The broad scope of interests of pharmacology ranges from the study of intermolecular reactions of chemical constituents of cells with drugs, to the effects of drugs on entire populations within society. Pharmacologists generally pursue careers in basic research and teaching in academia or basic and applied research in industry or research institutes. Toxicologists study the adverse effects of chemicals on living systems. Of particular concern is understanding the basic molecular and cellular mechanisms by which environmental pollutants, industrial chemicals, and drugs produce tissue injury, cancer, reproductive failure, immunosuppression, and other diseases. The applied aspect of toxicology utilizes our understanding of toxicology to reduce the health risk from exposure to potentially toxic chemicals.
Toxicology is a growing science with many opportunities for basic and applied research.
Perfusion science incorporates the investigation of pharmacological, biomaterial, laboratory, and clinical aspects of extracorporeal circulation. This discipline will prepare students for professional practice in perfusion with a wide range of experiences including cardiovascular research, systems design and development, cardio-pulmonary bypass, and life support systems. This is a special tracking associated with the M.S. Pharmacology and Toxicology degree. Industrial hygiene is the applied science concerned with the anticipation, recognition, evaluation, and control of chemical and physical agents that can affect health status in occupational and environmental settings. An industrial hygiene concentration prepares students for professional practice in a wide range of private and public sector organizations.