Operating Department Practice taster days

Operating Department Practice student in a mock operating theatre

Fascinated by the surgical environment? Learn more about the role of the Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) at one of our taster days.

You'll get:

  • the chance to speak to a course lecturers and students
  • an opportunity to explore the role of the ODP
  • information about the course and placements
  • useful tips on applying, including interview preparation.

Find out more about our BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice.

Book your taster day

We're running on-campus taster days on the following dates. There are separate events for Cambridge and Chelmsford, to give you the chance to find out more about the campus you're interested in studying at.

  • Chelmsford: Wednesday 6 December 2023, 10am-3pm
  • Cambridge: Thursday 7 December 2023, 10am-3pm

The above events run from 10am-2.30pm.

Or, book a virtual taster day:

  • Wednesday 24 January 2024 10am-1pm
Book your place

Working as an ODP

Working as an operating department practitioner is diverse and includes a wide range of skills across the entire perioperative patient journey.

As a registered ODP you’ll work in one or more of three main areas in the theatre environment, as well as in critical care environments such as intensive care and A&E.


As a student here at ARU, you’ll gain competence in all areas of theatres through focused practice modules. The three main areas are: anaesthetics, surgery and Post-Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU). You’ll also be supervised throughout your course by qualified mentors.