BSc(Hons)in Human & Animal Toxicology ab initito

BSc (Hons) in Human & Animal Toxicology

AIT has offered undergraduate and postgraduate training in toxicology since the mid-1980s and is nationally and internationally regarded as a center of excellence in academic and practical toxicology training. Graduates from level 7, level 8 and level 9 toxicology programmes have gone on to obtain research degrees in universities and research institutes in Ireland and abroad.

While toxicology might be regarded as the science of poisons, it can be more fully described as the study of the negative effects of chemicals on living organisms. According to the American Society of Toxicology, approximately 100,000 chemicals are currently in use worldwide, with 500 new chemicals entering the marketplace annually.

Toxicologists work to develop safer chemical products, drugs and medicines. They determine risks for chemical exposure and develop treatments for such exposures. They play a major role in the food and drinks industry and are often involved in the growing area of forensics.

This four-year, ab initio honours degree programme provides an integrated, coordinated and comprehensive education in toxicology as a broad discipline. It will equip you to work in a wide range of sectors such as pharmachemical and healthcare companies, contract research and testing, chemical companies, government agencies, health services, to mention just a few. In third year you get to complete a substantial industry placement, which will be of considerable benefit when you graduate and are seeking full-time employment.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Leaving Certificate

Grade C3 in two higher-level subjects, Grade D3 in Mathematics at ordinary level, plus three subjects at Grade D3 at ordinary level. Subjects to include a language (English or Irish).

FETAC

FETAC applicants to this programme must hold the following award: Laboratory Techniques (CASLT). They are also required to have the module Mathematics (C20139) included in their award or alternatively have Leaving Certificate Mathematics. They must also possess distinctions in three modules.

Modules

Year 1

Learning to Learn, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics for Scientists, Information Technology for Scientists, Current Scientific Issues through Enquiry-Based Learning and Scientific Computing.

Year 2

Biochemistry, Genetics & Forensics, General & Applied Microbiology, Analytical Techniques, Organic Chemistry, Mathematics, Cell & Molecular Biology, Physical & Inorganic Chemistry and Probability & Statistics.

 Year 3

Biochemical & Forensic Toxicology, Ecotoxicology, Analytical & Forensic Toxicology, Toxicological Pathology, Genotoxicology, Quality Control & Experimental Design and Occupational Regulatory Affairs.

Year 4

Cell & Molecular Toxicology, Toxicity Testing Methods, Immunology, Biochemical Toxicology, Pharmacology, Research Methods and Research Project.

Progression

AIT’s qualifications in toxicology have acquired an excellent reputation nationally and internationally and cooperative projects have been established with many universities that facilitate the process of entrance to postgraduate courses. A taught Master of Science in Toxicology is offered by AIT. For further information on this programme and other postgraduate opportunities at AIT, see the postgraduate prospectus.

Professional Recognition

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this course should find employment in management, regulatory, technical and research positions in industry as well as state-supported posts in government laboratories and third-level institutions. 

Additional Information