Master's Programme in Biology – Environmental Toxicology

The Master's Programme in Biology, specialising in Environmental Toxicology, starts with the course Toxicology (level D), which provides you with a solid introduction to toxicological principles and hands-on experience of different toxicological methods and concepts. This starting course also includes a general introduction to the Master's programme.

The next course, Ecotoxicology, deals with how the environment is affected by chemicals. Within this course, short projects focusing on current ecotoxicological problems will give you an idea about the job assignments of professional ecotoxicologists.

During the first period of the second semester, you are advised to take a course that deepens your molecular and physiological knowledge, e.g., molecular biology, developmental biology, neuroscience or immunology.

The final course of the second semester, Toxicology and Risk Assessment, deepens your knowledge in (molecular) toxicology and gives practical experience in human health risk assessment. This kind of competence is requested if you plan to work in authorities or the chemical and pharmaceutical industry.

In the second year, you can either take one or two courses, or take a research training course combined with a degree project of 30, 45 or 60 credits. This allows you to be well-prepared for an academic career or a career outside academia.

Courses within the programme

Courses within the programme are listed on the the Department webpage or found in the programme outline.

Biology instruction at Uppsala University is closely integrated with ongoing research. All teachers in the Master's Programme in Biology are active scientists in their respective field, providing you with an education that stays up-to-date with the latest advances in the field. The teachers on the program are open to discussion and we expect you to be active during lectures and laboratory sessions.

The courses offer a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical training in the form of laboratory work and field trips, as well as the ability to solve problems, think analytically and work scientifically. You will also gain the skills to solve problems, think analytically and work scientifically both individually and in groups.

Communication training is integrated into all courses of the programme - something that is increasingly in demand in the workplace. Exercises in oral and written presentation are a strongly integrated part of the teaching, as are exercises in discussions and debates.

The Master's Programme in Biology has a strong international character, and all courses are taught in English.

After your graduation, you can work as an environmental toxicologist either at a company or government authority. You may also continue with doctoral studies in toxicology or environmental toxicology.

The need for environmental toxicologists in private companies and public institutions in the EU has increased because of REACH, the EU chemical legislation. After graduation you will have the required knowledge and skills to tackle upcoming issues in this field.

You can find environmental toxicologists at public institutions, such as the Swedish Medical Product Agency, National Food Administration, Swedish Chemicals Agency, and Swedish Environmental Protection Agency. You may also find them within private companies in the sector of environmental protection, such as IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute, SWECO, Golder Associates.

Our precious graduates work at, for example:

• SWECO
• County Administrative Boards in Sweden
• the Swedish Chemicals Agency

Job titles include:

• environmental consultant
• environmental administrator
• environmental risk assessor, etc.

The specialisation in Environmental Toxicology also provides a solid basis for PhD studies in Sweden and internationally. Your most important merit in that aspect is your degree project. With a careful choice of the courses and topics for your degree project, you will graduate with solid theoretical knowledge regarding harmful substances as well as practical knowledge of the analytical and practical methods that you need in further studies.

As a biologist, you can also work as a teacher or science journalist.

Career support

During your time as a student, UU Careers offers support and guidance. You have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and events that will prepare you for your future career.