Have you ever wondered why prescription drugs have "side effects" along with the effect the drug is supposed to produce? Or why some plants and animals are poisonous? Or how exposure to air pollutants like sulfur and nitrogen oxides might affect people's health?

The answers to these and many other questions are found in an area of science called Toxicology. Toxicology is the science that studies the effects of toxicants (in other words, poisons) on living organisms.

Toxicologists conduct basic research on the effects of toxicants on human health and the environment, develop and perform tests to assess the safety of drugs and other chemical products, and assist government agencies in developing regulations and standards in areas ranging from food safety to pollution control.   Toxicologists also work in  applied areas such as clinical medicine, veterinary medicine,  pharmacy, and forensic science. 

The Ashland University undergraduate Toxicology program

Ashland University is among only a few institutions in the United States offering a Bachelor of Science degree in Toxicology. The four year Toxicology curriculum at Ashland provides students with a comprehensive background in biology and chemistry, along with specialized instruction in Toxicology. Toxicology coursework includes:

• PRINCIPLES OF TOXICOLOGY, a course which covers the basic principles of toxicology, focusing on the biochemical, physiological, and ecological effects of toxicants
• METHODS IN TOXICOLOGY, an in- depth study of various methods used in toxicological research. This course is designed to give students hands- on experience in applying various techniques to toxicological problems
• APPLIED TOXICOLOGY, which involves a practical approach to planning and conducting studies designed to conform to government regulations for toxicity testing
• PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY, a survey of the major categories of drugs and toxicants and their therapeutic and/or toxic effects on humans.
• FORENSIC SCIENCE, a course which provides students with insight into how the natural and physical sciences are utilized in the examination of materials to be submitted as evidence.

The connection with WIL Laboratories

Ashland University's Toxicology Program possesses several unique features which enhance the student's education and training. One of these is the close proximity of WIL Laboratories, a research facility in Ashland. Toxicologists from WIL participate in the teaching of courses, and internship and work opportunities are often available for toxicology students at WIL. These opportunities allow students to obtain valuable practical experience in a laboratory setting.

Environmental science

Ashland University also offers a major in Environmental Science. To earn this degree, students combine major requirements in either Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Toxicology, or another science along with a core of Environmental Science courses. Through this program, students who are interested in Environmental Toxicology can receive a Bachelor of Science degree with a double major in Toxicology and Environmental Science/Biology.

Careers in Toxicology

Ashland University's programs in Toxicology and Environmental Science provide an excellent background for many exciting and rewarding career pathways. Many students choose to continue their studies, entering graduate programs in toxicology, pharmacology, forensic science, environmental science, or other biological disciplines. Others use their Toxicology major to enter medical school, pharmacy school, or veterinary school.

After graduation from Ashland's Toxicology Program, individuals will also be qualified to work in both laboratory and administrative positions for a wide variety of employers. In industry, career opportunities are found in agricultural, chemical, cosmetic, food, insurance, pharmaceutical, and petroleum firms, as well as in contract testing laboratories. These firms need toxicologists to obtain data on safety of chemical products before they can be marketed, and to assess environmental impact of their operations. In government, toxicologists have the opportunity to contribute to development of regulations protecting human health and the environment. Agencies which participate in this process include the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and the Food and Drug Administration. Also, jobs are available at many of the major research universities that conduct basic research in toxicology. The Placement Office at Ashland University, working in conjunction with the Department of Biology, provides support in a student's job search.