Masters Degrees (Reproduction)

This MPhil pathway is designed to give students a basic understanding of major themes and debates the sociology of reproduction and new reproductive technologies. Two core modules introduce key concepts and approaches to the sociology of reproduction, and core methodologies in this field. Other substantive modules can be chosen in consultation with the student's supervisor or the course director.

Topics to be covered include: core theories of gender, reproduction and kinship; the reproductive division of labour; social reproduction and the meaning of the 'mode of reproduction'; the sociology of new reproductive technologies; reproduction and globalisation; reproductive rights; media representation of reproduction and visual cultures of reproduction.

Background readings will be drawn from feminist science studies, the history of science and medicine, and the anthropology of reproduction as well as the sociology of reproduction.

See the website http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/hssompsrp

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the programme students should have:

- an advanced understanding of current sociological research in selected topics;
- the skills necessary to conduct independent social research and experience in their use;
- an ability to apply and develop modern social theory with respect to empirical topics;
- a deeper understanding of their chosen specialist area, including command of the literature and current research;
- the ability to situate their own research within current developments in the field.

Format

The course offers teaching on Social Theory, Substantive modules and Research Methods. Students work towards a written dissertation supported by supervisions and a dissertation workshop.

Students receive written feedback on each essay and the dissertation. Feedback is also given during the dissertation workshop on the direction and progress of the dissertation research.

Assessment

Students write a dissertation of not less than 15,000 and not more than 20,000 words on a subject approved by the Degree Committee.

Students write one methods essay of not less than 2,500 and not more than 3,000 words (or prescribed course work) and two substantive essays of not less than 4,000 and not more than 5,000 words.

Continuing

Students are encouraged to proceed to the Faculty's PhD programme, provided they reach a high level of achievement in all parts of the course. MPhil students who would like to continue to the PhD would normally need to have a final mark of at least 70% overall and 70% for the dissertation.

How to apply: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/applying

Funding Opportunities

The Department of Sociology holds ESRC funding awards. Sociology is a recognised Doctoral Training Centre pathway toward a PhD. Therefore candidates for the MPhil in Sociology (Sociology of Reproduction) can apply for 1+3 ESRC funding.

General Funding Opportunities http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/funding

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The University of Liverpool Bovine Reproduction PGDip is a two-year part-time postgraduate course.

Students study a selection of modules and complete a 10,000 dissertation in order to graduate with a Postgraduate Diploma.

This two year part-time master's level programme is known as the Diploma in Bovine Reproduction continuing the tradition started when the programme commenced in the 1980’s and reflects the academic comparability to Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Diploma qualifications. The qualification is recognised by both the RCVS and European College of Animal Reproduction (ECAR). It provides postgraduate education in an important aspect of the bovine health. The overall aims of the programme are to enable veterinary surgeons in regular contact with cattle to:

achieve a widely-based and deep understanding of bovine reproduction, which will enable them to provide sound scientific advice to the cattle industry;

develop appropriate skills; and

maintain a critical approach to their own work.

The programme is modular in structure, with eight residential weeks spaced over two years. Learning methods include lectures, demonstrations, videos, practical work, discussions, field visits and directed reading. Participants will be expected to satisfy essay and work based continual assessments for each module during the course; to pass written, practical and oral examinations of the final module at the end of the programme; and to present a dissertation, not exceeding 10,000 words, before the award of the Diploma.

Guidance is given by staff of the University of Liverpool and by invited contributors, each a recognised authority in a specialised field. Teaching takes place mainly at Leahurst, the University of Liverpool’s rural campus.

Although mainly restricted to the study of reproduction in cattle, the programme includes reference to other species to establish biological principles or to illustrate concepts for which information is not available in cattle and also covers key areas impinging on fertility such as nutrition and infectious disease.

Module Code Module Title Credits

Module DBRM611 Normal Non-Pregnant Female 15

Module DBRM612 Nutrition and Fertility 15

Module DBRM613 Fertility in Post-Partum Period 15

Module DBRM614 The Male 15

Module DBRM615 Genetics 15

Module DBRM616 Early Pregnancy 15

Module DBRM617 Late Pregnancy and Parturition 5

Module DBRM618 Synopsis and the Future 15

Module DBRM621 Dissertation 60

Key Facts

RAE 2008

In the latest Research Assessment Exercise, 45% of the School’s research activity was deemed world-leading or internationally excellent and a further 45% internationally recognised.

Facilities

The School has two bases: the University’s main campus in Liverpool and the Leahurst campus in Wirral. Leahurst has highly equipped research laboratories, which are shared with the research institutes of the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, as well as being home to the Philip Leverhulme Equine Hospital, the Farm Animal Practice and the Small Animal Teaching Hospital.

Our clinics provide numerous cases for clinical investigation, as do our co-operating veterinary surgeons in private practice. The School also has excellent relationships with farming enterprises and Chester Zoo.

Individual topics within the DBR are also offered as CPD for those who do not wish to attend the whole programme.

Why School of Veterinary Science?

Excellent reputation

The DBR has been successfully completed by over 100 vets whilst working in full time clinical practice. It has an academic and support structure proven to achieve a high completion rate whilst maintaining academic rigour validated by RCVS and ECAR external observers.

Many leading cattle clinicians have obtained the qualification and feedback from past students is excellent.

Consistently strong League Table and National Student Survey performance

Veterinary Science at Liverpool is consistently highly rated in The Times Good University Guide (rated 2nd in the UK in 2011), the Complete University Guide (rated 1st in the UK 2011), and in the National Student Survey (rated first or second for several years).

Collaboration across academic disciplines

Our staff work closely with colleagues from medicine, life sciences, and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, not only on animal disease and welfare, but on human health too – taking a ‘one health’ approach from long before the phrase was invented. We also collaborate with colleagues from social sciences to exploit fully the comparative nature of veterinary science. This greatly extends the postgraduate study and research opportunities at Liverpool.

Wide coverage across the postgraduate programmes

The School of Veterinary Science at the University of Liverpool provides excellent postgraduate scientific and clinical training, from population to whole animal studies to the molecular level.

Recognised by the European College of Animal Reproduction

Successful reproduction is the cornerstone of the dairy industry. The DBR has been rin for nearly 30 years and has been completed by some of the leading farm animal vets practicing in the U.K. They have also contributed back into the course to maintain its relevance to modern Cattle Practice.

The DBR is recognised as a Diploma level qualification by RCVS and a recognised training course by the European College of Animal Reproduction.

Career prospects

Course participants are in employment as veterinary surgeons and most become employed in specialist private practice. Some have moved to academia internationally.

Many practices are using the fact they have DBR holders and support such study when advertising for new staff and to gain farmer clients. Candidates use the qualification as a springboard to specialisation.

Funding

The following postgraduate funding may be available to study the Bovine Reproduction PGDip at The University of Liverpool.

UK postgraduate loans:

• Scottish Postgraduate Loans – Offering up to £10,000 for eligible UK or EU students ordinarily resident in Scotland.
• Northern Irish Postgraduate Loans – Offering up to £5,500 for eligible UK or EU students ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland.

(English and Welsh postgraduate loans are not currently available for Postgraduate Diploma courses.)

Funding from FindAMasters:

• FindAMasters Scholarships – Offering up to £5,000 to new UK, EU and international postgraduates. 

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This vocational training programme is for recent biology, biomedical, biochemistry and medical graduates who want to develop a career in the field of clinical embryology and assisted reproductive technology (ART) and/or the associated reproductive sciences. It provides a detailed knowledge of the underpinning theory and practices and is a laboratory-based science degree not a clinically-based infertility treatment course.

The programme emphasises all aspects of practical training for clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technology. You’ll receive hands-on training from specialist practitioners in andrology, gamete handling, IVF, ICSI, embryo culture, gamete and embryo freezing, vitrification and biopsy and will interact with established, clinical embryologists and reproductive medicine specialists. You’ll also be trained in research methods.

You will be part of a world-renowned School, being taught by and working with internationally recognised scholars.

More information

The programme has been developed by the Division of Reproduction and Early Development within the Leeds Institute of Genetics, Health and Therapeutics, in association with the clinicians and embryologists working at the Leeds Centre of Reproductive Medicine in the Leeds NHS Trust. The programme leaders have over 20 years of experience of training clinical embryologists, reproductive medicine practitioners and reproductive scientists.

You can also study this subject at Postgraduate Diploma level. 

Through a series of compulsory modules you’ll learn about:

• the cell and molecular biology of human reproduction, fertility, andrology and embryology
• the management and efficient running of an ART laboratory
• the practices, genetic and epigenetic concepts of micromanipulation and techniques, such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)
• advances in cryobiology and its application to gamete and embryo freezing and fertility preservation.

The programme also gives you valuable insights into the theory underpinning clinical treatments and the ethical and legal controversies surrounding assisted reproduction in humans.

Course structure

Compulsory modules

• Research in Reproduction, Embryology & Assisted Reproduction Technology 60 credits
• Fundamentals of Clinical Embryology 45 credits
• IVF and Embryo Culture 35 credits
• Micromanipulation 15 credits
• Cryobiology and Cryopreservation 15 credits
• Ethics and Law for Embryologists 10 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Clinical Embryology and Assisted Reproduction Technology MSc in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

The programme is delivered using a blended learning approach, which combines lectures, seminars, tutorials, interactive group discussions, presentations and problem-based-learning sessions or case studies, with self-directed learning.

Theoretical training is complemented by the original research conducted by the student and by an extensive series of laboratory-based ART practical and skills training sessions.

The course content is enhanced by extensive online resources and the provision of printed versions of all module workbooks, as appropriate.

Assessment

Course assessments will include essays, presentations, projects, practical log books, a research dissertation and examinations.

Career opportunities

The Clinical Embryology and Associated Reproductive Technology MSc equips graduates to pursue a career in human assisted reproduction (eg clinical embryology, infertility treatment) and/or research in the reproductive sciences.

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

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The MRes in Reproduction and Pregnancy (formerly the MRes in Maternal and Fetal Health) is a 12-month master's course providing first class training in reproductive and pregnancy research.

It is a unique course designed to train those who wish to pursue a research career in reproductive medicine or pregnancy or to work in associated areas in health or science. Students do not need any prior research experience before undertaking this course.

You will undertake two interrelated research projects on a specific topic in reproduction and pregnancy, alongside taught units providing up to date knowledge of reproduction and pregnancy and training in research skills.

The MRes in Reproduction and Pregnancy will provide you with:
-The opportunity to conduct medical research at the clinical scientific interface
-Experience of running your own research project in a specific area of reproductive or pregnancy research
-Hands-on experience of cutting-edge technologies applicable to reproduction and pregnancy, and transferable to other areas of medical research
-An understanding of the latest state of knowledge in reproductive medicine and pregnancy
-Training and experience in scientific writing and developing a research proposal
-Grounding in a wide range of reproductive medicine and pregnancy related issues by attending seminars in the Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre
-An opportunity to participate in high quality research at an early career stage and to contribute to public domain research output

On successful completion of this course you will gain:
-A master's degree. The majority of our students have achieved a Distinction (58%) or Merit (35%) degree;
-In depth knowledge of clinically relevant reproduction and pregnancy research from bench to bedside;
-Advanced research skills and experience of running your own research project;
-Understanding of the ethical issues and social implications of research in reproduction and pregnancy;
-A strong CV for future research or medical career;
-Public domain output. The majority of students gain public domain output during or after their MRes, including: conference presentations (national and international conferences); published abstracts; published papers (first or co-authored papers); awards e.g. RCOG oral presentation and essay prizes, travel grants.

Special features

The MRes is based in the Manchester Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre (MFHRC), the largest pregnancy research group in Europe and the Tommy's Stillbirth Research Centre. We have strong links with the Reproductive Medicine Department at St Mary's Hospital, Manchester.

We aim to find solutions to reproduction and pregnancy problems through a holistic approach to understanding, managing and treating diseases affecting mothers and babies, and through training the next generation of researchers in an interdisciplinary research environment. We conduct translational medicine research 'from bench to bedside', which is related to all aspects of pregnancy, from embryo implantation, through to pregnancy pathologies and developmental programming in the offspring.

The MFHRC has internationally renowned researchers in IVF/early pregnancy, placental biology, pregnancy complications and stillbirth. Our clinical academic researchers have developed world leading research antenatal clinics for high risk pregnancies. Integration of the research clinics and the research laboratories provides rich opportunity for translation from clinic to laboratory and application of research findings to the clinic.

Students will be based in the MFHRC and will be an active part of the research centre. We place a major emphasis on training the next generation of researchers and have approximately 40 trainee researchers (both basic science and clinical researchers) undertaking research as part of their degrees or training (from undergraduate, through the PhD and postdoctoral research).

Career opportunities

Our MRes graduates have continued their scientific or medical careers in the following areas.
-PhD research - 70% of home science graduates and 40% of our international graduates go on to conduct further research.
-Clinical training through the O&G and Academic pathways (Academic Foundation and Academic Clinical Fellows (ACF)).
-Other clinical/science professions , e.g. MBChB, midwifery, journal publishing, biotechnology, NHS STP and HIV Clinical Mentor.

Many of our students have stayed in the Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre to undertake further research training.

We keep in contact with our MRes alumni and invite all past students to our annual welcome event for the new intake each October.

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This specialist pathway has been designed for those interested in reproductive endocrinology, fertility, assisted reproductive technology, prenatal development, birth defects, embryogenesis, molecular biology and genetics.

Highlights

-Shared campus with one of the largest teaching hospitals in the UK.
-Expertise in clinical, epidemiological and laboratory research within the University and St George’s Hospital

Reproduction and Development Module

The 30 credit Reproduction and Development module will begin with the exploration of the science of reproduction covering a range of aspects of women’s health including normal sexual differentiation, endocrine disorders, hormonal control of fertility, pregnancy and contraception amongst others.

The module will also explore development and disease covering embryonic development with an emphasis on molecular mechanisms and human congenital disorders. It will also include an introduction to experimental techniques, terminology, model organisms and the use of transgenic mouse technology.

This pathway will take advantage of active reproduction and development research taking place at St George’s, laboratory skills sessions and clinical case-based lectures giving you an understanding of the cellular processes involved in reproduction and development can help design strategies to aid fertility and treat/manage defects in development. The module will also provide you with insight into how new sequencing technologies and ‘omics’ methodologies are helping to decipher the cellular mechanisms involved in reproduction and development.

Careers

The course is highly effective for accelerating your development within your general healthcare career. As a direct result of the depth and quality of the academic research that you’ll undertake on your nin8e month project, you will also be in primary position when it comes to successfully applying for PhDs.

Application

Apply at https://sgul.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-degrees-postgraduate/biomedical-science-mres-reproduction-and-development/apply

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This vocational training programme is for recent biology, biomedical, biochemistry and medical graduates who want to develop a career in the field of clinical embryology and assisted reproductive technology (ART) and/or the associated reproductive sciences. It provides a detailed knowledge of the underpinning theory and practices and is a laboratory-based science degree not a clinically-based infertility treatment course.

The programme emphasises all aspects of practical training for clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technology. You’ll receive hands-on training from specialist practitioners in andrology, gamete handling, IVF, ICSI, embryo culture, gamete and embryo freezing, vitrification and biopsy and will interact with established, clinical embryologists and reproductive medicine specialists.

You will be part of a world-renowned School, being taught by and working with Internationally recognised scholars.

More information

The programme has been developed by the Division of Reproduction and Early Development within the Leeds Institute of Genetics, Health and Therapeutics, in association with the clinicians and embryologists working at the Leeds Centre of Reproductive Medicine in the Leeds NHS Trust. The programme leaders have over 20 years of experience of training clinical embryologists, reproductive medicine practitioners and reproductive scientists.

You can also study this subject at Master of Science level.

Course content

Through a series of compulsory modules you’ll learn about:

• the cell and molecular biology of human reproduction, fertility, andrology and embryology
• the management and efficient running of an ART laboratory
• the practices, genetic and epigenetic concepts of micromanipulation and techniques, such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)
• advances in cryobiology and its application to gamete and embryo freezing and fertility preservation.

The programme also gives you valuable insights into the theory underpinning clinical treatments and the ethical and legal controversies surrounding assisted reproduction in humans.

Course structure

Compulsory modules

• Fundamentals of Clinical Embryology 45 credits
• IVF and Embryo Culture 35 credits
• Micromanipulation 15 credits
• Cryobiology and Cryopreservation 15 credits
• Ethics and Law for Embryologists 10 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Clinical Embryology and Assisted Reproduction Technology PGDip in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

The programme is delivered using a blended learning approach, which combines lectures, seminars, tutorials, interactive group discussions, presentations and problem-based-learning sessions or case studies, with self-directed learning.

Theoretical training is complemented by a small number of laboratory-based practical sessions.

The course content is enhanced by extensive online resources and the provision of printed versions of all module workbooks.

Assessment

Course assessments will include essays, presentations, projects, practical log books, a research dissertation and examinations.

Career opportunities

The Clinical Embryology and Associated Reproductive Technology PGDip will educate graduates who want to pursue a career in human assisted reproduction (eg clinical embryology, infertility treatment) and/or research in the reproductive sciences.

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

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Overview

This a one year (academic) full time course which, upon completion of a course of study leads to an M.Med.Sci Degree in Assisted Reproduction Technology. This course provides an avenue for both scientists and clinicians to enter the field of reproductive biology; and for those already familiar with this area, an opportunity to gain greater appreciation of the biological processes of mammalian reproduction that are relevant to the manipulation of fertility and the treatment of reproductive disease.

The course was established in 1993, making it the longest running taught masters in the UK providing full-time training in human ART, and aims to furnish graduates with the theoretical and practical training within this highly specialised discipline. Designed to broaden knowledge of the underlying scientific principles and to enhance appreciation of the clinical management of infertility, it aims to encourage independent thought and a research oriented approach to the practice of assisted conception.

A major feature and strength of this course is that the primary components, in terms of reproductive physiology, research methods, clinical embryology, and clinical medicine are all provided by experts who are highly active within their own areas of expertise, giving the information provided to the students an immediacy and relevance that it would be impossible to achieve using a more static and established teaching base.

The course is studied over a period of one year, full time, and has three basic components:
1) Theoretical and Practical Training modules (95 Credits)
2) Development of Research and Presentation skills and Observation (25 Credits)
3) Research project & dissertation (60 Credits)

Delivery method

The taught component of the course is delivered in the Autumn and Spring semesters through a combination of lectures, practicals, seminars, tutorials and other associated activities, such as journal club and guest speakers.

Approximately one third of the total course duration is dedicated to the construction, preparation and investigation of a laboratory-based research project of up to 15,000 words. This is written up in thesis presentation form.

IMPORTANT NOTE

ALL applicants, especially those from a predominantly clinical background, please note:

• This is a laboratory-based, science degree course and not a clinically based infertility treatment course.
• There is no direct contact with patients or tuition in gynaecological/surgical procedures.
• That although training is given in all laboratory aspects of assisted conception (including semen evaluation, IVF, IVM, ICSI and cryopreservation) in the time available, this training can only represent an introduction to these techniques and those graduates wishing to become clinical embryologists will need further training to become competent in those highly specialised techniques.

Course aims

• To encourage independent thought and a research oriented approach to the practice of assisted conception
• To provide theoretical and practical training in Assisted Reproduction Technology
• To broaden the students knowledge of the underlying scientific basis of ART and clinical management of infertility
• To equip graduates with the ability to pursue a career in assisted conception (e.g. clinical embryology, infertility treatment) and/or research in reproductive biology

Course objectives

• To provide successful candidates with a career path within one of the many disciplines that encompass modern assisted reproduction technology and to this end, students are taught by and given the opportunity to interact with, both full-time reproductive biologists and the consultants, clinical embryologists, andrologists and counsellors.

Requirements

Candidates must normally be graduates of an approved university, or other institution of higher education in medicine, nursing or the biological sciences. Normally the minimum requirement for entry is a 2(ii) degree or equivalent, although candidates with a third class degree may be considered at the Course Directors discretion in special circumstances. If you are not sure if you qualify, please do not hesitate to contact the Course Administrator

Candidates will be required to follow a prescribed course of study for one academic year (two 15-week semesters and summer period)

All candidates will be required to undertake a theoretical and practical training programme. Candidates will also be required to submit a dissertation of not more that 15,000 words on a topic relating to an aspect of Assisted Reproduction agreed by the Director of the Course.

English Language Requirements

International students whose first language is not English must achieve an appropriate level in an approved test in English before they can register.

The requirements for this course are above the University minimum standards and are as follows:

• IELTS minimum score of 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in any element)
or
• TOEFL iBT 87 (minimum 19 in listening, 20 in speaking and 21 in reading and writing)

Examinations should be taken within two years of registering to study at Nottingham. Completion of a previous degree studied in the English language does not exempt applicants from requiring one of the above English qualifications, unless the degree was taken in a country where the first language is English.

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This innovative distance-learning programme provides a comprehensive theoretical foundation in the areas of human reproduction and development. The programme is designed to appeal to a wide range of postgraduate students, including scientists, nurses and clinicians. Residential workshops will be held in Bristol, comprising lectures and seminars as well as case-based group work, practical sessions and assessments. Each distance-learning unit comprises online tutorials and lectures, with assessment by essays and online questions.

Programme structure

Core units
-Reproductive Physiology and Endocrinology
-Gametogenesis to Implantation
-Human Development and Pregnancy
-Statistics and Research Methods
-Infertility - Diagnosis and Management
-Assisted Reproductive Technologies
-Research Project

Careers

Students on the programme come from a variety of countries and background; all have an interest in reproduction, infertility and development or wish to pursue careers in these areas. The vast majority of our clinician students on the Master's degree follow the programme for training purposes - for progression and promotion in their chosen discipline, or as a foundation qualification allowing them to specialise in IVF and infertility or obstetrics and gynaecology.

Our clinical graduates use their knowledge and skills to gain research skills to aid publication, develop their medical practices and enhance their expertise in reproductive medicine. Our science graduates have used this Master's degree as a springboard into non-clinical or clinical research, including PhD studentships, or for clinical/diagnostic positions, such as clinical embryology.

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This module is for those with an interest in fertility who wish to improve their understanding of the principles and practices of assisted reproduction technology. Students will gain an understanding of the complex issues surrounding modern infertility treatments and current management strategies for infertile couples.

Suitable for specialist nurse practitioners, hospital doctors, clinicians, GPs and related scientist/health professionals, teaching will be through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies and small group work. The module is conducted at the Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Coventry & Warwickshire, Coventry

Topics covered include

-Definition & diagnosis of infertility.
-Hormonal control of the menstrual cycle.
-Andrology.
-Embryology & blastocyst culture.
-Initiating pregnancy.
-Micromanipulation.
-Fertility preservation.
-PCOS & OHSS.
-Male factor infertility.
-Patient support including management of recurrent miscarriage.
-Donated sperm & eggs.
-Follow up of pregnancies & children born.
-Regulation & the law.
-Ethics.
-Treatment pathways.
-Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).
-Gamete & tissue cryopreservation.
-Role of the infertility nurse.

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This course is for qualified midwives only. This course is designed to equip you with an understanding of international, political, social and ethical issues of reproduction, and a scientific basis for examining maternity policy and practice. You will gain knowledge and understanding of the social and political context of reproduction and maternal health policy, evidence-based practice and research methods.

Key benefits:

- Central location allows access to world leading clinical and academic resources.
- Access to extracurricular seminars and lectures given by leaders in healthcare from around the world.
- A multi-faculty environment drawing on clinical and academic expertise from a number of world leading schools and hospitals providing an unparalleled inter-professional learning experience.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/advanced-practice-midwifery-msc-pg-dip-pg-cert.aspx

Course detail

- Description

Students undertake core modules in the leadership and delivery of maternity services, evidence-based practice and healthcare research. In addition students select options from a range of areas including:

- Clinical specialities
- Professional development and organisational change.

Other options from our BSc programme and modules from the MSc in Medical Ultrasound may also be available. Students who have already studied clinically focused modules at undergraduate or graduate level at King’s may be able incorporate this study into the programme, provided that the credits have not already contributed to an award. Modules studied elsewhere may be incorporated through accreditation of prior certificated learning (subject to a successful accreditation claim).

- Course purpose

The aim of this master's in Advanced Practice is to equip you with an understanding of international, political, social and ethical issues of reproduction, and a scientific basis for examining maternity policy and practice. You will gain knowledge and understanding of the social and political context of reproduction and maternal health policy, evidence-based practice and research methods.

- Course format and assessment

The majority of assessment is by coursework; some modules are also assessed by examination.

Career prospects

Consultant midwife leading services for teenagers; research midwife managing a clinical trial on the role of vitamins in preventing pre-eclampsia; midwifery lecturer.

Core modules for the MSc:

- Maternity Service Leadership and Delivery (30 credits): The module will enable students to critically inquire into the leadership skills required within and between health care professionals endeavouring to provide high quality maternity care.

- Evidence Based Decision Making in Healthcare (30 credits): This module aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to identify best evidence for their practice. It focuses on searching for, appraising and synthesising evidence from health care research.

- Measurement and Evaluation for Healthcare Practice (15 credits): This module aims to provide students with a broad knowledge of the key approaches and techniques used in healthcare research and evaluation. It intends to promote students’ understanding of published articles and enhance skills for critiquing research articles.

- Dissertation (60 credits): This module enables students to undertake a substantial written project relevant to their field of practice. Students draw on learning and skills acquired in the taught components of the MSc programme. The module offers a choice of one of three options: an analysis of an area of healthcare provision, an empirical study, or a systematic review.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/index.aspx

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Diploma MSc is an award-winning provider of online medical education for Postgraduate Diploma and Masters courses. We are now pleased to add the Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Postgraduate Diploma and Masters online courses to our growing range. Our Health Economics courses are offered in conjunction with our partner, the University of South Wales, who have developed a strong reputation for delivering innovative learning.

With a dramatic increase in the demand for fertility services and IVF treatment in the hands of the specialist, there is an increasing need for knowledge in the treatment and management of fertility issues at primary care level. This includes conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, which has a prevalence of 10% amongst females as well as low testosterone and erectile dysfunction amongst men. Similarly, with 10% of couples presenting to primary care with issues relating to fertility, this is a common primary care problem yet it is not covered adequately in training.

Our courses in sexual and reproduction medicine are applicable to GPs, doctors, nurses, physicians and pharmacists with an interest in sexual and reproduction medicine.

Postgraduate Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine

Our online 1 year Postgraduate Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine will focus on direct application to current topics, case studies and processes relevant to the student’s own remit and country of practice. The course is worth 120 credits and comprises 6 modules of 20 credits each.

On completion of the Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Diploma, you will be able to demonstrate:
An understanding of the care of patients in sexual and reproductive medicine.
A critical awareness of current issues affecting the care of patients undertaking treatments in sexual and reproductive medicine.
Advanced knowledge of sexual and reproductive medicine that will facilitate decision-making in unpredictable and/or complex situations.
An ability to use knowledge to adapt professional practice to meet the changing demands of healthcare systems.

Course Structure

Our 1 year course consists of 6 modules per year, each of 6 weeks duration.

Module 1 - The Reproductive System, Fertility and Pregnancy
Module 2 - Sexual Function
Module 3 - Male Subfertility and Infertility
Module 4 - Female Subfertility and Infertility
Module 5 - Initial Management of the Infertile Couple
Module 6 - Assisted Reproduction and Ethics

Assessment

The course puts assessment at the heart of learning by using clinical scenarios to facilitate problem-solving, critical analysis and evidence-based care. The scenarios act as both the focus for learning and assessment thus embedding assessment within the learning process.

Each of the 6 modules has the same assessment format. Due to the online nature of the course, students are expected to login and participate in the course regularly throughout the module (ideally on a daily basis).

Students use the skills gained during the lectures to engage with the different activities (see below).

Clinical case scenarios with case based discussion - 40%
Individual learning portfolio - 10%
Group/individual activity - 20%
Case based examination - 30%

Teaching Methods

Each module has the same format. Using an online platform and one tutor per 10-15 students, the self-directed distance learning is guided by tutor stimulated discussion based on clinically rich case scenarios. Group projects are undertaken alongside independent projects. Reflective practice is recorded in a reflective portfolio to help students consider how the learning can be translated into everyday work and practice. Teaching starts with 1 day of introductory lectures. Students may attend these lectures in the UK (Glyntaff campus, University of South Wales). The lecture series are delivered by the faculty and tutors, they are a pre-course organiser, giving students the tools required to undertake the online course such as:

Scientific writing.
Levels of evidence.
Harvard referencing.
Reflective writing.

The lectures series give an opportunity to meet face to face with tutors/other students prior to the online course.

MSc Sexual and Reproductive Medicine

The Sexual and Reproductive Medicine MSc course provides a progression route for the Postgraduate Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine course offered by the University, and has been developed for GPs, doctors, nurses, physicians, pharmacists, and other suitably qualified individuals with an interest in sexual and reproduction medicine.

Entry to the 1 year MSc in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine will require the successful completion of the Postgraduate Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine (120 credits) either from the University of South Wales or from another UK University.

Our 1 year Sexual and Reproductive Medicine MSc is the shortest route to MSc certificate available and is delivered online. You will be able to learn around existing work commitments.

On completion of the Sexual and Reproductive Medicine MSc, you will be able to demonstrate mastery and autonomous working in an extended area of sexual and reproductive medicine practice.

Course Structure

Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal in Sexual and Reproductive Medicine.
Professional Project: Sexual and Reproductive Medicine.

Teaching Methods

Module 1: Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal - MSc teaching methods for this module are similar to the PG Diploma course modules, however it is run over 12 weeks.
Module 2: Professional Project - To produce the professional project, students continue to use the online course; however much of the work is self-directed.

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This module aims to provide a scientific and clinical understanding of the biology of human embryo implantation, establishment of pregnancy, early pregnancy and embryo development. The module will provide insight into problems with reproduction that manifest clinically. Human reproduction will be studied in light of underlying scientific understanding and clinical evidence at the forefront of research in this area.

Module content

Topics covered in the course include:
-Structure and function of reproductive system.
-Human embryo formation and growth.
-Implantation of embryo including: Communication between embryo and endometrium, species-specific signalling pathways
-Diagnosis of embryonic and maternal factors.
-Causes and potential treatments for reproductive failure during implantation and early pregnancy, including: Recurrent implantation failure, endometrial scratch. biochemical pregnancy, clinical miscarriage.
-Multiple pregnancy.
-Factors affecting the evidence base for clinical care in reproduction.

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Programme description

This programme involves an in-depth scientific approach to managing health and welfare, reproduction, behaviour, nutrition and exercise for horses. You will also learn how to practically apply a scientific approach to benefit horse health, welfare and performance.

Our online programme is the first and only Equine Science programme to be hosted within an international centre of veterinary excellence. It provides students with detailed knowledge and understanding of equine science and its applications and is excellent preparation for enhancing your equine career or future independent research such as a a PhD.

Online learning

Our online learning technology is fully interactive, award-winning and enables you to communicate with our highly qualified teaching staff from the comfort of your own home or workplace.

Our online students not only have access to Edinburgh’s excellent resources, but also become part of a supportive online community, bringing together students and tutors from around the world.

Programme structure

The taught part of the programme consists of a series of courses, while the final year is devoted to a dissertation.

Certificate and Diploma courses:

• Research Methods in Equine Science
• Equine Digestion and Nutrition
• Equine Behaviour and Welfare
• Equine Orthopaedics
• Equine Reproduction
• Equitation Science
• Equine Exercise Physiology

Your final year dissertation of a maximum of 9,000 words will allow you to analyse and present relevant research data that you have collected yourself. Alternatively, you can undertake desk study to explore and develop your own area of interest.

Read more about how the programme is structured:

• Programme structure

Programme duration

The full MSc Equine Science programme can be completed within two years if students wish to study several courses at any one time, so all taught courses are completed in one year and the second year is devoted to a dissertation project.

Alternatively students can take up to 6 years to complete the full MSc programme and there is also the option to graduate with either an Equine Science postgraduate certificate or diploma.

Postgraduate Professional Development

Postgraduate Professional Development (PPD) is aimed at working professionals who want to advance their knowledge through a postgraduate-level course(s), without the time or financial commitment of a full Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate.

You may take a maximum of 50 credits worth of courses over two years through our PPD scheme. These lead to a University of Edinburgh postgraduate award of academic credit. Alternatively, after one year of taking courses you can choose to transfer your credits and continue on to studying towards a higher award on a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme. Although PPD courses have various start dates throughout a year you may only start a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme in the month of September. Any time spent studying PPD will be deducted from the amount of time you will have left to complete a Masters, Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate programme.

• More information on PPD

Career opportunities

Graduates from this research-rich, taught MSc will be prepared for employment in research establishments, such as universities and research institutions; industry, such as feed companies, stud farms, pharmaceuticals and consultancy firms; government organisations, such as ADAS and DEFRA; and welfare organisations such as the RSPCA, WSPA and WHW.

• Watch short film interviews with recent graduates from the programme

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Introduction

The Institute of Aquaculture is one of a handful of institutions world-wide wholly devoted to aquaculture science and is the only university department of its kind in the UK. The Institute is internationally recognised for both research and teaching and has more than 70 staff and 80 postgraduate students.

Our goal is to develop and promote sustainable aquaculture and in pursuit of this carry out research across most areas of aquaculture science including:
- Reproduction and Genetics
- Health Management
- Nutrition
- Environmental Management
- Aquaculture Systems and International Development

Key information

- Degree type: Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma, MSc
- Study methods: Full-time
- Start date: September The course is available on a block-release basis (by selecting individual or a series of modules) over a period not exceeding five academic years.
- Course Director: Dr Trevor Telfer

Course objectives

Students will attain background knowledge in the principles of aquaculture and key factors influencing viability of aquatic animal production systems, including an understanding of aquatic animal biology, environmental issues, nutrition, reproduction and genetics, disease and health management.
The course provides advanced knowledge in chosen areas from; advanced broodstock management, aquaculture policy and planning, livelihoods analysis, geographic information systems, environmental management and biodiversity, feed formulation and resources, economics, marketing and business studies, shrimp culture, aquaculture engineering, aquatic animal health control, epidemiology, and ecotoxicology.
Students will be able to appraise aquaculture operations and contribute to management decision making. The student will have the skills necessary to establish, manage and appraise aquaculture enterprises and development projects from within the industry or public sector.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must have one of the following qualifications as evidence of your English language skills:
- IELTS: 6.0 with 5.5 minimum in each skill
- Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): Grade C
- Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): Grade C
- Pearson Test of English (Academic): 54 with 51 in each component
- IBT TOEFL: 80 with no subtest less than 17

For more information go to English language requirements https://www.stir.ac.uk/study-in-the-uk/entry-requirements/english/

If you don’t meet the required score you may be able to register for one of our pre-sessional English courses. To register you must hold a conditional offer for your course and have an IELTS score 0.5 or 1.0 below the required standard. View the range of pre-sessional courses http://www.intohigher.com/uk/en-gb/our-centres/into-university-of-stirling/studying/our-courses/course-list/pre-sessional-english.aspx .

Structure and content

The MSc course at the Institute of Aquaculture is highly modularised and is designed to give considerable flexibility for learning, while maintaining a high standard of training. This structure allows students to make more subject choices which will benefit their future career and also have greater flexibility of learning over time. There is a number of degree outcomes available. These differ primarily in their defined path of required modules; specialised outcomes have more compulsory modules where the Sustainable Aquaculture degree has greater choice.

Delivery and assessment

In addition to lectures, tutorials and seminars, a number of assignments must be completed. Laboratory-based practical sessions and fieldwork are also important elements of the course. Taught module assessment is continuous, involving short tests, seminars, essays, practical reports, critical and computational analysis, field assignments and set project reports. The Research Project module is examined through written dissertation and seminar presentations by both examiners and the external examiner.

Why Stirling?

REF2014
In REF2014 Stirling was placed 6th in Scotland and 45th in the UK with almost three quarters of research activity rated either world-leading or internationally excellent.

Rating

The Institute of Aquaculture, with a rating of 2.45 in the latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), was graded the top aquaculture department in the UK.

Strengths

The Institute has been closely associated with the global expansion of aquaculture initially through developing and improving the existing production systems and the development of new farmed species.
In recent years our research has focused on increasing the sustainability and security of aquaculture development and practice, and improving the efficiency of utilising natural resources.
This gives out students the unique opportunity to be associated with these activities and obtain an insight into all aspects of aquacultural sciences and development worldwide.

Careers and employability

- Career opportunities
This course has run for over 30 years and has trained over 620 students from all over the world. The comprehensive nature of the course and our close links with UK and overseas industry allows good potential for employment in any aspect of commercial aquaculture. Approximately 30 percent of our students follow a direct route into industry.
Additionally, the course is an excellent grounding for research and further education, often building on the dissertation, and about 30 percent of graduates choose this route. Links with government departments throughout the world allow many of our graduates to establish careers in aquaculture development and aquaculture management in developing countries.

- Employability
We have designed our taught postgraduate courses so that, in addition to learning about your specialist discipline, you will be exposed to, and trained in, a number of skills which are not specific to aquaculture but which employers increasingly expect.
The majority of our MSc research projects are developed in association with industry and are aimed at solving problems for the aquaculture industry. We also have an informal internship programme with industry, which will involve suitable students in real commercial projects. In the past these have included: development projects in Thailand and Vietnam, investigating carrying capacity for Indonesian aquaculture, and working with aqua-treatments within the pharmaceutical industry.

- Industry connections
We work closely with the aquaculture industry in more than 20 countries, including every major company in Scotland, giving many of our students an opportunity to carry out industry-based research projects. During the course there are visits to various companies. Lectures and workshops in a number of modules are given by aquaculture professionals from Scotland.

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Developing your knowledge and skills for a scientific/clinical career

As a graduate in the life-sciences, this MSc in Reproductive and Developmental Biology can help you reach the next stage of your career - be that PhD posts, entry to medical school, or clinical speciality training. With both a full-time MSc and a PGCert (Postgraduate Certificate) on offer, you can choose the pathway most suited to you, and use the specific scientific skills and the transferable skills we give you to take the next step.

Is this programme for you?

Applicants to this course are looking to improve your theoretical knowledge in the areas of reproductive and developmental biology, alongside gaining practical skills within a vibrant research environment.

Please note that we do not provide training in any technologies or techniques of Assisted Reproduction (IVF); however, previous students have gained places on the highly competitive Scientist Training Programme that is now required for those who wish to work as embryologists within the NHS.

You will need to be an independent person, who is looking for a challenge. If you're not afraid of hard work, then we would welcome an application from you.

Application

Offers are made on a first-come, first served basis. Once places are filled, we will close to new applications, so ensure that you submit your application sooner, rather than later.

You will receive notification of a conditional offer or rejection in the weeks following your submission. If you do not hear from us, it is because you have been placed on the waiting list.

Please note that we are unable to consider your application without at least one academic reference from your most recent institution.

Programme structure

Both courses start with six months of teaching on our current understanding of key topics in reproductive and developmental biology. This is split into 6 topics:

•Development of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems
•Endocrinology - Activation of the Gonads and Regulation of Gametogenesis
•Fertilisation and Early Embryo Development
•Experimental Approaches to Improved Understanding of Reproduction and Development
•Pregnancy
•Development and Stem Cell Biology

During this taught component, you will receive practical training in, for example:

•Microscopy (dissection, confocal, and fluorescence)
•QPCR
•Western Blotting

You will be assessed throughout the course component, with the PG Certificate concluding with the final examination in March. At this point, MSc students will enter their research project.

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