Infertility is a global problem, with approximately one in seven couples of reproductive age, around 80 million people worldwide, being diagnosed as infertile. Therefore, globally, there is an increasing demand for assisted reproductive technology (ART) and growing opportunities for careers in this field. This course provides a robust and wide-ranging education in human clinical embryology, andrology, and ART, from clinical, research, and laboratory perspectives. The emphasis of the course is on humans, and offers, for example, practical experience in handling and preparing sperm. Throughout the course, you'll develop high-level laboratory skills, including learning how to use equipment relating to sperm and egg retrieval and, subsequently, assisted conception.

Teaching will take place on-site at a working university hospital, Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, Scotland, and you will have the opportunity to attend National Health Service (NHS) clinics and follow patient journeys, from initial consultations through the entire ART process. This will give you a strong understanding of clinical procedure alongside the scientific process, and how what happens in the laboratory can affect patient experience. You'll also explore research in the field, designing, and undertaking your own research project. You'll be taught by a mix of experienced embryologists, andrologists, scientists, and clinicians, and this will give you the well-rounded knowledge and skills to enter a career in ART, either in a clinical or research setting.

Careers:

Due to the increased global demand for infertility treatment, there is growing need for high quality laboratory and clinical staff in this area. Following successful completion of this course, students could apply for a training position in ART, for example in embryology and/or andrology. Alternatively, the course would prepare graduates 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.