2026/27 Taught Postgraduate Programme Catalogue

MSc Clinical Embryology and Assisted Reproduction Technology

Programme overview

Programme code
MSC-CEMB/ART
UCAS code
Duration
12 Months
Method of Attendance
Full Time
Programme manager
Dr John Huntriss
Contact address
J.Huntriss@leeds.ac.uk
Total credits
180
School/Unit responsible for the parenting of students and programme
Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine
Examination board through which the programme will be considered
Relevant QAA Subject Benchmark Groups
The QAA guidance for the conferment of a Masters degree are as follows:
- Systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights into clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technology , much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of their academic discipline, field of study, or area of professional practice.
- Comprehensive understanding of techniques relevant to clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technology and applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship.
- Originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline of clinical embryology and assisted reproduction technology.

Typically, holders of the Masters qualification will be able to:
- Deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgments in the absence of complete data, and communicate their conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
- Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems, and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level.
- Continue to advance their knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level.

Masters graduates will also have the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring:
- The exercise of initiative and personal responsibility.
- Decision-making in complex and unpredictable situations
- The independent learning ability required for continuing professional development.
- Skills in conducting and writing up a piece of original research.

Entry requirements

Entry Requirements are available on the Course Search entry

Programme specification

The MSc/PGDip in Clinical Embryology and Assisted Reproduction Technology (CEART) are full-time, specialised vocational courses designed to prepare you for a dynamic and rewarding career in reproductive science, clinical embryology, and assisted reproduction. The CEART MSc and PGDip are ideal for graduates in biology, biomedical science, biochemistry, and related medical disciplines who are looking to make a significant contribution to reproductive science, clinical embryology, andrology, and ART (Assisted Reproduction Technology).

Programme Content

The CEART programme covers the following areas:

- Theoretical foundations of human reproduction and infertility (PGDip and MSc).
- Clinical andrology (PGDip and MSc).
- Clinical embryology (PGDip and MSc).
- Laboratory practices and management in clinical embryology (PGDip and MSc).
- Fertility cryopreservation techniques (PGDip and MSc).
- Molecular embryology and genetic testing (PGDip and MSc).
- Practical training in techniques used in ART (MSc programme only).
- Research proposal development in reproductive science and ART (MSc programme only).
- Practical Mastery and Applied Learning (MSc)

A distinctive feature of the CEART MSc programme is its strong emphasis on practical, laboratory-based training. Using state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, you will engage in hands-on learning experiences that allow you to master essential techniques used in clinical embryology and reproductive research, such as oocyte recovery, sperm preparation, IVF, ICSI, and cryopreservation. This practical training is seamlessly integrated with theoretical learning to ensure you can apply your knowledge as a sound foundation for taking the next steps in a professional setting, making you well-prepared for a career in clinical embryology, reproductive science, or ART. The MSc course culminates with the development of a unique research proposal and laboratory training portfolio. This integrates theoretical understanding with research and laboratory training, and the conduct of an original research proposal.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration and Research Excellence

The Clinical Embryology and Assisted Reproduction Technology programme is delivered within the Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine - a rich interdisciplinary environment. You will learn from and collaborate with leading reproductive scientists, senior embryology practitioners, and clinicians, gaining insights into cutting-edge research areas such as gamete and embryo biology, fertility preservation, and molecular embryology. This exposure to a broad spectrum of expertise will enable you to develop a comprehensive understanding of the field and position you at the forefront of advancements in reproductive science.

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Digital Resources

The CEART programme is delivered using a suite of dedicated classrooms specifically designed to support the delivery of our cutting-edge curriculum, and facilitate a top-tier learning experience, close to all the amenities that are available on campus. Our advanced Virtual Learning Environment, MINERVA, supports your learning journey, providing access to recorded lectures, e-books, and online journals to enhance both your classroom and laboratory experience.

For students undertaking the MSc variant, you will gain hands-on experience in an extensive range of ART techniques, from gamete handling to embryo culture and grading, under the guidance of experienced professionals in purpose-built teaching laboratories equipped with the latest technologies essential for studying reproductive sciences and ART.

Student Support

We offer individualised student support via regular meetings with academic personal tutors, and beyond this, ad-hoc drop-in sessions are always available where necessary, for example for signposting you to subject-specific support. A comprehensive range of student support services is offered by the University to help and support your student journey at Leeds. Disability services offer advice and programme-specific adjustments for students on a case-by-case.

International Community and Real-World Impact

As a student of the CEART programme, you will join a diverse international community, which provides a global exchange of ideas and perspectives. This international focus enhances your learning experience and broadens your professional network. The programme is designed for those who are not only passionate about scientific excellence but also aspire to make a difference in the world by contributing to advancements in reproductive health and fertility treatments.

Preparing for the Workplace

The CEART programme is structured to progressively develop a wide range of academic, technical, and professional skills, ensuring you are well-equipped for your future career. Whether the career vision is for a future in research, public sector work or its commercial application, this programme will provide students with a superb springboard to develop knowledge of their chosen field, to progress career prospects and to demonstrate their value to prospective employers in the field of clinical embryology, reproductive technology and reproductive science. The PGDip in CEART equips you with theoretical knowledge across modules in reproductive sciences, clinical andrology, embryology in practice, fertility spaces, fertility preservation, molecular embryology and genetic testing. The MSc in CEART not only equips you with theoretical knowledge across modules in reproductive sciences, clinical andrology, embryology in practice, fertility spaces, fertility preservation, molecular embryology and genetic testing but also helps you develop the practical skills needed to excel in the field of reproductive sciences. The research and laboratory portfolio module offers hands-on experience in clinical embryology and ART, forming a strong foundation for those aiming to become embryology practitioners or pursue further research, such as a PhD. In addition, you will benefit from “step forward” lectures that explore career options and guide you in shaping your professional path.

Year 1

[Learning Outcomes, Transferable (Key) Skills, Assessment]
View Timetable

Compulsory Modules

CodeTitleCreditsSemesterPass for Progression
REPR5270MThe Biology and Pathology of Reproduction30Semester 1 (Sep to Jan)PFP
REPR5271MClinical Andrology15Semester 1 (Sep to Jan)PFP
REPR5272MEmbryology in Practice15Semester 1 (Sep to Jan)PFP
REPR5273MAssisted Reproduction Technology: Research and Laboratory Portfolio60Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun)PFP
REPR5274MFertility Spaces: Innovations in Design and Practice30Semester 2 (Jan to Jun)PFP
REPR5275MFertility Preservation15Semester 2 (Jan to Jun)PFP
REPR5276MMolecular Embryology and Genetic Testing15Semester 2 (Jan to Jun)PFP

Last updated: 30/04/2026 16:02:41

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team