Swansea University

What you'll study

This degree combines anatomy and physiology, clinical sciences and practice-based learning to prepare you for work in anaesthesia, perioperative care and recovery. Core topics include:

• Anatomy and physiology relevant to perioperative and critical care.
• Clinical pharmacology and medicines management with emphasis on anaesthetic agents and analgesia.
• Perioperative practice covering pre‑operative assessment, intra‑operative techniques and post‑operative recovery.
• Anaesthetic practice and airway management, including monitoring and basic life support.
• Infection prevention and clinical governance, safe practice and risk management in the theatre environment.
• Evidence‑based practice and research methods to support clinical decision making and quality improvement.
• Professionalism, ethics and communication emphasising multidisciplinary team working and patient safety.

The programme is structured around campus‑based teaching and progressive clinical placements. Students undertake practical skills sessions in simulation suites and the Clinical Skills Centre, and complete assessed placements across operating theatres, anaesthetic units and recovery areas in NHS hospitals. Placements are an integral component and increase in responsibility as you progress through the years.

Entry requirements

Applicants are usually expected to hold a combination of A‑levels, a relevant BTEC diploma, an Access to Higher Education qualification in a health subject, or equivalent qualifications. Backgrounds that include biology, health and social care, or science are advantageous. GCSEs including English and maths at a pass level (or recognised equivalents) are typically required. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency at a level appropriate for professional practice.

All successful applicants must meet professional and statutory requirements before clinical placements, which commonly include an enhanced criminal record check (DBS), occupational health clearance, immunisations and evidence of fitness to practise. Selection may involve an interview and practical assessment to determine suitability for clinical training.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to register as operating department practitioners with the relevant professional regulator and to practise across anaesthesia, perioperative and recovery practice. Typical first roles are as theatre practitioners in NHS or private hospitals, working in anaesthetic rooms, operating theatres and post‑anaesthetic care units.

With experience, ODPs progress to specialist clinical roles (for example in paediatrics, trauma or cardiac theatre teams), advanced practice (including non‑medical prescribing at appropriate levels where eligible), education, clinical management, research or roles in pre‑operative assessment and critical care. The practical, transferable skills developed on the programme also support career moves into allied health leadership, teaching and further postgraduate study.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University offers a practice‑focused operating department practice degree with strong links to local NHS health boards, providing diverse placement opportunities across hospital settings. Teaching is supported by modern simulation facilities and a Clinical Skills Centre where students rehearse complex scenarios in a controlled environment.

Small‑group teaching, experienced clinical tutors and a structured placement support team help students develop competence and confidence for frontline practice. The university’s health and social care community provides multidisciplinary learning, research activity in clinical practice and opportunities to engage with service improvement projects in partnership with regional hospitals.