Toxicologists

High School

Take courses in both the physical and biological sciences (chemistry and biology, for example), algebra and geometry, and physics. English and other courses that improve your written and verbal communication skills will also be useful, since toxicologists must write and report on complicated study results. Since toxicologists increasingly use advanced artificial intelligence (AI) in their work, it's a good to take classes in this field if they are available at your high school. You should also take general computer science and data science courses.

Postsecondary Training

Most toxicologists obtain their undergraduate degrees in a scientific field, such as pharmacology or chemistry. Course work should include mathematics (including mathematical modeling), biology, chemistry, statistics, biochemistry, pathology, anatomy, and research methods.

Career opportunities for graduates with bachelor's degrees are limited; the majority of toxicologists go on to obtain master's or doctorate degrees in toxicology. More than 76 percent of toxicologists hold doctorate degrees, according to the Society of Toxicology. Graduate programs vary depending on field of study, but they may include courses such as pathology, environmental toxicology, and molecular biology. Doctorate programs generally last four to five years.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer undergraduate and graduate certificate programs in toxicology, medical toxicology, clinical toxicology, and related areas, as well as in emerging technologies (such as AI) that are used in the field. Certificate programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

The Society of Toxicology offers continuing education classes at its annual conference. Past classes included Applications of Computational Systems Biology for Toxicology, Toxicity of Metals, and Current Trends in Genetic Toxicology Testing. It also offers career development webinars. The American College of Medical Toxicology also provides professional development opportunities.