Medical Toxicology (PgDip)

The Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Toxicology is a two-year part-time distance learning course designed for medical personnel, including doctors, pharmacists, and other scientists. The program aims to introduce students to the broad principles underlying medical toxicology and integrate an understanding of the mechanisms by which drugs and other chemicals produce toxic effects.

Duration and Mode

• Duration: 2 years
• Mode: Part-time distance learning

Course Options

• Part-time distance learning (2 years)
• Full-time distance learning (1 year)

Start Date

• 28 September 2026

Why Study This Course

This program is designed for those who wish to develop a broad understanding of the principles underlying medical toxicology. It is particularly suited for clinical pharmacologists in training, specialist trainees in accident and emergency medicine or acute medicine, and those intending to enter or already working in the pharmaceutical industry.

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for an offer, applicants must meet the following entry requirements:

1. A copy of the degree certificate and transcripts showing an undergraduate degree in any science subject or an equivalent international degree.
2. A copy of the IELTS certificate with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or evidence of an accepted equivalent.
3. A personal statement evidencing commitment to a career using toxicology.

Course Structure

The Postgraduate Diploma consists of six 20-credit modules studied part-time over two years. The course is divided into two stages: T1 (first taught stage) and T2 (second taught stage), each lasting one academic year.

Year One

• Diagnosis and Management in Poisoning (MET751, 20 credits)
• Poisoning by Commonly Used Pharmaceuticals (MET752, 20 credits)
• Poisoning by Non-Pharmaceuticals (MET753, 20 credits)

Year Two

• Mechanisms of Toxicity (MET754, 20 credits)
• Preventive and Regulatory Toxicology (MET755, 20 credits)
• Environmental and Industrial Toxicology (MET756, 20 credits)

Learning and Assessment

• The course is managed and delivered via the internet through Cardiff University's e-learning platform, Learning Central.
• The education process is problem-orientated, with fortnightly reading for each module and regular clinical exercises.
• Assessment includes written assignments and objective test exercises, with feedback provided through electronic and written means.

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry

Fees for Home Status

• Year one: £5,350
• Year two: £5,350

Fees for Overseas Status

• Year one: £7,850 (with a £2,500 deposit)
• Year two: £7,850

Financial Support

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. Postgraduate loans may also be applicable for those starting their master's degree in September 2026 or later.

Career Prospects

The course is suitable for a variety of professionals, including clinical pharmacologists, specialist registrars, pharmaceutical industry workers, and those seeking careers in government regulatory bodies or the pharmaceutical and chemical industries.

Additional Costs

• Reliable computer with high-speed internet access and appropriate software.
• Living costs, as the university is based in one of the UK's most affordable cities.

Cardiff University

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Overview:

Cardiff University is a leading research-intensive university located in the heart of Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. It is known for its strong academic reputation, diverse range of programs, and commitment to community engagement.

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Services Offered:

Study:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and international programs across various subject areas. They also provide support services for students, including funding, tuition fee information, and career guidance.

Research:

The university is renowned for its research excellence, with a focus on tackling major challenges facing society, the economy, and the environment. They offer various research facilities and support for researchers.

Work with us:

Cardiff University collaborates with businesses and organizations to provide consultancy services, funded opportunities, and workforce development programs.

Community:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering various projects, resources, and events to support learning, promote Welsh language and culture, and contribute to the green recovery.

Global:

Cardiff University has strong global partnerships with universities and organizations worldwide, fostering international research collaborations and student exchange programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Living in Cardiff:

Cardiff is a vibrant city with a thriving student population, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences, entertainment options, and social activities.

Welsh Language and Culture:

Students have opportunities to learn Welsh and experience the rich Welsh language culture, which is prevalent in Cardiff.

Campus Facilities:

The university provides excellent campus facilities, including libraries, sports facilities, and conference spaces.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Campus Facilities:

Cardiff University offers modern and well-equipped facilities to support student learning and research.

Excellent Career Prospects:

The university has a strong track record of producing graduates who are highly sought after by employers.

Vibrant Student Life:

Cardiff is a lively city with a thriving student community, offering a diverse range of social and cultural experiences.

Research Excellence:

Cardiff University is renowned for its research excellence, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research.

Community Engagement:

The university is deeply committed to its local communities, offering students opportunities to contribute to social and environmental initiatives.

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Academic Programs:

Undergraduate:

Cardiff University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across various subject areas, including Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Science, Engineering, and Medicine.

Postgraduate:

The university provides a diverse range of postgraduate programs, including taught courses and research degrees.

International:

Cardiff University welcomes international students and offers specific programs and support services tailored to their needs.

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Other:

Rankings:

Cardiff University consistently ranks highly in national and international rankings, reflecting its academic excellence.

Quality Marks:

The university holds various quality marks, including the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) diamond logo, demonstrating its commitment to quality assurance.

Russell Group:

Cardiff University is a member of the Russell Group, a prestigious group of 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK.