MSc Clinical Embryology(Distance Learning)

Year 1

Learning outcomes

On completion of the programme students should be able to:
- Discuss the latest developments in our understanding of the endocrinological control of human reproduction, gametogenesis, fertilization in vivo and early embryonic development
- Use a wide range of routinely used laboratory techniques in molecular biology, cell biology and genetics e.g. PCR, rtPCR etc.
- Have a profound knowledge of normal male and female reproductive function and the causes and management of subfertility
- Understand the principles and practices of tissue culture – especially as they relate to gamete, zygote and embryo culture and in vitro fertilisation
- Establish and maintain such quality assurance procedures which are essential to the reliable operation of an IVF clinic
- Understand the importance of assisted fertilization techniques and know how to carry out micromanipulation techniques
- Evaluate the latest developments and techniques used for cryopreservation of oocytes, spermatozoa, zygotes, cleavage stage embryos and blastocysts as well as the options for cryopreservation of ovarian and testicular biopsies
- Assess the HFE Act and HFEA Code of Practice in relation to: duties and responsibilities as embryologists; IVF systems; embryos; and discuss the wider ethical issues involved in infertility treatments
Show advanced skills in report writing, oral and visual presentations as well as constructive and critical discussion and comparison of topics and techniques
Design a research proposal related to the field of ART which includes a critical review of the relevant literature, development of a research question / hypothesis, presentation of preliminary evidence to support the hypothesis, choosing and justification of the appropriate investigative methodology and review and justification of the resources required.

Transferable (key) skills

Masters (Taught) students will have had the opportunity to acquire the following abilities as defined in the modules specified for the programme:
- the skills necessary to undertake a higher research degree and/or for employment in a higher capacity within a clinical utilising assisted reproductive technology;
- evaluating their own achievement and that of others;
- self direction and effective decision making in complex and unpredictable situations;
- independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development;
- critical engagement in the development of good practice and quality assurance procedures in a professional setting.

Assessment

Achievement for the degree of Master (taught programme) will be assessed by a variety of methods in accordance with the learning outcomes of the modules specified for the year/programme and will involve the achievement of the students in:
- evidencing an ability to conduct independent in-depth enquiry within the discipline;
- demonstrating the ability to apply breadth and/or depth of knowledge to a complex specialist area;
- drawing on a range of perspectives on an area of study;
- evaluating and criticising received opinion;
- making reasoned judgements whilst understanding the limitations on judgements made in the absence of complete data.
- the skills necessary to undertake a higher research degree and/or for employment in a higher capacity within a clinical utilising assisted reproductive technology;
- evaluating their own achievement and that of others;
- self direction and effective decision making in complex and unpredictable situations;
- independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development;
- critical engagement in the development of good practice and quality assurance procedures in a professional setting.