Program Overview

Medical Toxicology (PgCert)

Overview

The Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Toxicology is a 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: 1 year
• Mode: Part-time distance learning

Start Date

• 28 September 2026

Why Study This Course

This program is suitable for clinical pharmacologists in training, specialist registrars in other disciplines, those working in the pharmaceutical industry, those working in the National Poisons Information Services, pharmacists, nurses, and other life science graduates. It enables students to demonstrate their abilities in critical analysis, problem-solving, decision-making, finding and using evidence, and dealing with complex issues.

Admissions Criteria

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

1. Degree Certificate and Transcripts: A copy of the degree certificate and transcripts showing an undergraduate degree in any science subject or an equivalent international degree.
2. IELTS Certificate: A copy of the IELTS certificate with an overall score of 6.5 and 5.5 in all subskills, or evidence of an accepted equivalent.
3. Personal Statement: A personal statement evidencing commitment to a career using toxicology. Applicants without a degree in a relevant area may be considered based on relevant professional experience, with additional evidence such as signed and dated employer references.

Application Deadline and Selection Process

• Applications are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis and normally close at the end of August, but may close sooner if all places are filled.
• The selection process involves reviewing the application to ensure all entry requirements are met, after which an offer is made.

Course Structure

The Postgraduate Certificate consists of one stage, lasting one academic year, with three 20-credit modules totaling 60 credits at Level 7. The modules are:

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

Learning and Assessment

• Teaching Methods: The course uses home and practice-based learning techniques, managed and delivered via the internet through Cardiff University's e-learning platform, Learning Central.
• Assessment: In-course formative and summative assessment is delivered and submitted via Learning Central, with summative assessment for each module carried out by means of one written assignment and one set of objective test exercises.

Tuition Fees for 2026 Entry

• Home Status: £5,350 for Year one, with no deposit required.
• Overseas Status: £7,850 for Year one, with a £2,500 deposit.

Additional Costs

• Equipment: A reliable computer with high-speed internet access and appropriate software.
• Living Costs: Information on living costs in Cardiff is available.

Funding

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria, with more information available in the funding section.

Career Prospects

The program enhances career development and progression by demonstrating numerous academic skills, including critical analysis, problem-solving, and decision-making. It is suitable for various professionals, including clinical pharmacologists, specialist registrars, and those in the pharmaceutical industry, and can assist in taking on greater responsibilities or seeking management, research, scholarship, or leadership roles.