Course summary

This innovative blended learning programme will provide you with a comprehensive understanding and set of skills relevant to the exciting and important field of human reproduction and development. Please note, this programme is delivered mostly via distance learning, with a short period of time in Bristol (up to three weeks per year). You will study fundamental systems, principles and processes, including the physiological basis and endocrine regulation of gamete formation, fertilisation, implantation and pregnancy. From practicing clinical experts, you will learn about the symptoms, causes, and mechanisms of reproductive disease and dysfunction, as well as the clinical management of infertility, assisted conception, pregnancy complications and endocrine disorders. You will learn about and discuss cutting-edge academic and clinical research with internationally-recognised researchers. You will also develop your own research skills and be encouraged to think critically about the historical, social, political and legal context of current issues relevant to this exciting, fast-moving field. Our interdisciplinary programme is designed to appeal to a wide range of postgraduate students. Our full-time and part-time study options allow students to work flexibly and balance your studies with other responsibilities. A unique aspect of our programme is the combination of face-to-face teaching with web-based technology to support distance learning. Intensive teaching workshops are held online and in Bristol each year, delivered by expert academics, scientists and health professionals. These workshops are made up of lectures, research seminars, group work, and practical sessions that provide an overview of relevant laboratory methodologies and clinical practices. Teaching from the workshops is then augmented by innovative online materials, assignments and activities to help you to consolidate your learning. An interesting variety of assessment activities will enable you to showcase and enhance your understanding and transferrable skills. For example, producing posters, infographics and delivering presentations will demonstrate your ability to communicate complex scientific and clinical information to a range of different stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, patients and research funders. Master's students will write a research dissertation based on their own in-depth exploration of the research literature around a focused topic related to reproduction and development.