Toxicology is also known as the science of poisons. It is a spacious area of study, which inspects the adverse effects of the chemical on the physical and biological aspects of living organisms. It not only is concerned with the disastrous impacts of such toxic chemicals but it also explores the positive impact of these toxic elements that are used to cure diseases. This diverse area of study is usually combined with the study of pharmacology and medicine making its reach elaborate. Toxicology also contributes to the field of cancer research accounting for its significance and practical application in today's world.
Toxicology programs teach students how to investigate and understand the negative effects of chemicals on living organisms, to understand the effects of drugs and chemicals, and to understand the different ways in which toxicity can be treated. It is an interdisciplinary field that draws from other disciplines like Chemistry, Biology, Medicine, and Environmental Sciences.
Study Levels
Several colleges and universities at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels offer toxicology degrees. The discipline also has a high research focus enabling students to pursue doctorate degrees in Toxicology as well.
These study levels for students of Toxicology include:
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Chemistry (Toxicology and Analysis of Pollutants)
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Environmental Sciences with emphasis on Physical and Chemical Dynamics
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Forensic Science
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Toxicology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Pharmacology and Toxicology
Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Toxicology
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Toxicology and Environmental Health
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Drug Toxicology and Safety Pharmacology
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Forensic Toxicology
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Environmental Toxicology
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Pharmacology and Toxicology
PhD
Specialisations
Toxicology is a broad discipline that offers various areas of specialisation for students to choose from, these include:
Forensic Toxicology
Toxicology and Environmental Health
Environmental Toxicology
Pollution Monitoring
Drug Toxicology
Toxicology Physiology
Food safety and Toxicology
Molecular Toxicology
Eco toxicology
Toxicology and Cancer Biology
Clinical Toxicology
Descriptive Toxicology
Regulatory Toxicology
Genetic Toxicology
Toxicology- Plant Pathology
Teratology
Employability
Because of the global relevance of Toxicology as a subject area, the extent of employment-generating opportunities in this field is colossal. Diverse areas of specialisation under this subject also widen up the scope of its practical applications and significance as an area of interest. This allows students to engage in multiple employment opportunities. Chemistry graduates, as well as postgraduates, in addition to clinical experts in the field of Toxicology, help in contributing towards the field of cancer studies. This in turn broadens the field of its practical application.
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- There are various roles and opportunities for graduates with a degree in Toxicology. These students can take up job positions such as:
Toxicologist
Research Associate
Laboratory Technician
Medical Affairs Associate
Sales Representative
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- Drug Safety Associate
Pharmaceutical Marketer
Clinical Scientist
Risk Assessor
Drug Information Specialist
Medical / Scientific Writer
Regulatory Compliance Officer
Drug Developer