Master of Reproductive Sciences

Course Directors:

Associate Professor Peter Temple-Smith, Monash Institute for Medical Research, Monash University and Associate Professor David Robertson, Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Australia.

Course Aims & Objectives

Aims

The main aim of the Master of Reproductive Sciences is to provide advanced theoretical understanding and research training in the applications of reproductive biology to clinical human and veterinary medicine. The course provides an opportunity for professionals in various fields within and outside the reproductive sciences, such as tertiary institutions, industry and government departments, to refresh their knowledge and gain a new perspective and understanding on changing issues in reproduction in the light of current research advances.

Objectives:

At the completion of the Master of Reproductive Sciences, students will be able to:

• communicate an advanced theoretical knowledge and understanding
  of human and animal reproductive sciences;
• demonstrate advanced research skills in an area of specific interest
  in the human medical and veterinary reproductive sciences;
• critically evaluate recent developments in clinical human and animal
  reproductive sciences;
• display a detailed understanding of the ethical issues and social
  implications of research in the reproductive sciences.

Entrance Requirements

The Master of Reproductive Sciences is available to graduates in biological, medical, paramedical, agricultural and veterinary science, from approved tertiary institutions, with one or more of the following minimum
qualifications:

• An Honours degree (upper second class - Division IIA or equivalent);
• A pass degree with at least two years of appropriate research
  experience in their particular field. The level of research experience
  will be determined as appropriate by the Director in association with the Executive Officer of the program;
• A Graduate Diploma in Reproductive Sciences with an average grade of 70% or above in the course (students must pass all subjects in the course); or
• Qualifications and experience which are assessed as equivalent and suitable preparation for the student's proposed field of study

Course Structure

The course structure consists of five course-work subjects followed a
research project (Thesis). The research project is an original study of
reproductive biology culminating in a written thesis.

Coursework Subject List

Semester I

MRS001 Reproductive Endocrinology
MRS002 Ovarian and Testicular Development
MRS003 Pregnancy (the latter two subjects are run concurrently)

Semester II

MRS004 Reproductive Health Issues
MRS005 Control of Fertility (these subjects are run concurrently)

Research Component Begins

Expected Vocational Outcome

The knowledge and skills developed from the Master of Reproductive
Sciences course provides suitable training for a number of fields, including:

• research and development projects concerning reproduction;
• IVF facilities;
• medical and paramedical fields;
• industry, government and semi-government agencies concerned with development and implementation of policy on reproductive and population issues;
• developing areas of agriculture and veterinary science where skills in new reproductive technology, such as in vitro fertilisation, embryo manipulation and transfer transgenics and genetic factors controlling embryonic development, are assuming considerable importance; and
• biological areas such as wildlife conservation, pest control and the preservation of endangered species.

Length of Course

This course is a two year full-time course.

Assessment

Assessment is by journal review presentations, essays, examinations and
by the research thesis.

Venue

The course is based at the Monash Institute of Reproduction and Development, Prince Henry’s Institute of Medical Research and participating Monash University departments at Monash Medical Centre and Clayton Campus.

Cost

Contact Course Manager (see below)

Further Information

The Course Manager
Education Program in Reproduction and Development
C/-- Monash Institute of Medical Research
27--31 Wright Street
Clayton, Victoria 3168 Australia
Tel. +61 3 95947360 Fax. +61 3 959473114
Email: eprd@med.monash.edu.au
Web Site: www.monashinstitute.org/eprd/