Course Details

West African College of Clinical Physiology Sciences (WACCPS)

Duration: 12 Months

Target Audience: Graduates of Human Physiology and recognized health related disciplines

1. Programme Overview

1.1. Programme Title:

Professional Certification in Clinical Reproductive Physiology

1.2. Programme Objectives:

• To provide advanced training in human reproductive physiology and pathophysiology
• To develop expertise in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and fertility diagnostics
• To enhance clinical monitoring of infertility and reproductive disorders
• To promote research in reproductive health and endocrinology

1.3 Expected Learning Outcomes:

Graduates will be able to:

• Perform and interpret fertility diagnostic tests (semen analysis, hormonal assays, ovulation tracking)
• Assist in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedures
• Monitor cases of male and female infertility
• Conduct research in reproductive physiology and ART

2. Programme Structure

8 months of coursework + 4 months of clinical practicum/research

2.1 Core Modules

Module 1: Reproductive Physiology & Endocrinology (2 Months)

• Male and female reproductive anatomy and physiology
• Hormonal regulation of the reproductive axis
• Menstrual cycle dynamics and ovulation
• Pathophysiology of infertility (PCOS, endometriosis, azoospermia)

Module 2: Fertility Diagnostics & Laboratory Techniques (3 Months)

• Semen Analysis & Sperm Function Tests
• WHO standards for semen analysis
• Sperm DNA fragmentation testing
• Hormonal Profiling & Ovarian Reserve Testing
• FSH, AMH, LH, and progesterone assays
• Transvaginal ultrasound for follicular tracking
• Advanced Imaging in Reproductive Health
• Hysterosalpingography (HSG)
• Pelvic ultrasound for uterine abnormalities

Module 3: Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) (3 Months)

• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) & Embryology Basics
• Oocyte retrieval, sperm preparation, and embryo culture
• Cryopreservation techniques (vitrification)
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) Procedures
• Semen processing and timing of insemination
• Ethical & Legal Aspects of ART
• Consent, documentation, and regulatory compliance

Module 4: Clinical Practicum & Research (4 Months)

• Hands-on training in fertility clinics and ART labs
• Research project on reproductive health trends in West Africa
• Oral defense

3. Teaching Methodology

• Didactic Lectures
• Hands-on Laboratory Training
• Clinical Rotations
• Research Supervision

4. Assessment Methods

• Written Examinations
• Practical Competency Evaluations
• Semen analysis accuracy
• Hormonal assay interpretation
• IVF lab techniques
• Research Dissertation

5. Unique Programme Features

1. Tropical Reproductive Health Focus:

• Impact of infectious diseases (e.g., PID from STIs) on fertility
• Cultural and socioeconomic factors in fertility treatment

2. Low-Cost ART Adaptations: Simplified IVF protocols for resource-limited settings

6. Career Pathways

Graduates can work as:

• Fertility Laboratory Specialists/ Embryologists in hospitals and IVF clinics
• Reproductive Diagnostic Lab Scientists
• Andrology & Embryology Technologists
• Researchers in Reproductive Medicine

7. Accreditation & Certification

Aligned with: International Education Accreditation Council (IEAC)

This curriculum addresses West Africa’s growing need for trained reproductive physiologists, combining global ART standards with region-specific fertility challenges.

Approved by: West African College of Clinical Physiology Sciences (WACCPS)

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