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 written and verbal communication skills will also be useful, since toxicologists must write and report on complicated study results.

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.

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.” The American College of Medical Toxicology also provides professional development opportunities.