Human Reproductive Biology

Why study Human Reproductive Biology at Dundee?

Infertility is a common disease with approximately 1 in 7 couples of reproductive age being diagnosed as infertile - equating to 72.5 million people globally. There is an increasing demand for Assisted Conception Treatment (ART) with up to 6% of births in the EU being a result of ART. As such there is a clear need for medical students to have up to date information on these subjects and provide them with the ability to analyse the subject critically. ART is consistently in the media (e.g. related to saviour sibling, sex selection, egg freezing etc.) and is a popular, interesting and stimulating subject for the students.

Skills and knowledge you will acquire during your MSc at the University of Dundee and IVF unit in Ninewells Hospital include:

• In-depth understanding of basic reproductive physiology and a detailed knowledge of human ART
• Semen analysis and training to ESHRE standards
• Aseptic technique
• Sperm preparation and cryopreservation
• Recruitment of patients and donors for research
• Preparation of ethical approvals and appreciation for the ethical issues in ART
• Detailed work with human eggs and sperm. Including assessment of gamete quality
• Embryos for research in specific cases
• Detailed and practical knowledge of the HFEA and legislative and regulatory framework
• Knowledge of basic IVF laboratory techniques e.g. preparation of dishes, witnessing
• Detailed knowledge of generation and use of human ES cells and iPS cells.

What's so good about studying Human Reproductive Biology?

Reproduction is as a subject is fascinating and has clear medical/clinical application e.g. in IVF. Importantly our course is linked with the IVFR unit at NHS Tayside and thus gives many opportunities for students to see how and IVF clinic operates and the clinical challenges that this subject brings.

Who should study this course?

Those interested in a career in reproductive medicine who wish on completion of the course to undertake a PhD. Additionally those students interested in a career in human embryology/IVF.

Related courses

• All Medicine PG courses

Teaching & Assessment

This course is taught by staff based in the School of Medicine.

There are three start dates for this course: January, September and May.

In certain cases, it can be taken on a part-time basis.
Please enquire for further details.

Careers

This degree is an effective way to start a career in human embryology, and our students have an excellent record of obtaining posts in this area.

Entry Requirements

BSc in Biological Science or equivalent degree (2:2 or equivalent as a minimum).

English Language Requirement: IELTS of 6.0 (or equivalent), if your first language is not English. Please check our Language Requirements page for details of equivalent grades from other test providers, and information about the University of Dundee English Language courses.

Fees and Funding

Sources of Funding

The School of Medicine is not currently offering any school scholarships.

Other sources of funding for postgraduate students can be found on our Scholarships webpage.

Living Costs

• Dundee is ranked as one of the most affordable places for students to live in the UK, and the cost of living is around 15% cheaper than the UK average.
• Increasing numbers of students are successfully undertaking part-time work to supplement their income. You can get advice from our Careers Service, both about job opportunities and how to find a suitable study/work/life balance. EU and international students are also allowed to work up to 20 hours per week.
• As a student in Scotland, you have free access to the National Health Service. Visits to doctors and hospitals, as well as prescriptions, sight tests and dental checkups, are available free of charge.

Your Application

How to Apply

Apply using the research degree application forms.