Clinical embryology students will be provided with the skillsets and specialized knowledge required to contribute to the success of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic or laboratory. Our core and concentration-specific courses are taught by program-dedicated instructors and faculty expert guest lecturers providing the most up-to-date information. Additionally, trainees will be immersed in the IVF laboratory of the Washington University Fertility & Reproductive Medicine Center from day one of the program, preparing them for a career as a clinical embryologist upon graduation.
Clinical Embryology (2-year program, expected Fall 2026)
- Enter the IVF laboratory on day 1.
- Receive extensive hands-on training in IVF laboratory techniques.
- Complete coursework focused on human reproductive physiology, pathology, methods, and IVF lab procedures and operations.
- Develop transferrable communication, professional, and research skills.
- Gain the hands-on skills & experience needed for ELS* certification.
- Exit the program ready to begin a career as a highly in-demand clinical embryologist.
*ELS – Embryology Laboratory Scientist certification offered by the American Association for Bioanalysts Board of Registry.
Required Coursework – Clinical Embryology Concentration
| Course | Credit | Term |
|---|---|---|
| Human Reproductive Physiology | 3 | Fall – 1st year |
| Current Tools in Reproductive Sciences I | 3 | Fall – 1st year |
| IVF Clinic Fundamentals | 3 | Fall – 1st year |
| Advanced Topics in Reproductive Sciences | 3 | Spring – 1st year |
| IVF Clinic Intermediate Studies | 4 | Spring – 1st year |
| Repro Sci Communications I | 1 | Spring – 1st year |
| Advanced Topics in ART | 2 | Summer – 1st year |
| Junior Embryology I | 4 | Summer – 1st year |
| Junior Embryology II | 4 | Fall – 2nd year |
| Introduction to Statistics for Clinical Research (CLNV 522) | 3 | Fall – 2nd year |
| Embryology Capstone I | 5 | Spring – 2nd year |
| Embryology Capstone II | 5 | Summer – 2nd year |
Additional Required Activities
| Course | Credit | Term |
|---|---|---|
| CRepHS Seminar Series | – | Fall & Spring |
| AAB Embryology Module – Online Course | – | Spring – 2nd year |