The toxic effects may be disturbances in growth patterns, discomfort, disease or death of individual, or they may be disruptions of whole ecosystems. The exogenous chemicals may be drugs, compounds synthesized by man, or agents originating in nature.
Toxicologists work mainly in industry and governments, but also at universities.
The Program leads to the degree of Bachelor of Science. Not all of the students intending to become toxicologists have the ability or perseverance to complete the necessary studies. Those who have graduated with a B.Sc. degree will often find it necessary and helpful to continue studying, in the School of Graduate Studies, for a Master of Science degree or Doctorate before choosing a professional career. Almost without exception, the well-trained toxicologist holds an M.Sc. or Ph.D. degree with three to six years of additional formal university education. Financing such an extensive education is often a problem, but financial support can usually be obtained by qualified applicants through studentships, scholarships, or research grants.