MRS0001, MRS0002, MRS0003, MRS0004, MRS0005

Coursework lectures for Master of Reproductive Sciences

Lectures Eight 50-minute lectures per week over approximately twenty-one weeks. Some of the topics covered include physiology of human and animal reproduction - testes, vas and accessory glands, penis, ovaries, uterus and estrous and menstrual cycles; fertilisation and its manipulation - IVF, cryopreservation and artificial storage of gametes and embryos, semen collection and analysis, development of preimplantation embryo and implantation; regulation of fertility - tubal ligation, abortion, steroid contraception, natural family planning, condoms, vasectomy and vasectomy reversal; infertility - its diagnosis and treatment in men and women; ethics; sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and parturition - placental structure and function, fetal development, reproductive and developmental toxicology and pregnancy and parturition disorders; neonates - fetal and neonatal monitoring, neonatal intensive care and SIDS.
Practical classes Compulsory practical classes conducted in first semester provide students with many of the basic laboratory and research skills necessary to work in the reproductive sciences. These are divided into basic laboratory skills, tissue culture and statistics.
Journal club A fortnightly journal club provides students with experience in reviewing, discussing and analysing scientific journal articles in a tutorial format.
Specialisation The course caters to a wide variety of interests by allowing students to concentrate on particular areas of reproductive biology. Students can develop skills and specialised expertise in one of the following areas: human reproduction, animal reproduction, women's health, molecular and cellular endocrinology, fetal and neonatal physiology, embryology and reproductive toxicology.
Assignments Students undertake two literature review assignments. Each of these involves working with a supervisor to refine a topic and analyse previously published material in an area of the student's interest.
Practical elective When commencing work on their major research projects, students first complete a practical exercise to learn one of the research skills required to complete their thesis research. The exercise is performed under their thesis supervisor and usually involves approximately thirty hours work over a few weeks at the beginning of second semester.
Thesis The thesis is an original study of a specialised area of reproductive biology. Students may choose topics from a variety of areas including human reproduction, animal reproduction health, fetal and neonatal physiology, molecular and cellular endocrinology, embryology and reproductive and developmental toxicology. Masters students complete these extensive research projects under an appointed supervisor. It is hoped that the research will produce a paper worthy of publication.

Assessment Tests and examinations: 35% · Core practical classes: 15% · Literature review assignments: 35% · Field trip reports: 5% · Practical elective report: 10%

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