operating theatre on our main campus, to support your learning.

Interprofessional collaboration is emphasised throughout the course, and you will work alongside nursing and allied health students in simulation and clinical placements to highlight the importance of multidisciplinary working. Shared learning experiences will prepare you for complex multidisciplinary team working on clinical placements and equip you with the communication and team-working skills to thrive in the modern healthcare setting.

Graduate employability is always a focus, with professional skills development introduced in year one, and continued in year two with an employability week that will feature:

  • Industry speakers
  • Guest lectures from advanced practice
  • CPD portfolio building
  • CV creation seminars
  • Interview techniques

Assessment

You will be assessed through:

  • Written assignments
  • Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs)
  • Exams
  • Research
  • A practice assessment document (PAD), demonstrating your knowledge development and clinical placement skills

Entry requirements

Qualifications

Minimum entry requirements

    2:1 degree or above in a related subject

    Interview You will need to attend an interview

You would normally require a degree in a related subject of science, social sciences and/or healthcare and experience of undergraduate level research, including undertaking a project or dissertation. If you have either a 2:2 in a related subject, or an honours degree in a subject not covered above, your application may still be considered if you are able to evidence significant academic or experience in health, social care and/or education.

Additional requirements

Admission to the course is dependent upon the following selection processes and criteria:

  • Personal statement
  • Satisfactory DBS check
  • Medical report - you must be in good health and up to date with your routine immunisations
  • Declaration of any convictions, cautions or allegations
  • Understanding of the Operating Department Practitioner role in healthcare
  • You will be trained in manual handling techniques before being allowed into practice at the beginning of the course

 

Interview

You will need to attend an interview for this course.

International students

If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.

Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.

If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 7.0 (with no skill below 6.5) or equivalent.

International entry requirements

APEL

If you can't meet these minimum requirements it may be possible to take into account evidence of Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) as an alternative method of meeting the programme’s entry requirements. In such a case, appropriate references and records of employment might be presented to support the applicant’s case for admission.

Fees and funding

UK 2025 entry

The tuition fee for 2025 entry to this postgraduate course is £9,535 per year for full time study.

This cost applies to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students.

Funding your studies

If you live in England, you can use the same student loans system as undergraduate students to pay for this course. When applying for funding, you will need to apply as an undergraduate student.

If you live in Wales or Scotland you will need to apply for a Postgraduate Master's Loan.

You can find out more about this loan and how to apply by following the link below to our funding opportunities page.

Postgraduate funding opportunities

NHS Learning Support Fund

If you apply for this course, you might be eligible for additional financial support from the NHS. Visit their website to find out more about eligibility criteria and what you can receive.

Learning Support Fund

Tuition fees

    UK 2025-26 £9,535 per year full time

    International 2025-26 £18,400 per year full time

International 2025 entry

The tuition fee for 2025 entry to this postgraduate course is £18,400 per year for full time study.

This price applies to all students living outside the UK.

Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a student visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.

Find out more about funding your postgraduate studies.

International Fees and Funding

Additional costs and financial support

Alumni Scholarships

If you are alumni of York St John University we have scholarships available to help you continue your studies.

Scholarships for alumni

Course-related costs

While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.

Accommodation and living costs

View our accommodation pages for detailed information on accommodation and living costs.

Career outcomes

Where could Operating Department Practice take you?

You could seek an anaesthetics or scrub role immediately after graduating from this degree. You could from there progress to roles such as:

  • Advanced scrub practitioner
  • Surgical care practitioner
  • Leadership and management
  • Research
  • Education
  • Physicians associate
  • Physicians associate in anaesthesia

Stand out from the crowd with postgraduate study.

Far fewer people have postgraduate degrees than undergraduate qualifications. This gives you something extra to set yourself apart in a competitive graduate job market.

Our careers service, LaunchPad, provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:

  • Employer events
  • LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
  • Workshops on application writing and interview skills
  • Work experience and volunteering opportunities
  • Personalised career advice

This support does not end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain the experience and confidence you need to succeed.

Apply for this course

For postgraduate degrees you must apply directly to York St John University using the links below. This will take you to the application form you will need to fill out for this specific course.

To complete the online application form you will need to create login details.

Please contact 2 referees before submitting your application. An automated request for a reference will be emailed to them as soon as you submit. Your application will not be reviewed until both references are in place.

The course will be closed to applications once all places have been fulfilled so we strongly advise that you submit your application when you are ready in order to avoid disappointment

Fees and key information

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