Degree Program Ph.D. in Toxicology
The Ph.D. in toxicology program focuses on gaining in-depth knowledge of the effects of chemicals and other potentially harmful agents on the health of the environment, humans, and animals, and requires that students make a unique research contribution to the field. Students in this option are required to submit two or more first author publications in peer reviewed journals, successfully defend their work, and complete a dissertation.
Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences
The Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences is home to one of the largest environmental health programs in the nation, and the only one that incorporates radiological health into its core curriculum. Students and researchers in environmental health investigate how natural and built environments affect human and animal health and seek solutions to minimize negative health consequences of environmental and workplace exposures. Radiological health has a long tradition at CSU focused on the biological effects of radiation, including laboratory studies of the damaging effects of radiation, and clinical uses of radiation in diagnostic imaging and cancer therapy.
Program Highlights
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Research-driven curriculum
The 72-credit doctoral curriculum builds deep, interdisciplinary mastery across toxicology, biochemistry, pharmacology, environmental health, physiology and biology. Core coursework ensures strong foundational understanding, while electives and seminars foster advanced specialization.
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Publications and scholarly excellence
Students are expected to contribute to peer‑reviewed publications stemming from their dissertation work, demonstrating readiness to influence scientific discourse and careers.
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Defense and dissertation achievement
Complete your journey by successfully defending your dissertation before a committee of experts who are also your mentors throughout the program – an essential hallmark of doctoral competence and independent scientific leadership.
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Applied skill development
Gain advanced experimental design, data analysis, oral presentation, and written communication skills through seminars, research projects, and colloquia, all crafted to prepare you to operate at the forefront of toxicology.
Research Opportunities
Impactful research domains
Join immersive research projects across a broad spectrum of areas, such as environmental toxicology, systems toxicology, clinical toxicology, computational and risk‑assessment toxicology, advanced disease modeling, and therapeutic intervention for toxic exposure and disease.
Collaborative, cross-disciplinary mentorship
Work closely with faculty specialists in fields such as epidemiology, neurotoxicology, environmental health, public health, veterinary science, and policy. This collaborative, interdisciplinary team ensures your research is integrated across disciplines and grounded in real-world, socially relevant contexts.
Comprehensive laboratory resources
Access state-of-the-art lab spaces that support a range of research approaches, including in vitro and in vivo studies, molecular assays, instrumentation-based experiments and computational modeling – all designed to facilitate rigorous and high-quality doctoral research
Career Opportunities
Our program will help you succeed in professional school, or prepare you for a career in a wide variety of fields.
- Academic and research leadership: You’ll be well-positioned to pursue postdoctoral research and faculty roles in universities, research institutions, or dedicated toxicology centers.
- Regulatory, government, and policy roles: Serve as a regulatory toxicologist or policy expert evaluating chemical, environmental, or pharmaceutical safety, working with agencies such as the EPA, FDA, or international regulatory bodies.
- Industry and pharmaceutical careers: Lead or support preclinical safety programs, drug metabolism projects, or product development initiatives in pharmaceutical, biotech, or chemical industries.
- Environmental and public health science: Advance your career as an environmental health scientist, public health toxicologist, or epidemiological analyst assessing population-level exposures, public policy, or ecosystem health.
- Science communication and policy advising: Serve as a science policy fellow, communication specialist, or advisor translating complex findings into actionable policy, guidelines, or community outreach materials.
- Consulting and biotech innovation: Provide expert consulting on toxicological risk, environmental compliance, or product safety, or contribute to emerging biotech ventures focused on chemical safety solutions.
Application Information and Deadlines
Students must secure a research advisor prior to applying. Developing a specific dissertation topic is also recommended.
Interested applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be considered for this program.
To apply, complete the Online Graduate Application via the Graduate School.
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| April 1 | Priority Consideration Deadline (for Domestic Applicants) |
| May 1 | Fall Application Deadline (for International Applicants) |
| July 1 | Fall Application Deadline (for Domestic Applicants) |
| September 1 | Spring Application Deadline (for International Applicants) |
| November 1 | Spring Application Deadline (for Domestic Applicants) |
Contact Us
Have questions about the program, minimum requirements, application process, or tuition and financial aid? Fill out the contact form to get in touch with our program staff.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Visit the Office of Financial Aid to apply for financial aid opportunities like scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment, understand tuition, fees, and the billing process, establish residency, and find other financial aid resources.
Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins blends education and industry, hard work and outdoor recreation, tradition and progress. If you’re looking for a college experience with the perfect fusion of culture, opportunity and adventure, Fort Collins is where you’ll find it.
Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins provides extensive access to hundreds of miles of trails for biking and hiking, world-class fishing and rock climbing, and camping, all in an area with over 300 days of sun per year.