Reproductive and Developmental Medicine MSc

Program Overview

The MSc in Reproductive and Developmental Medicine at the University of Sheffield explores the scientific foundations of reproduction and development, with a focus on clinical applications. Led by experts in the field, the program covers a range of topics, including fertility issues, fetal development, and ethical considerations. Graduates are well-equipped for careers as embryologists, andrologists, or scientists in the field of reproductive medicine.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc program in Reproductive and Developmental Medicine delves into the scientific underpinnings of reproductive and developmental processes, exploring their clinical applications. The program aims to equip students with specialized knowledge, making them suitable for careers as scientists or clinicians, or preparing them for further training in IVF or embryology. The program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Fundamentals of Reproductive Science: Genetics, gonadal development, gamete production, embryo development, pregnancy, and labor.
• Clinical Applications: Disorders affecting fertility, fetal development, and pregnancy, along with their treatments.
• Social Issues: Ethical and legal debates surrounding reproductive medicine.
The program is taught by experts in the field, including clinicians, embryologists, reproductive counselors, genetic testing specialists, and scientists.

Outline:

The program is structured into two parts:

Part 1: Taught Modules (March)

• Research Skills in Reproductive Medicine (15 credits): This module provides general and subject-specific training in research and careers skills.
It covers topics like plagiarism, research methods, and communication skills. Students can choose from a range of analytical methods, including lab-based work, meta-analysis, and systematic review. Assessment includes three-minute thesis-style presentations and a portfolio incorporating reflective practice.
• Gonads to Gametes: Fundamentals of Reproduction (15 credits): This module introduces the fundamentals of reproductive biology, explaining sex determination, gonadal development, and gamete production.
It includes seminars on state-of-the-art scientific and special-interest research.
• Fertilisation, Implantation and Embryology (15 credits): This module covers the physiological events surrounding conception, from pre-fertilization to implantation and embryonic development.
It emphasizes the influence of the maternal environment on development and fertility.
• Fetal Development, Pregnancy and Parturition (15 credits): This module focuses on the biochemistry, physiology, and pathology of human pregnancy, fetal development, and parturition.
It covers maternal changes associated with pregnancy, birth, and the puerperium, as well as disorders of pregnancy, fetal development, labor, and delivery. It also covers essential skills for appraising and assessing research literature related to reproductive medicine and assisted conception.
• Law, Ethics and Policy in Reproductive Medicine (15 credits): This module examines legal and ethical principles relevant to reproductive medicine, focusing on key legislation like the Abortion Act, Warnock Report, and Human Fertilisation and Embryology Acts.
It also explores ethical principles like the Declaration of Helsinki and the role of ethics committees in research governance.

Part 2: Research Project (March to September)

• Research Project (Reproduction) (90 credits): This module provides students with the opportunity to apply research methods to test a scientific hypothesis and develop laboratory techniques.
Students choose from a list of projects and conduct a 25-week research project. Assessment includes a poster presentation, reflective reports, a thesis, and an oral examination.

Assessment:

Assessment methods include:

• Practical exercises with reflective reports
• Preparation of research articles
• Mock ethics committee presentations
• Systematic review and meta-analysis
• Poster presentation
• Short reflective reports
• Thesis
• Short oral exam based on written work

Teaching:

Teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Practical classes
• Independent study
The program takes place in Sheffield Teaching Hospitals' Jessop Wing, which houses working maternity wards, an assisted conception unit, an andrology clinic, imaging, ultrasound, and neonatology facilities, as well as dedicated teaching and lab space.

Careers:

This MSc program is a stepping stone towards further specialist training and careers in:

• Clinical embryology
• Andrology
Graduates work in NHS and private fertility clinics around the UK. Many have secured places in the NHS Scientist Training Programme.

Other:

• The program accepts medical students who wish to intercalate their studies.
• The program is reviewed annually to ensure its relevance and up-to-date content.
• The University of Sheffield has a student protection plan.
• Recognition of professional qualifications may require application to the host country for recognition.

Note:

The program content and assessment methods may be subject to change.