What major of Chemistry is dealing with toxic?

In summary, if you want to be a chemist and work in the environment, you will need to major in toxicology.
  • #1
php111
55
0
Hi,

There are plenty of different types of majors being a Chemist. To work for the Feds and be a Chemist and work on the fields cleaning up hazardous and toxic wastes, gas leaks and etc, what Chemistry major do I need to major in? Would it be Chemical Engineering? BioChem?
 
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  • #2
toxicology??
 
  • #3
php111 said:
Hi,

There are plenty of different types of majors being a Chemist. To work for the Feds and be a Chemist and work on the fields cleaning up hazardous and toxic wastes, gas leaks and etc, what Chemistry major do I need to major in? Would it be Chemical Engineering? BioChem?

as mysqlpress said, toxicology is the right thing, if we talk of chemistry alone. But, if you want to work at crime scenes and with the feds and stuff, you will have to take courses in forensic sciences. I don't know much abt this though...
 
  • #4
I believe it's BioChem, but you'll want to talk to people in the field you want to go into to get their opinions first.
 
  • #5
You can get into the field either by doing BS with Bio-Chem major and then forensic science or by doing physiology. There might be other ways of getting there...
 
  • #6
I would go for chemistry (engineering if provided), if you are planning on dealing with 'chemical catastrophes' with the environment.

If you are dealing with 'chemical catastrophes' with humans or living organisms, I would go for biochemistry, since the emphasis on chemistry is less accentuated than on the living organisms.

Don't know if that made sense though..
 
  • #7
Toxicology is typically a branch of medical science dealing with toxins in the blood stream or interacting with an organism, rather than an environment. If you're talking about hazardous wastes (especially RCRA regulated wastes), chemical engineering or environmental engineering are applicable.
 
  • #8
hmm..i had a friend whos relative is working in this field, he works like a doctor for crimes scene invistigating (sound good eh?), he told me as i can remember that he graduated from a major which is part from the school of medicine..
 

1. What is toxicology?

Toxicology is the study of the harmful effects of chemical, physical, or biological agents on living organisms. It involves understanding the mechanisms of toxicity, identifying toxic substances, and determining safe levels of exposure.

2. What is the difference between toxicology and environmental chemistry?

Toxicology focuses on the study of the adverse effects of chemicals on living organisms, while environmental chemistry focuses on the behavior and effects of chemicals in the environment. However, these two fields are closely related and often overlap in areas such as understanding the impact of pollutants on human health.

3. Which major of chemistry deals with toxic substances?

The major of chemistry that deals with toxic substances is known as "Toxicology and Environmental Chemistry" or "Toxicological Chemistry". This major combines principles from both toxicology and environmental chemistry to study the effects of toxic substances on living organisms and the environment.

4. What are some examples of toxic substances?

Toxic substances can include chemicals, heavy metals, pesticides, pollutants, and other harmful agents. Some common examples include lead, mercury, asbestos, carbon monoxide, and various pesticides and herbicides.

5. What career opportunities are available for graduates with a major in toxicology and environmental chemistry?

Graduates with a major in toxicology and environmental chemistry can pursue various career paths in industries such as pharmaceuticals, environmental consulting, government agencies, and research institutions. Some possible job titles include toxicologist, environmental chemist, risk assessor, and environmental health and safety specialist.

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