This vocational course, now in its fourth year, is aimed at those wishing to follow a career in toxicological analysis be it in clinical, forensic, pharmaceutical or environmental laboratories, where the skills and knowledge base needed are complementary and overlapping. The book, specifically written as the foundation of the course, has been very well received and has been adopted as core material in a number of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in other universities and colleges see:
http://eu.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0470319348.html

Educational Aims

• To attain an understanding of analytical toxicology as applied to (i) clinical and pharmaceutical medicine, (ii) drug analysis, (iii) the role of the laboratory in the diagnosis and treatment of poisoning, (iv) the value of post-mortem and other aspects of forensic toxicology, (v) the value of toxicological analyses in managing substance abuse, (vi) the interpretation of test results, and (vii) the management of analytical laboratories and services.
  
  
• To provide a theoretical basis for gaining competence in the practical aspects of analytical toxicology.
  
  
• To develop and demonstrate competence in the production of critical reviews and in research and development activities.
  

Entry requirements

• Proficiency in written and spoken English is a prerequisite in accordance with Queen Mary, University of London regulations.
  
  
• Applicants will normally possess a good honours degree in an appropriate science subject (such as chemistry, biochemistry, or pharmacy), or a medical, dental, or veterinary qualification, or an equivalent qualification. More details can be found on the Queen Mary, University of London website.
  
  
• References from two academic/scientific referees are required to support each application.
  
  
• All MSc registrants should provide details of (i) their experience since graduation if any, and (ii) if in employment, the range of analytical techniques available in their laboratory.
  
  
• If in employment, it is recommended that a written undertaking be obtained from the Head of Department to confirm that adequate time and facilities will be made available to the applicant to allow successful completion of the course.
  
  
• All students will be assigned an academic/pastoral care tutor from Queen Mary, University of London. A local supervisor may be appointed with the prior agreement of Queen Mary, University of London.

Professional recognition

• The MSc in Analytical Toxicology is accredited by the Association for Clinical Biochemistry (ACB) as a suitable component of a training programme for those seeking registration by the Health Professions Council (UK) as a Clinical Scientist (sub-specialty Analytical Toxicology) and employed in a post recognized for such training.

Programme Structure

• The PG Diploma consists of 8 modules (30 hours taught, 120 hours private study per module = 1200 total hours of study) to be taken over 18 months, which equates to a commitment of 15 hours per week. The taught component will be block-release (8 x 3 days).
  
  
• The MSc degree, consists of the 8 modules PLUS a practical project or research dissertation (600 hours of study), to be taken over 2 years part-time (or 1 year full-time). Successful completion of only Modules 1 to 8 leads to the award of the PG Diploma.

Assessment

• Modules 1 to 8 are assessed by multiple choice examinations sat and problem based course work assignments.
  
  
• For candidates wishing to proceed to the award of the MSc degree a minimum average mark of 50 % must be achieved across modules 1 to 8.
  
  
• Assessment of the project component is by (i) submission of a 15,000 word thesis and (ii) an oral presentation and examination by a panel of examiner. The thesis will contribute 85 % of the mark and a viva voce (15 % of mark). Accordingly the practical project accounts for 33 % of the overall course mark for the MSc.
  
  
• The PG Diploma/MSc in Analytical Toxicology is awarded without classification. At the discretion of the Board of Examiners a merit may be awarded to those students who have completed the examinations a minimum mark of 65% overall or a distinction to those with a minimum mark of 70 % overall.
  
  
• Application forms and further details can be obtained from:- Professor Atholl Johnston FRCPath Clinical Pharmacology, William Harvey Research Institute Barts and The London, Charterhouse Square, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK Fax: +44 – 20 – 7882 3408 Email: A.Johnston@qmul.ac.uk (Include “MSc Analytical Toxicology” in the subject of any email correspondence).

Application forms and further details can be obtained from:-

Professor Atholl Johnston FRCPath
Clinical Pharmacology
William Harvey Research Institute
Barts and The London
Charterhouse Square
Londonm EC1M 6BQ, UK

Fax: +44 – 20 – 7882 3408

Email: A.Johnston@qmul.ac.uk (Include “MSc Analytical
Toxicology” in the subject of any email correspondence).