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MSc Applied Toxicology

About the programme

The Modular Training Programme in Applied Toxicology at the University of Surrey is designed to provide in-post scientists with the opportunity to obtain advanced training and a higher qualification in toxicology. Participants include employees in government departments, contract laboratories and pharmaceutical, chemical and consumer product industries. This part-time modular training programme has been running in its present form since 1992 and is now the largest training programme of its type in Europe; it has participants from all over the world including the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Austria, Israel, Zimbabwe, South Africa, United States and New Zealand.

Industry, contract and government agencies throughout the world need experienced staff with expert knowledge in toxicology. In addition, there is an increasing requirement for formal qualifications and qualification revalidation in the health-related professions. Unfortunately, economic pressures and work commitments make difficult the long-term release of staff for training in toxicology. Thus, more than ever, there is a need for high quality training courses that facilitate training in all areas of toxicology as and when needed.

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Who is the programme for?

The participants in the Modular Training Programme are normally science, medical or veterinary graduates (or equivalent) either currently working in a toxicology environment or seeking to use a knowledge of toxicology in some area of their careers. The Modular Training Programme is ideal for research managers, regulatory affairs specialists, occupational and environmental health scientists and physicians, research scientists and anyone who needs to keep abreast of the developments in modern toxicology without having to enrol on a full-time training programme. Although formal qualifications are normally required for registration as an MSc candidate, no such requirements apply to participation in a training module.

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Programme Objectives

  • To provide a multi-disciplinary training in Applied Toxicology by bringing together expert lecturers, tutors and advisers from the University of Surrey, from elsewhere in the UK, and from overseas.
  • To enable participants to acquire a critical understanding of the issues in modern toxicology with a view to developing practical problem-solving skills.
  • To ensure that the standard of examining is maintained to a high level using appropriate quality control procedures that are consistent with the requirements of the University of Surrey regulations. Standards are carefully monitored by the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences and by external examiners appointed by the University.
  • To facilitate the accumulation of credits obtained in individual modules towards an MSc or Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Toxicology.
  • To provide a training programme that is sufficiently comprehensive and of an appropriate standard for those wishing to pursue professional examinations in toxicology such as those offered by the Royal College of Pathologists and the American Board of Toxicology.
  • To provide a learning environment in which participants have access to state-of-the-art knowledge in the form of books, papers, lecturers and expert advice in specific areas of toxicology.

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Programme Structure

This part-time programme is designed for those in full-time employment. It consists of eight compulsory modules and a number of optional modules. The compulsory modules are an obligatory component of the MSc/Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Toxicology. Four compulsory modules and four optional modules are offered each year. Each module is an intensive 5-day residential taught course, preceded by preparatory study (for which carefully-selected distance-learning material will be provided), followed by consolidation and assessment.

The Postgraduate Diploma will be awarded on satisfactory completion of the eight compulsory modules plus one optional module and a final integrative assessment in toxicology. The award of MSc in Applied Toxicology is based on the accumulation of credits obtained by taking prescribed modules to the equivalent of 12 months' full-time study. Candidates for the MSc are required to complete successfully all eight compulsory modules, one optional module, an integrative final assessment in toxicology, plus 3 additional optional modules of candidate's own choice or a laboratory/literature project and dissertation.

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Length of Study

The Modular Training Programme is based on a series of intensive 5-day residential courses. Each course is self-contained and is individually assessed. Teaching methods include lectures, discussion panels, tutorials, case studies, demonstrations and home assignments. All lectures are given by recognised experts in their field. Courses are also supported by comprehensive distance learning material. The language of instruction is English. In addition, modules on the programme are approved by the University for the accumulation of credits towards the MSc or Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Toxicology. The compulsory modules will be offered on a 2-year cycle.

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Programme Content

The Modular Training Programme in Applied Toxicology is accredited for Continuing Professional Development.

The programme comprises eight compulsory modules and a number of optional modules. Four compulsory modules are offered in alternate years, plus four optional modules.

Compulsory Modules:

  • Carcinogenicity and Mutagenicity
  • Reproductive Toxicology
  • Toxicokinetics and Metabolism
  • Principles of Toxicological Pathology
  • Principles of Experimental Toxicology and Risk Assessment
  • Target Organ Toxicology - Systems I: Liver, Kidney, Gastrointestinal Tract and Skin
  • Target Organ Toxicology - Systems II: CNS, PNS, Endocrine and Musculo-skeletal Systems
  • Target Organ Toxicology - Systems III: Cardiorespiratory and Haematopoietic Systems

Optional Modules can include:

  • Alternatives Methodologies to the Use of Animals in Toxicology
  • Bioinformatics and '-omics'
  • Biologics
  • Biomarkers
  • Dermal Toxicology
  • Design of in vivo Studies*
  • Ecotoxicology
  • Endocrine Disruptors
  • Experimental Inhalation Toxicology*
  • Food Chemical Safety Evaluation
  • Haematology and Clinical Biochemistry*
  • Immunotoxicology
  • Nanotoxicology
  • Occupational Toxicology (including REACH implementation and legislation)
  • Paediatric Toxicology
  • Pathology of the Endocrine System
  • Plant Protection Products and Plant Biotechnology
  • Safety Assessment of Pharmaceutical Agents
  • Safety Pharmacology in Pre-clinical Research and Development
  • Techniques in Safety Assessment

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Entrance Requirements

Applicants who wish to read for the MSc/Postgraduate Diploma will normally possess a minimum of a science degree in a relevant subject. In addition, applicants are expected to have at least one year's experience in a related area. Registration for the MSc/Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Toxicology also requires the submission of the names of two suitable scientific referees who are willing to support the application.

Application to register for a higher award will normally take place following the first or second module attended by a candidate. Retrospective registration is permitted provided not more than 4 modules have been completed.

There are no formal entrance requirements for course participants not wishing to register for the MSc/Postgraduate Diploma, although a scientific background to at least degree level is recommended.

Courses are limited to a maximum of 30 participants and early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. A reservation may be cancelled up to four weeks before a course without penalty. However, any cancellations after this deadline will incur charges of 75% of the total fees due. No refund will be provided in the case of cancellations in the week preceding the course.

Competence in both written and spoken English is a prerequisite.

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Accommodation

During semester, hotel or guest house accommodation is available in and around Guildford, while during the University vacations a limited number of en-suite rooms will be available on the campus.

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Programme Personnel

Programme Director: Professor Shirley Price
Programme Administrator: Mrs Linda Bennett

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Enquiries

For further information please contact Mrs Linda Bennett:

E: l.bennett@surrey.ac.uk

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Postgraduate Courses

Extra Information Page