Heriot-Watt University

MSc MSc Toxicology

Heriot-Watt University

Course overview

The MSc Toxicology course at Heriot-Watt University is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the important role toxicologists play in making lives more sustainable, either by considering safety when designing new substances or by identifying safer alternatives.     

During this 1-year programme, students will learn about the fundamental principles of toxicology, the harmful effects that different substances have on human health and the environment, and how the safety and sustainability of substances are assessed and improved through design strategies. 

Heriot-Watt University's MSc Toxicology course will enable students to gain skills that prepare them to work as toxicologists in sectors such as academia, government, and industry, meeting the current growing global demand for trained toxicologists. The knowledge and practical skills gained through this master’s degree will make graduates highly sought after upon completion of the course. 

Entry requirements

Applicants need to write a personal statement. In this, they should explain why they want to study this course and give other important information about their studies. They also need to provide a reference from a teacher or someone they worked for. Students can also add their CVs to their applications to show their work experience.

Grade Requirements:

  • Applicants are expected to have a minimum of an honours degree at 2:2 or non-UK equivalent in a relevant subject such as biological sciences, biomedical sciences, biochemistry, pharmacology, chemistry or toxicology.

English Proficiency:

  • The minimum English language requirement for entry to this programme is IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with no score lower than 5.5.

Scholarships

  • Alumni Discount Scheme

    A 20% discount is applicable to postgraduate taught courses across all of our global campuses.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Coaching Scholarships Programme

    Varies – up to a 100% Tuition fee Reduction (dependent on experience and number of coaching hours across the year).

  • Heriot-Watt Actuarial Scholarship For Academic Excellence

    The Heriot-Watt Actuarial Scholarship For Academic Excellence awards the successful recipient(s) with a 20% reduction on their tuition fees.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Remission of Fees (Families of Staff)

    Please contact the provider.

  • Staff Scholarships

    Please contact the provider

  • The Brodie Family Scholarship (PGT)

    The Brodie Family Scholarship provides financial support of £2,500 per year (or £2,000 per year for students enrolled in a five-year programme) to four undergraduate students.

  • The Island Scholarship Programme - Orkney Campus (UK) (International)

  • The New Dawn Energy Scholarship

    The New Dawn Energy Scholarship provides £1900 towards living costs to two students enrolling on our MSc in Petroleum Engineering in September 2026.

    Up to £1,900

Career opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Toxicology from Heriot-Watt University can pursue various roles, including:

  • Toxicologist
  • Drug Safety Specialist 
  • Regulatory Affairs Officer
  • Food Safety Scientist
  • Risk Assessor 
  • Policy Advisor 

Cost of study

The tuition fee (2025/2026 session) to study the MSc  Toxicology at Heriot-Watt University is £28,056.

Admission

To apply for the course at Heriot-Watt University, international students should apply through UCAS. For personalised help with your application, please speak to one of our trained counsellors.

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