Module manager: Ivan Solvas Martinez
Email: i.solvasmartinez@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
See programme entry requirements
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module offers a comprehensive study of human andrology, encompassing diverse subjects such as men's health, male genetics, and subfertility. The goal is to provide you with an in-depth understanding of male reproduction. The curriculum includes topics such as semen analysis, surgical sperm retrieval, and advancements in sperm selection methods, equipping you with the knowledge of how to apply laboratory processes involved in sperm analysis and processing.
Objectives:
Principles of Human Andrology: Explore the theoretical principles and foundational practices that underpin the field of andrology, including the physiology and endocrinology of male reproduction.
Andrology Practice: Develop a comprehensive understanding of diagnostic techniques for semen analysis, adhering to WHO normal parameters. Gain skills in interpreting results, counselling patients, and evaluating emerging advancements in andrology diagnostics and treatments.
Understanding Male Infertility: Examine the causes of male infertility, encompassing genetic, congenital, infectious, and environmental factors. Explore how these factors influence diagnosis, treatment, and patient management in clinical andrology.
Teaching Methods and Learning Activities
Teaching:
You will learn through in person lectures, tutorials and seminars and are further supported via blended learning through online material available on Minerva.
How It Achieves the Objective: These lectures will provide in-depth explanations and demonstrations, enabling students to understand key concepts and techniques. Tutorials address specific problems and allow you to revise and consolidate understanding of module content with tutor guidance, reinforcing your learning with activity-based approaches. Seminars allow discussion and exploration of specific subjects. Online material is provided to you on Minerva to support your independent online learning.
UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF THE MODULE, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:
1. Andrology and Semen Analysis: Critically evaluate standard procedures for semen analysis and processing, interpret results to assess male fertility, and develop patient counselling strategies based on clinical findings.
2. Sperm Selection Methods: Summarise and critically assess the criteria for optimal sperm selection, incorporating the latest advancements in selection techniques to improve clinical outcomes.
3. Surgical Sperm Retrieval: Compare and evaluate surgical sperm retrieval techniques, considering procedural details, technical challenges, success rates, complications, and patient outcomes.
4. Men’s Health and Genetics of Male Infertility: Analyse the influence of lifestyle, environmental, and occupational factors on male fertility and critically review genetic causes of male infertility to support accurate diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Skills Learning Outcomes
UPON SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF THE MODULE, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:
1. Academic Skills: Critically analyse the principles and applications of clinical andrology in reproductive biology, addressing key research questions in male infertility and integrating research findings into academic assessments.
2. Technical Skills: Demonstrate a theoretical understanding of clinical andrology techniques, including semen analysis, advanced sperm selection methods, and surgical sperm retrieval, with an emphasis on their practical relevance.
3. Enterprise Skills: Apply ethical and legal frameworks to make informed and responsible decisions in the diagnosis and management of male infertility.
This module provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices in clinical andrology, focusing on semen analysis, sperm selection techniques, and surgical sperm retrieval. You will explore the clinical implications of male infertility, including the genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors that influence reproductive health. Through lectures, tutorials, and seminars, supported by blended learning via Minerva, you will develop a deep understanding of diagnostic techniques, their application, and ethical considerations in the management of male infertility. The module also emphasises patient counselling strategies, equipping you with the skills to effectively communicate clinical findings.
In-class tests, MCQs, and a Formative Objective Structured Clinical Examination (FOSCE), provide continuous feedback and scaffold your learning toward the summative OSCE assessment. These assessments, combined with interactive teaching sessions, ensure a thorough understanding of the module content, enabling you to critically evaluate and apply clinical andrology techniques in academic and professional settings.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Lecture | 6 | 1.5 | 9 |
| Seminar | 1 | 1.5 | 1.5 |
| Seminar | 1 | 2.5 | 2.5 |
| Independent online learning hours | 70 | ||
| Private study hours | 65 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 15 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150 | ||
Formative Feedback Opportunities
A variety of formative feedback methods will be used to monitor your progress and support student learning throughout the module.
1. In class tests: These include questioning and quizzes, which will be used to assess comprehension, identify learning needs, and track academic progress during lectures and other sessions. In class test occur in every lecture. These provide formative feedback for subjects covered in OSCEs and in assessed course work essays.
2. MCQs: You will have access to online formative MCQs that are available via Minerva. These assist students in preparation for OSCEs by driving learning across the breadth of the module.
3. FOSCE training: A Formative Objective Structured Clinical Examination (FOSCE) training session, allows you to experience exposure to the OSCE assessment format within a supportive formative environment and provides a driver for you to revise, practice and refine your knowledge of module content and skills in preparation for OSCEs.
4. Module Recap and Tutorial
A module recap and tutorial session will be held at the end of each of the three main subject areas, therefore for this module, a total of three tutorials will be held. These will be held during semester 1 and therefore prior to the final examination. In this session, you will analyse and discuss various scenarios and questions related to the module content, providing an opportunity to assess and deepen your understanding. Students will also be encouraged to raise questions and participate in interactive discussions on any aspect of the module. The aim of this session is to assess student progress, address any uncertainties, and consolidate academic skills in preparation for the summative assessment, particularly via OSCEs. Any issues that are outstanding after this session can be dealt with on a case-by-case basis in separate meetings.
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam) | 0.0 Hrs 20 Mins | 100 |
| Mock OSCE | 0.0 Hrs 20 Mins | 0 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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