Clinical Embryology and Assisted Reproduction Technology MSc

Course overview

The MSc in Clinical Embryology and Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART) is a full-time, specialised, vocational course that offers a unique opportunity to study and prepare for a rewarding career in a dynamic field that carries the potential to transform lives.

The course is for recent graduates in biology, biomedical science, biochemistry, and medical or nursing disciplines who aspire to make a significant impact in clinical embryology, andrology and assisted reproduction technology.

The course covers the theory of reproductive biology, pathology and infertility, clinical andrology, clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technologies, fertility laboratories and their design and management, molecular embryology and genetic testing, controversial topics in ART, and fertility cryopreservation.

This course has a strong laboratory focus that will expose you to specialist laboratory techniques used in human and animal embryology, andrology and ART and reproductive research. The MSc culminates with the development of a unique capstone research project portfolio that integrates your theoretical understanding with your research and laboratory training through the conduct of an original research proposal.

You’ll learn from tutors with extensive experience in training clinical embryologists and reproductive scientists, and interact with clinical embryology practitioners and IVF specialists.

The course will provide you with a superb springboard to develop further in your chosen field. Whether you envision a future in research, public sector work or its commercial application, it will allow you to progress your career prospects and demonstrate your value to prospective employers in the field of clinical embryology, reproductive technology and reproductive science.

Practical mastery and applied learning: One of the flagship elements of our CEART MSc course is its strong emphasis on hands-on, laboratory-based learning experiences. Our state-of-the-art teaching and research laboratory facilities provide an unparalleled setting for students to apply theoretical concepts in a practical context. These opportunities help solidify foundational knowledge and offer invaluable experience and exposure to methodologies and technologies currently shaping the field of reproductive science and assisted conception treatments. Whether it is honing techniques such as IVF, ICSI, gamete handling or cryopreservation, you'll acquire and refine the practical skills that are directly applicable in a professional setting. This unique blend of theory and practice sets our course apart and ensures you are well prepared for a future career in reproductive science, clinical embryology, clinical andrology and assisted reproduction technology.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: The CEART MSc course is hosted by the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine within the School of Medicine which fosters a rich, interdisciplinary teaching and research environment. You'll have the unique opportunity to work alongside and learn from world-renowned reproductive scientists, senior embryology practitioners, reproductive medicine clinicians, and scientists with other areas of expertise, drawing from their varied expertise to gain a comprehensive understanding of the field.

Groundbreaking research: Our faculty members participate in world-leading research in areas including gamete and embryo biology, imprinting and epigenetics, the in vitro growth and maturation of oocytes, fertility preservation, and uterine and placental biology. This pioneering academic environment, will help position you at the forefront of advancements in the field of reproductive science, embryology and ART.

International community: A course highlight is the international network opportunity it offers, with students from a diverse range of backgrounds. This global network can be instrumental in shaping your career path and broadening your understanding of international practices in clinical embryology, clinical andrology and ART.

Real-world impact: Unlike many academic courses, the CEART MSc course has the potential to have a direct and profound effect on people's lives. It is designed for those who not only wish to excel in their scientific pursuits but also yearn to make a tangible difference in the world.

Specialist facilities

Teaching delivery: The CEART course is delivered using an impressive suite of classrooms and specialist laboratory-based teaching and research facilities all located within the thriving main campus of the University of Leeds. These are specifically designed to support the delivery of our cutting-edge curriculum and facilitate a top-tier learning experience.

State-of-the-art laboratories: Our teaching laboratories are equipped with the latest technologies and instruments necessary for studying reproductive sciences and ARTs. These labs are the venues for extensive practical training sessions where you will apply your theoretical knowledge. You will gain hands-on experience of an extensive range of assisted reproduction technologies including oocyte recovery, maturation and denudation, sperm preparation and counting, IVF, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), embryo culture and grading, and gamete and embryo cryopreservation, advanced andrology techniques, as well as research methods such as microscopy, and molecular biology techniques such as PCR.

Digital learning resources: Students are provided with University IT accounts and have access to our advanced Virtual Learning Environment (MINERVA). This digital platform is key to your learning and communication within the course and will serve as an essential tool and resource hub throughout your academic journey. Through MINERVA, your classroom and practical learning will be enhanced by related digital resources, including access to our library of recorded lectures and online module content. As a student on this course, you’ll have complete access to the extensive resources of the University of Leeds library. This includes relevant journals in human assisted reproduction, reproductive biology, reproductive and biomedical science, as well e-books. All resources are accessible remotely (electronically), offering you the utmost flexibility in your learning.

Student support services and student education services: A comprehensive range of support services is offered by the University to help and support your journey as a student at Leeds. These state-of-the-art facilities ensure you have every opportunity to learn, explore and develop the skills required to thrive in your future career. You’ll be allocated an academic personal tutor who’ll work in partnership with you to support your personal and professional development. You’ll also be assisted by student education service staff who can offer guidance where needed.

Course details

The CEART MSc is a full-time, 12-month course that combines an in-depth theoretical knowledge with practical experience in the field of reproductive science, embryology and ART.

Semester 1

This semester is devoted to providing you with sound foundations in the subject area by establishing an in-depth theoretical understanding of the core reproductive biology and science that underpins human reproduction, including areas such as gametogenesis, fertilisation, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, female infertility, and associated pathologies. Next, a focus on clinical andrology will allow you to explore the theory behind subjects including male infertility, male fertility treatments and semen analysis and processing. In the embryology in practice module, you’ll explore the typical essential laboratory techniques such as those used for fertilisation, including in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), embryo culture, in addition to other common laboratory practices that are undertaken in the ART clinic. You’ll also commence your ART laboratory training, starting from basic laboratory principles followed by progressive training in procedures related to ART.

Semester 2

You’ll learn about the real-world challenges faced by fertility clinics, covering laboratory layout and the facilities that are present in fertility clinics, lab management and procedures for quality assurance and how to apply this knowledge. Next, you’ll move on to explore the theory related to more advanced topics related to molecular embryology and the genetic testing of embryos. Finally, you’ll learn about fertility cryopreservation, where you’ll gain an understanding of cryobiology and its applications to gamete and embryo freezing, and fertility preservation. You’ll continue your ART laboratory training, developing your skills and moving on to more advanced training related to ART.

Semester 3

The final segment of the CEART course is devoted to the completion of a reflective log showcasing your ART laboratory training and the collation of a unique capstone research project portfolio that includes the conduct of an independent, theoretical, research project of your own choosing. The Capstone project experience will bring everything you’ve learnt together by providing you with the opportunity to integrate, develop and apply the theoretical knowledge and research and laboratory training gained during the course to a research problem related to the advancement of reproductive science, embryology or ART. In so doing, your project brings reflection, focus and purpose to the whole of your MSc degree experience. You’ll use your MSc experience to conduct an extensive literature review, formulate a hypothesis to address a key research question relevant to reproductive biology, embryology or ART. You’ll then design experiments in theory to address your hypothesis and analyse potential data outcomes. Your project portfolio will be the pinnacle of your Masters course and will not only showcase your knowledge of the field and skills to future employers, but it will also demonstrate your abilities to critically evaluate, interpret and communicate scientific data. Throughout this process, you’ll be mentored by a specialist project tutor, who’ll help you navigate the complexities of scientific research and ensure you produce a high-quality research project portfolio.

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the CEART MSc course, you will have:

• a comprehensive understanding of reproductive biology and science, and the theoretical principles and practical applications of clinical embryology, andrology and assisted reproduction technologies
• developed a solid skill set in relevant laboratory practices such as gamete handling, IVF and ICSI, embryo culture, and gamete and embryo cryopreservation through hands-on laboratory training
• the opportunity to engage with the controversial issues of the discipline and to demonstrate how, more generally, to behave responsibly (professionally), and be aware of the relevant ethical landscapes to make informed decisions
• qualitative and quantitative skills in data interpretation and scientific presentation
• global and cultural insights to acknowledge and appreciate diversity and to engage with social, political, economic, legal, environmental, and technological perspectives
• an awareness of the skills needed to be employable in the fields of clinical embryology, clinical andrology, reproductive medicine and/or reproductive science. This will be achieved by provision of evidence of demonstrable transferable generic skills, as well as academic achievements and in so doing, graduating students will be able to develop and demonstrate the attributes that will make them employable.

Course structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

All modules below are compulsory with full-time delivery:

The Biology and Pathology of Reproduction (30 credits): You’ll gain a firm foundation in the reproductive biology and science of human reproduction and an understanding of key subjects that are fundamental to clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technology (ART). The module covers key processes including gametogenesis, fertilisation, preimplantation embryo development, implantation, pregnancy and explores the associated reproductive pathologies. The fundamental concepts of reproduction and early development as provided in this module will give you a solid platform for onward study in subjects related to clinical embryology and ART. Key features are teaching delivery by active researchers in these subject areas.

Clinical Andrology (15 credits): This module will provide you with a comprehensive study of human andrology, encompassing diverse subjects such as men's health, male genetics and subfertility. You’ll be provided with an in-depth understanding of male reproduction. The curriculum will inform you on key topics such as semen analysis, surgical sperm retrieval, and advancements in sperm selection methods, equipping students with the knowledge of how to apply laboratory processes involved in sperm analysis and processing. Key features are delivery of teaching by experienced clinical andrologists.

Embryology in Practice (15 credits): You’ll explore essential laboratory techniques such as fertilisation methods including in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), embryo culture and quality assessment. You’ll explore microbiology considerations that are relevant to the ART lab, management and understanding the legal, ethical and controversial topics that underpin these technologies. Key features are learning the theory of key techniques that are at the core of work performed in ART laboratories worldwide.

Fertility spaces: Innovations in Design and Practice (30 credits): You’ll work in teams to address real-world challenges faced by fertility clinics, such as optimising operational efficiency and integrating reproductive technologies to meet the requirements of the design brief. Lectures will cover essential layout and facilities in fertility clinics, sustainable design practices, management and quality assurance practices and the latest innovations in clinic technology and operations. Key features are working with a group and showcasing your progress by the application of your knowledge into a defined lab design project.

Fertility preservation (15 credits): You’ll explore the critical techniques and scientific principles behind cryobiology and cryopreservation. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of both traditional slow freezing and modern vitrification methods, emphasising their application in preserving sperm, oocytes, embryos, blastocysts, and gonadal tissues. The module addresses the latest advancements in fertility preservation, preparing students for effective application in assisted reproductive technologies. Key features are the combination of learning biological concepts and clinical application of cryopreservation, a key procedure in ART laboratories.

Molecular embryology and genetic testing (15 credits): You’ll address the molecular biology, genetic and epigenetic concepts related to Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART) and reproduction. This module provides you with a theoretical understanding of the techniques used in preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) that are used for the screening, diagnosis and avoidance of inherited genetic disease. You'll learn about the developmental, genetic and epigenetic themes that are relevant to reproduction and early development, infertility, and ARTs and look to the emerging developments in these areas that are informed by the latest research. Key features are the exploration of scenarios in genetics, epigenetics and associated research areas related to ART.

Assisted Reproduction Technology: Research and Development (60 credits): This module provides you with detailed insight into reproductive research and provides extensive hands-on laboratory training in reproductive science, embryology, andrology and assisted reproduction technology (ART). The cornerstone of this module is the production and presentation of a unique Capstone research project. The Capstone project portfolio provides you with the opportunity to integrate your accumulated theoretical knowledge with reflections on your research training and acquire technical skill sets. You’ll use this experience to gain new knowledge and skills in creating a solution to a research problem. You’ll develop an original, theoretical research proposal that addresses a key research question in reproductive science, embryology, andrology or ART. You’ll conduct an extensive literature review and design experiments in theory to address their research hypothesis and analyse potential data outcomes. The project portfolio showcases student’s knowledge of research and ART, their skills in critical analysis, and their ability to evaluate, interpret and communicate scientific data. Projects will be mentored by a specialist project tutor who'll help students navigate the complexities of scientific research and so ensure production of a high-quality research project portfolio. Key features are the comprehensive laboratory training in ART techniques and the introduction to the world of reproductive research.

Learning and teaching

The CEART MSc course is delivered using a dynamic blend of teaching strategies that provide an engaging and inclusive learning environment and fosters a strong sense of community among students. We incorporate sector-leading teaching methods on topics that are driven by the latest research advances in our field. In this course we prioritise hands-on training and face-to-face interactions while also leveraging innovative, digital teaching platforms. Reflective learning is also a key feature of this course, allowing students to reflect, consolidate and grow from their learning journeys.

Your learning journey will be guided by our team of expert academics including lecturers and professors, reproductive medicine consultants and specialist clinical embryology and andrology practitioners, each of whom adds unique insights to the course content. We collaborate with experienced industry professionals and trained postgraduate researchers engaged in reproductive research. This will connect you to a wealth of knowledge from some of the leading minds working in clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technology, both nationally and internationally.

We're proud to offer a learning environment that uses a variety of formats and includes a backbone of traditional face-to-face lectures, tutorials and seminars combined with innovative digital technologies, delivering an inclusive, engaging, and active approach to learning. We encourage active learning through personalised interactions, group discussions and team working opportunities, as well as problem-based learning sessions and case studies. This approach will equip you with the skills needed to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

We recognise the importance of practical skills and research in the field of reproductive science, embryology and assisted reproduction technology. A significant part of your learning experience will involve ‘hands-on’ laboratory-based ART practical sessions and research training. Reflections on your laboratory and research sessions, coupled with the development of a theoretical research proposal will form your research project portfolio. Your unique project portfolio offers you the opportunity to use your theoretical and technical knowledge to address a key research question that will impact on clinical or research practice, showcasing your abilities to future employers.

Finally, we place emphasis on self-directed learning and provide you with extensive online resources. To aid your independent study, we provide access to our library of recorded lectures and electronic journals, digital module resources, and textbooks in our digital learning environment. This allows you the flexibility to delve deeper into topics that pique your interest and hone your skills at your own pace.

On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

A range of assessments are used including essays, presentations, team and individual projects and reflective logs. The assessments used require students to critically evaluate topics and form and express evidence-based opinions across a range of subjects.

The variety of assessments used are fair and inclusive and will test different aspects of your ability to draw from both your practical experience and academic knowledge which will help you to develop and demonstrate your transferable skills and build confidence in your ability to communicate on defined subject areas.

Choice will also be a feature built into some of these assessments, allowing you to select topics that appeal to your interests. Examinations and OSCEs are used to assess student understanding and application of the knowledge gained throughout the course.

These skills are applicable to real world scenarios, such as in the workplace, and helps students train for oral assessments in interview scenarios. Preparation of an original, research project portfolio will provide you with the opportunity to reflect on the knowledge and skills you have acquired across the course and will help you to delve deeper into a chosen area of reproductive science, embryology or assisted reproduction in order to assess your understanding of research methods and experimental technique in your chosen topic of study. The use of reflective logs will allow you to document and showcase your experience and learning journey, for example in the practical training.

Through this multi-faceted approach to learning, teaching and assessment we aim to develop understanding and practical ability in the field of reproductive science and biology, embryology, clinical andrology and assisted reproduction technology, while fostering an inclusive and active learning environment. We believe this approach will not only equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge for a career in this sector, but also instill a sense of belonging and community among our students.

Applying

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) in an appropriate biological, biomedical or veterinary science subject, medicine or healthcare sciences, or equivalent qualification.

Your experience in laboratory related settings will be considered but you do not have to demonstrate any set number of hours or competency.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Science (6 weeks) and Language for Science: General Science (10 weeks). 

We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. Find out more about our six week online pre-sessional.

You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.

How to apply

Applications are considered on the basis of the applicant’s qualifications, experience and demonstration of vocational intent. The number of places is limited. Applications may close before the deadline date if numbers accepted reach capacity.

The deadline to submit an application is 1 May 2024.

One reference is required at the point of application from a discipline related to the course you are applying to. If you are a recent graduate, the reference should be an academic referee. The reference should be provided on a headed document with either a stamp from the institution or an electronic signature.

You will be asked to submit a short written supporting statement of up to a maximum of 500 words, outlining your reasons for wishing to undertake this vocational programme. You must demonstrate through your supporting statement how the CEART programme will be of direct benefit to your personal and professional development.

Please note the CEART programme is very popular with students. Places are offered on a first come first served basis. Once all of the available places are filled, other suitable applicants will be held on a waiting list in case a place should become available.

The ‘Apply’ link at the top of this page takes you to information on applying for taught programmes and to the University's online application system.

If you're unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

School of Medicine Taught Postgraduate Policy 2024

This course is taught by

School of Medicine

Contact us

School of Medicine Postgraduate Admissions

Email: pgmed-admissions@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Fees

UK: £20,000 (Total)

International: £41,000 (Total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

Additional cost information

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government.  Find out more at Masters funding overview.

Career opportunities

As a graduate of the CEART MSc course you’ll be well-prepared for a variety of fulfilling careers within the fields of reproductive science, assisted human reproduction, the veterinary embryo transfer industry, tissue banking, and other areas that require ART skills such as the conservation of rare species. The course’s blend of theoretical and practical training gives students the knowledge and skills to excel in professional environments, being able to understand situations and react accordingly.

Embryologist, andrologist and reproductive technologist: Students developing a career in these specialisms will be employed either in public or private human infertility clinics, associated satellite industries such as donor tissue banks, or they will work in the veterinary embryo transfer industry. Careers of this nature all involve delivery of different aspects of fertility treatments and assisted reproduction technologies in humans and animal species. This may involve performing tasks such as gamete handling, IVF and ICSI, embryo transfer, cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, and preimplantation genetic testing in humans or animals. Many former students have entered into these positions successfully in various clinics internationally and in the UK.

Research scientist and laboratory technician: Those interested in employment in this capacity would expect to conduct and support research delivery in different areas of reproductive sciences and other branches of biology, or cellular and molecular sciences. The rigorous research and laboratory training provided in the course will equip you for these posts, which are based in university research laboratories, research institutions, or within the pharmaceutical industry.

Further study: Many of our graduates choose to continue their academic journey by enrolling in doctoral research courses. Our graduates have pursued their PhDs in different branches of reproductive science and reproductive medicine at the University of Leeds and at other universities worldwide.

Careers support

Our school maintains strong ties with various organisations within the field, and our faculty employability contact can assist you in connecting with potential employers and provide you with the latest industry information. Regardless of the path you choose, the CEART MSc offers a robust foundation for your career in the fascinating and rapidly evolving field of reproductive sciences and technologies.

We encourage and support your preparation for your future career from day one through our unique ‘Step Forward Programme’. This is one of the reasons CEART graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and your course teaching faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate.

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.