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Monash University

Master of Reproductive Sciences

Course code: 0100 ~ Course abbreviation: MRepSc ~ Total credit points required: 96 ~ 4 semesters full-time ~ Managing faculty: Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences

Study mode and course location

On-campus (Clayton - F/T only; Monash Medical Centre, Clayton - F/T only)

Course description

This course is offered by the Education Program in Reproductive Biology, a joint venture of the Monash Institute of Medical Research and Prince Henry's Institute in association with the Monash departments within the School of Biomedical Sciences. Students are required to undertake an in-depth original study and are required to submit a major thesis for examination. The thesis should embody the results of an investigation carried out by the student, under supervision, which shows independence of thought and which demonstrates the student's ability to carry out research in the chosen discipline. Research may be undertaken in areas of human reproduction, animal reproduction, women's health, foetal and neonatal physiology, embryology, molecular and cellular endocrinology and reproductive toxicology. In addition, to provide a broad theoretical basis to their study, students must attend a series of coursework lectures covering a wide range of topics in reproductive biology.

Overall, this course provides medical and health professionals with advanced theoretical understanding and research training in the applications of reproductive biology, including emerging biotechnologies, to clinical human and veterinary medicine. It provides detailed training in current theories and principles of reproductive biology and medicine, including instruction and experience in various practical skills currently in use. It also offers knowledge and understanding of recent advances in reproductive technologies and their implications for professionals in various fields as well as advanced training in areas of specific interest. The course provides suitable training for those concerned with: research and development projects involving reproduction; IVF programs; medical and paramedical areas; development and implementation of policy on reproductive and population issues; developing areas of agriculture and veterinary science where skills in new reproductive technologies are assuming considerable importance; and biological areas such as wildlife conservation, pest control and preservation of endangered species.

Course objectives

Students who have completed the course will demonstrate a thorough understanding of relevant research techniques in their field through a review of the relevant literature. They will demonstrate their ability, under supervision to apply relevant research techniques to their chosen field of study. Students will be able to present high-quality written work suitable for publication in appropriate scholarly journals, and be able to critically evaluate both their own and others' written work in their chosen field. Students will also be able to: 1. identify and define research questions; 2. identify the appropriate research methods to address the research questions; 3. demonstrate mastery of their chosen research methodology/methodologies; 4. demonstrate theoretical knowledge at masters level in their chosen field of research; 5. communicate their research findings in a format appropriate to their academic discipline; 6. write up their research into a high quality thesis; and 7. contribute new information or new ways of understanding information in the field of research.

Course structure

Course requirements

This is a research degree which has a small coursework component. Students are required to undertake an in-depth original study and are required to submit a major thesis for examination. In addition, to provide a broad theoretical basis to their study, students must attend a series of coursework lectures covering a wide range of topics in reproductive biology such as physiology of human and animal reproduction, fertilisation and its manipulation, regulation of fertility, diagnosis and treatment of infertility, ethics, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and parturition, pregnancy disorders and neonates.

Units

  • MRS0001 Coursework - core lecture
  • MRS0002 Coursework, semester 1, stream 1 - lectures
  • MRS0003 Coursework, semester 1, stream 2 - lectures
  • MRS0004 Coursework, semester 2, stream 1 - lectures
  • MRS0005 Coursework, semester 2, stream 2 - lectures

Assessment

Assessment is by written exams, literature reviews, practical reports, oral presentations and the thesis.

Contact details

Postgraduate course administrator: telephone +61 3 9594 7360; email eprd@med.monash.edu.au or visit http://www.monashinstitute.org/students-courses-home.html.

Course coordinator

Associate Professor Peter Temple-Smith