Reproductive Clinical Science Programs
Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU is a pioneer in assisted reproductive technology. In 1981, the first baby conceived via in vitro fertilization was born thanks to the pioneering efforts of the Howard and Georgeanna Jones Institute. The Jones Institute became an international leader in clinical and scientific research and trained many prominent physicians and scientists. In 2021, the Jones Institute transitioned all patient care to its affiliated partner Shady Grove Fertility (SGF), a premier fertility center and home to 85,000 babies born. SGF Jones Institute operates in Norfolk, Virginia on Old Dominion University's Eastern Virginia Medical School Campus and continues to support student development with EVMS through this program.
SGF Jones Institute's pioneering research has led to a series of firsts, including:
- First IVF baby in the U.S.
- First intracytoplasmic sperm injection research
- First U.S.-based online MS program in embryology and andrology
- First online reproductive clinical science (Ph.D.) program in the world
Since 2003, this international distance-learning program has established a legacy of successful graduates around the globe through our Masters, PhD, and Graduate Certificate programs. Our graduate program aims to equip today's embryologists and andrologists with a foundation for lifelong learning to adapt to new technologies, understand the relevance and application of advances in cell biology and genetics, develop protocols and manage clinical labs to ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local IVF regulatory requirements, and apply best clinical practices in the ethical treatment of infertility.