IVF > Embryology courses > MSc - Part Time & Distance Learning

The Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology provides an innovative MSc programme
making extensive use of the Internet to provide a comprehensive theoretical foundation
in the areas of Human Reproduction and Development. The course is designed to
appeal to a wide range of post-graduate students including scientists and clinicians.
Residential workshops comprising of lectures and seminars as well as journal clubs,
practical sessions and assessments will be held in Bristol. During the introductory
module students will be assigned a project supervisor for their dissertation and
a personal tutor for pastoral needs. Each distance-learning module will entail
on-line tutorials and lectures plus essays and assessment by email and conferencing.

The programme consists of the following 7 units including a research project.
It is delivered principally over the Internet with 10 weeks of study in Bristol
over a period of one or two years.

Reproductive Physiology
and Endocrinology

The structure and function of the organs of the male and of the female reproductive
system and the role of the endocrine system in the control and maintenance of
reproduction

Gametogenesis to Implantation

The origin of gametes and gametogenesis in both the male and female

Normal Human Development

The principles of normal embryology together with an understanding of normal fetal
growth and the factors that influences this.

Statistics & Research
Methods

The principles of basic statistics for study design and analysis and to critically
evaluate published research

Assisted Reproductive
Technologies

A comprehensive understanding of the basis of infertility assessment and management
using assisted conception including familiarity with routine laboratory techniques.

Diagnosis and Management
of Abnormal Human Development

Clinical and laboratory methods that allow diagnosis of fetal abnormalities, current
treatment options and likely future developments

Research project

Conduct a literature appraisal of an appropriate area of study and present this
in written form and orally with a mini poster.

Duration

Two years part time or one-year fulltime study including no more than 10 weeks
in Bristol.

Assessment

Each unit is assessed independently based on essay, computer assisted assessment,
coursework and examinations. A written thesis and satisfactory defence in oral
examination and mini-poster presentation will assess the research project.

Entry Requirements

Applicants will require a honours degree in a biological or related science or
a medical degree and basic computer skills including word-processing and e-mail.
It will be the responsibility of the applicant to ensure access to a suitable
computer connected to the Internet for the duration of the course. Applicants
from non-English speaking countries will be required to furnish proof of their
proficiency in the English language.

Further Information

Contact Dr Kate Whittington
University of Bristol
Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology,
Level D, St. Michael's Hospital,
Bristol. BS2 8EG
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)117 928 5293
Fax: +44 (0)117 928 5290
Email: K.Whittington@bristol.ac.uk

Course website:

www.ReD-MSc.org.uk
Frequently asked
questions about course.

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