Master of Science in Toxicology, Plan A

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Toxicology, Plan A, at Colorado State University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of toxicology principles, mechanisms, and pathology. Graduates are prepared for research careers in academia, industry, or government, as well as professional roles in environmental protection, risk assessment, and product safety evaluation. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in core toxicology courses and offers specialized electives to tailor students' studies.

Program Outline

Master of Science in Toxicology, Plan A - Colorado State University

Degree Overview:

The Master of Science in Toxicology, Plan A, is a program designed to prepare students for research careers in industry, government, and academia. Graduates are also well-suited for professional positions in environmental protection, risk assessment, or product safety evaluation in both the public and private sectors. This program provides a strong foundation for students seeking admission to doctoral programs in toxicology or related fields.

Outline:

The program requires a minimum of 30 credits and includes:

Core Courses:

• ERHS 502 Fundamentals of Toxicology (3 credits): This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of toxicology, covering topics such as dose-response relationships, mechanisms of toxicity, and risk assessment.
• ERHS 601 Metabolism and Disposition of Toxic Agents (3 credits): This course focuses on the metabolic pathways and processes involved in the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of toxic substances.
• ERHS 602 Toxicological Mechanisms (3 credits): This course explores the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which toxic agents exert their effects on biological systems.
• ERHS 603 Toxicological Pathology (3 credits): This course examines the pathological changes that occur in tissues and organs as a result of exposure to toxic substances.
• ERHS 693C Research Seminar: Toxicology (1 credit): This seminar provides students with the opportunity to present their research findings and engage in discussions with faculty and peers.

Toxicology Courses (9 credits):

Students must select at least 9 credits from the following courses:

• BMS 450 Pharmacology
• ERHS 446 Environmental Toxicology
• ERHS 448 Environmental Contaminants
• ERHS 504 Occupational and Environmental Toxicology
• ERHS 507A Toxicology Toolbox: Fundamentals
• ERHS 507B Toxicology Toolbox: Metabolism and Disposition
• ERHS 546 Environmental Exposure Assessment
• ERHS 547 Equipment and Instrumentation
• ERHS 549 Environmental Health Risk Assessment
• ERHS 565 Chemical and Biological Warfare Agents
• ERHS 566 Forensic Toxicology
• ERHS 567 Cell and Molecular Toxicology Techniques
• ERHS 568 Pharmaceutical and Regulatory Toxicology
• ERHS 569 Immunotoxicology
• ERHS 733 Environmental Carcinogenesis

Other Requirements:

• Electives (3-5 credits): Students can choose electives from a variety of related courses to further specialize their studies.
• Thesis (ERHS 699, 3-5 credits): Students are required to complete a thesis project under the guidance of a faculty advisor.

Note:

• Course selection is done in consultation with an advisor and graduate committee.
• No more than 6 credits of courses below the 500-level can be included in the program.

Careers:

The program prepares students for a variety of career paths, including:

• Research Scientist: In industry, government, or academia
• Environmental Protection Specialist: Assessing and mitigating environmental risks
• Risk Assessor: Evaluating the potential hazards of chemicals and other agents
• Product Safety Evaluator: Ensuring the safety of consumer products
• Toxicologist: Conducting research and providing expert advice on the effects of toxic substances

Other:

The program draws upon a variety of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physiology, cell and molecular biology, neuroscience, and pathology.