Clinical Embryology MSc at LJMU

Care Fertility has a reputation for innovation, professional collaboration and excellence in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). Liverpool John Moore’s University (LJMU) is ranked in the top 600 universities in the world with strong international links and reputation for research. In 2022, together we launched the UK’s first academic-industry Master’s programme in Clinical Embryology to help meet the high demand for specialised training in Clinical Embryology from science and medical graduates, in the UK and internationally.

As a joint venture, Care Fertility delivers academic and practical teaching on several modules of the postgraduate course, including supervision of students’ research projects. LJMU provides teaching in Liverpool, using the expertise of staff in the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences. Students are recruited from around the world and travel between Liverpool and Manchester. The Care Fertility staff who provide the teaching and practical mentorship, are professionals within the field of assisted reproductive technologies.
The course recently underwent Periodic Programme Review by an LJMU panel and an external assessor.

It passed all requirements and received highly commended (see below). All graduates to date are employed within our sector.

Commendations

The panel was invited to identify commendations (for example, the quality of documentation and staff involvement in the review process; processes or ways of working that make a positive contribution to the assurance of academic standards, the quality of the learning opportunities for students, the quality of resources, and the quality of the information produced about the programme(s).

- The programme should be highly commended for its direct relevance to the fertility industry, both in terms of clinical practice and research.

- The excellent student support and guidance from all staff at both delivery sites.

- The training laboratories at Care Fertility, offering opportunities for both real world and simulated clinical experiences.

Course highlights

Partnership Program

The Clinical Embryology MSc, jointly taught by LJMU and Care Fertility, is the only fully integrated UK master’s program in clinical embryology delivered in collaboration with fertility treatment providers.

Learn from the experts

Students benefit from learning directly from academic, research-active staff at LJMU and clinical embryology experts at Care Fertility. The course places a strong emphasis on practical experience and provides insight into current advancements in fertility research.

Career Preparation

The program equips students with a robust theoretical foundation and hands-on skills to prepare for a career in assisted reproduction. Teaching takes place in state-of-the-art facilities at both LJMU and Care Fertility, ensuring a top-tier learning environment.

Course modules

Assisted Reproduction Technologies (20 credits) Provides postgraduate level knowledge and understanding of fundamental concepts and issues involved in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), at both a scientific and clinical level.

Genetics (20 credits) Aims to develop a reflective understanding of the genetic basis of disease and its investigation.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (20 credits) Provides you with increasing understanding of infertility and assisted reproductive technologies (ART), with more emphasis on clinical aspects than in the ART I module. The module also has a focus on drug regiments and clinical management.

Advanced Laboratory Skills (20 credits) Provides an understanding of cell culture as a technological component of aspects of biological research and commercial exploitation.

Research Project (60 credits) Provides you with the opportunity to conduct independent, in-depth research in an assisted reproductive technologies topic.

Testimonials

"The Care Fertility Masters course was my launchpad into a career in Reproductive science! It wasn't just about theory; it opened doors. Completing the program gave me the opportunity to work in the administrative department, providing invaluable insight into patient treatment pathways. This experience was my 'foot in the door' to Care Fertility. It allowed me to demonstrate my commitment, which ultimately led to my dream role as a lab practitioner. This course doesn't just teach you; it gives you the platform to build your career. If you want to work in fertility, this is where you start."

Ruby Grannell

"Completing the Care Fertility masters course was a truly transformative experience! The comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training provided me with the exact skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field of reproductive science. I'm thrilled to say that thanks to this course, I've secured a fantastic position as a Lab Practitioner at Care Fertility Manchester. What's even more impressive is that nearly every student from our cohort last year has successfully transitioned into roles within the industry. This course not only equips you with expertise but also opens doors to incredible career opportunities. I highly recommend the Care Fertility masters course to anyone passionate about reproductive science and eager to make a real difference in patients' lives!"

Dominika Sadowska

Global prospects for graduates

The skills acquired in our Master’s programme are be transferrable within this global industry. In addition to global employment opportunities, students may apply for a training position in embryology and/or andrology, or for the UK’s Scientist Training Programme (STP). Alternatively, the course provides ideal preparation for undertaking a PhD or applying for a research position or alternative role in the field.

Where are our students now?

As the only MSc in clinical embryology that includes professional collaboration, the employment prospects after completing this course are excellent, as demonstrated by our student alumni. In the first two years of the course 20 students were registered and all graduated successfully, with 85 percent now working in the reproductive field. Impressively, 3 of our students were accepted onto the STP NHS training program in Clinical Embryology, in 2024, in a cohort of 8 places. In addition, 9 past students gained laboratory practitioner posts within IVF labs, 1 is working in an animal IVF laboratory and 1 in a sperm bank and a further 3 are working in administrative posts within IVF clinics.

Further Information

Course fees The course will cost £18,000 for full time per year and for international students it will be £30,000 per year.

Course assessment

Study hours

The 20 credit modules have on average 37 hours contact. Three modules will be delivered in semester 1, three modules in semester 2 and the 60-credit research project will be conducted from May to August. Generally, there are three contact days in semesters 1 and 2. The project will be conducted Monday to Friday for four months.

Teaching methods

Course content is delivered via a combination of lectures, practicals, workshops, seminars, tutorials, student-centred activities and independent research.

Applied learning

There may be the opportunity for some students to conduct their research project at Care Fertility, however this is dependent upon availability of places offered by industrial partners and competition at interview for places.

Equipment access

Laboratory equipment is provided for hands on training in gamete and embryo manipulation including ICSI, embryo biopsy and vitrification. Care Fertility has a dedicated, fully equipped training laboratory for student training and research projects.

Course duration The course begins in September and is for 1 year.

CLINICAL EMBRYOLOGY MSc