BSc in Environmental Toxicology add-on

BSc in Environmental Toxicology

Environmental toxicology is a branch of toxicology that became established in the mid-1960s. In essence, environmental toxicology is the multi-disciplinary study of the effects and detection of toxic substances in the environment.

Environmental toxicology draws upon both basic and applied scientific knowledge to understand natural and anthropogenic (man-made) pollutants’ life cycle and their impact on structures and functions of biological and ecological systems. In this programme the effects of environmental toxins will be investigated at the level of molecules, cells, tissues, organs, organisms, populations, communities and ecosystems. The main questions posed by environmental toxicologists are: how pollutant causes harmful effects, how can we measure the extent of the effects, and what can we do to prevent or minimize the risk to biological and ecological systems.

As well as possessing specialist scientific knowledge, environmental toxicologists are required to have strong communication skills (written and oral), IT skills, time management skills and the ability to work as part of a team.  Graduates of this course will acquire an in depth understanding and appreciation of the complexities of  Environmental Toxicology while mastering competencies in the practical in-vivo and in-vitro assessment of toxicants.  

This unique one-year add-on level 7 degree programme provides an integrated, coordinated and comprehensive education in environmental toxicology. It will equip you to work in a wide range of sectors such as pharmachemical and healthcare companies, contract research and testing, chemical and manufacturing companies, government environmental and regulatory agencies, health services (among others).   In addition, the recent enactment of a European Union Directive called REACH which deals with the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances mandates the environmental toxicity assessment of chemicals which are in common use.   

Minimum Entry Requirements

Higher Certificate in Science or an equivalent Level 6 qualification.

Modules

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

Progression

As a graduate of this programme you are eligible to apply to join the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Human & Animal Toxicology or the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Applied Biosciences at AIT, or related Level 8 programmes at other third-level institutions.

Professional Recognition

Career Opportunities

The course provides suitable training to enable graduates to pursue a variety of career opportunities. These include employment in the food, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries; in research and development laboratories, in ensuring the safety of new products; and in regulatory agencies concerned with the monitoring and control of toxic agents. With the recent enactment of environmental legislation, several graduates of this course have obtained employment as environmental science technicians. 

Additional Information