MSc Human Clinical Embryology and Assisted Conception

Overview

Are you interested in IVF, and the science of assisted conception? Infertility is a common problem, with approximately 1 in 7 couples of reproductive age being diagnosed as infertile – equating to 72.5 million people globally – and there is an increasing demand for assisted reproductive technology (ART).

MSc Human Clinical Embryology and Assisted Conception is an established taught Masters course which provides a robust and wide ranging education in human clinical embryology and ART, while helping you to develop high level laboratory skills in various aspects of reproductive medicine.

The emphasis of the course is on humans, and offers practical experience in handling and preparing sperm.

The University of Dundee has excellent clinical links and a close working relationship with the NHS, so you will benefit from a scientifically rigorous programme with teaching drawn from experienced embryologists, scientists and clinicians.

The blend of scientific practical skills and the integration with an NHS facility will give you first-hand experience and exposure to the workings of an IVF clinic, and will provide an excellent base to enter a career in ART, either in a clinical or research setting.

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)

The University of Dundee has been given a Gold award – the highest possible rating – in the 2017 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF).

Read more about the Teaching Excellence Framework

Teaching & Assessment

_{How you will be taught}

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Practical lab classes
• Group work
• Self-directed learning

The course consists of seven taught modules and a research project. There are a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, discussion and journal clubs as well as self-directed study. Through our Guest Lecture Series, you will also receive expert seminars from world leaders in the field. The research project will be carried out in either the research laboratory or the IVF clinic.

The programme is led by Professor Christopher Barratt who is Head of the Reproductive Medicine Group at the University of Dundee, as well as a clinical scientist with NHS Tayside. Academic staff also include Dr Vanessa Kay, Dr Sarah Martins Da Silva, Dr Steven Gellatly, Dr Therish Moodley, and honorary staff member Dr David Mortimer.

_{How you will be assessed}

• Practical and written examinations
• Coursework
• Written essays
• Lab reports
• Case study presentation
• Thesis
• Journal clubs

 _{What you will study}

The Masters is taught over three semesters with seven modules. These core modules provide a comprehensive education in the fundamentals of embryology and ART. Masters students need to attain 180 credits over these seven modules:

Semester 1

• GM51010 - Clinical Statistics
• GM51053 - Fundamental Science in Assisted Reproductive Techniques
• GM51071 - Basic Laboratory Skills

Semester 2

• GM52035 - Running a Successful ART Laboratory and Clinical Service
• GM52036 - Clinical Issues and Controversies in ART
• GM52040 - Advanced Laboratory Skills

Semester 3

• GM53009 - Research Project

Careers

Due to the increased demand for infertility treatment, there has been a substantial growth in the demand for high quality laboratory and clinical staff in this area.

Approximately 1 in 7 couples have fertility issues, with IVF accounting for approximately 2% of all births in the UK, and up to 6% in some EU countries.

Following successful completion of the MSc, students could apply for a training position in ART for example in embryology and/or andrology. Alternatively, the course would provide ideal preparation for undertaking a PhD or applying for a research position. Clinically qualified graduates would gain valuable skills to enable them to specialise in reproductive medicine and assume responsibility within an ART clinic.

Your Application

You apply for this course via the UCAS Postgraduate website which is free of charge. You can check the progress of your application online and you can also make multiple applications.

You'll need to upload relevant documents as part of your application. Please read the how to apply page before you apply to find out about what you'll need.

Visit the MSc Human Clinical Embryology and Assisted Conception page on the University of Dundee website for more details!