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Top 11 Toxicologist Certifications

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Updated 19 min read

Certifications are important for a toxicologist in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual is knowledgeable and proficient in their field. They also show that the individual has taken the time and effort to learn about the latest developments, techniques, and safety protocols in toxicology. Certifications can help a toxicologist stand out from other applicants and increase their chances of being hired for a job. Additionally, certifications can open up new opportunities for advancement within an organization.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Toxicologists and explain how they can help advance a toxicologist's career.

What are Toxicologist Certifications?

Toxicologist certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual's expertise in the field of toxicology. Toxicologists are professionals who specialize in the study of the effects of chemicals and other substances on living organisms. With this certification, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the area of toxicology, which can be beneficial for their career development.

The certification is awarded by professional organizations such as the American Board of Toxicology (ABT) or The Academy of Applied Environmental Studies (AAES). To become certified, an individual must have a minimum amount of experience and education in toxicology and pass a comprehensive exam. This examination covers topics such as toxicological principles, risk assessment, environmental fate and transport, human health risk assessment, epidemiology, biomonitoring, and regulatory compliance. After passing the exam, individuals receive a certificate that serves as proof of their qualifications as a certified toxicologist.

Having this certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the field or when they are looking to advance their careers within the field. It can also give individuals more credibility with employers and clients who may be looking to hire someone with expertise in toxicology. Additionally, it provides access to continuing education courses related to toxicology that can help keep an individual up-to-date on new developments in the field.

Pro Tip: When considering toxicologist certification, make sure to check the credentials of the certifying organization. Make sure they have a solid reputation and that their certification is recognized by employers in your field. Additionally, research any additional requirements for maintaining your certification.

Related: What does a Toxicologist do?

Top 11 Toxicologist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Toxicologists today.

1. American Board of Toxicology (ABT)

The American Board of Toxicology (ABT) is a professional organization that provides certification in the field of toxicology. It is an independent, non-profit organization whose mission is to promote excellence in the practice of toxicology by certifying individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary for competent practice.

It takes approximately two years to complete the ABT certification process. This process includes completing an application, submitting transcripts and letters of recommendation, taking a written exam, and completing a practical exam. The cost for this certification varies depending on the individual’s experience level and other factors. Generally, it costs between $1,000 and $2,500 to become certified by the ABT.

In order to become certified by the ABT, applicants must first submit an online application which includes providing information about their educational background, work experience, and other relevant information. Once this application has been reviewed and accepted by the ABT board members, applicants will be asked to submit official transcripts from all schools attended as well as three letters of recommendation from qualified professionals in the field of toxicology or related fields.

Applicants must then take a written examination which covers topics such as principles of toxicology, exposure assessment methods, risk assessment techniques, hazard identification strategies and more. Once they have successfully passed this exam they will be required to take a practical exam which tests their ability to apply their knowledge in real world situations.

Finally, after successful completion of both exams applicants will receive their certification from the ABT board members. This certification is valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

2. American College of Toxicology (ACT)

American College of Toxicology (ACT) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the science and practice of toxicology. The ACT provides educational and professional development opportunities for its members, including certification in the field of toxicology.

The ACT offers several levels of certification: Certified Toxicologist (CT), Fellow of the American College of Toxicology (FACT), and Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology (DABT). To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of three years’ experience in toxicology, a degree in a related field, and pass an exam administered by the college.

The process to become certified typically takes six months or more. Applicants must first submit an application to the ACT, which includes their resume and transcripts. Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete an online course that covers topics such as principles of toxicology, risk assessment, and regulatory affairs. Upon successful completion of the coursework, applicants are eligible to take the certification exam.

The cost for certification varies depending on which level you are seeking. The cost for CT certification is $400 USD; FACT certification is $500 USD; and DABT certification is $600 USD.

3. American Society of Toxicology (AST)

American Society of Toxicology (AST) is a professional organization that provides education and resources to toxicologists and related professionals. AST was founded in 1961 and is the largest professional organization dedicated to the study of toxicology. The Society’s mission is to advance the science of toxicology by promoting research, education, and public awareness.

To become a member of AST, you must first meet certain criteria. These include having an advanced degree in toxicology or a related field, at least five years of experience in the field, and a commitment to advancing the science of toxicology through research, education, or public service. Once you have met these criteria, you can submit your application for membership online on the AST website.

The cost of membership varies depending on your type of membership (regular or student). Regular members pay an annual fee ranging from $90-$190 USD depending on their country of residence; student members pay an annual fee ranging from $20-$50 USD depending on their country of residence. It typically takes around 2-4 weeks for applications to be processed and approved.

Once your application has been approved, you will receive access to AST’s wide range of benefits including discounts on publications and conferences, access to career resources such as job postings and mentoring programs, networking opportunities with other members through virtual events and webinars, and more.

4. International Union of Toxicologists (IUTOX)

The International Union of Toxicologists (IUTOX) is an international scientific organization dedicated to promoting the advancement of toxicology and its application in protecting human health and the environment. IUTOX was founded in 1971 and has since grown to include more than 3,000 members from over 90 countries. IUTOX works to promote collaboration between toxicologists, facilitate communication among its members, and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and information related to toxicology.

Membership in IUTOX is open to any individual with an interest in toxicology or related fields. To become a member, individuals must submit an online application form along with payment of annual dues. The current cost for membership is €50 per year. After submitting the application form and paying the dues, it typically takes up to two weeks for membership approval.

Once approved as a member, individuals gain access to IUTOX’s many resources including publications, conferences, training courses, workshops, webinars and other events. Members also have access to a variety of networking opportunities through IUTOX’s online communities and discussion forums.

Overall, membership in IUTOX provides individuals with valuable opportunities for professional development and networking within the field of toxicology.

5. National Registry of Certified Chemists (NRCC)

The National Registry of Certified Chemists (NRCC) is a voluntary certification program for chemists in the United States. It was established by the American Chemical Society (ACS) to recognize and promote professional excellence in the field of chemistry. The NRCC certification is a mark of distinction that demonstrates a chemist’s commitment to professionalism, competence, and ethical practice.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the NRCC certification process. To become certified, applicants must first meet certain educational and experience requirements. They must then pass an online examination administered by the ACS. Once they have passed the exam, they must submit an application packet that includes a resume, references, and other supporting materials.

The cost of becoming NRCC certified varies depending on several factors such as whether or not you are an ACS member, how many years of experience you have in the field, and which level of certification you are seeking (Professional or Senior). Generally speaking, it will cost between $200-$500 to become NRCC certified.

Once certified, chemists can use their credentials to demonstrate their expertise and gain recognition from employers and peers alike. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire chemists who are NRCC-certified because it shows that they have met rigorous standards for professional practice and ethical conduct.

6. European Registration of Toxicologists (ERT)

The European Registration of Toxicologists (ERT) is a professional certification program offered by the European Society of Toxicology (EST). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of toxicology. The ERT is a voluntary registration system that provides an internationally accepted standard for assessing the qualifications, experience and competence of toxicologists.

ERT certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and experience in the field of toxicology. To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of five years’ experience in toxicological research or practice and must pass a written examination administered by the EST. The exam covers topics such as general principles of toxicology, risk assessment, chemical safety assessment, environmental health assessment, and regulatory affairs.

The application process typically takes several months to complete. Applicants must submit their application form along with supporting documents such as educational transcripts and proof of work experience. Once all documents are received and reviewed by the EST board, applicants will be notified if they have been accepted into the program.

The cost for ERT certification varies depending on where you live but generally ranges from €200-€400 for EST members and €400-€800 for non-members. Additional fees may apply if you need to retake any part of the exam or if you need additional training materials or resources to prepare for the exam.

7. Canadian Society of Toxicology (CST)

The Canadian Society of Toxicology (CST) is a professional association that was established in 1974 to promote the science of toxicology and its application in Canada. The CST is dedicated to advancing the science of toxicology, protecting public health, and promoting the responsible use of chemicals.

To become a member of the CST, you must submit an application form along with your CV and supporting documents. Once your application has been reviewed and accepted by the CST Board of Directors, you will be invited to join as a full member.

It usually takes up to 4 weeks for your application to be processed. Once accepted, membership fees are based on your profession and start at $100 CAD per year for individual memberships. Student memberships are available at discounted rates.

In addition to membership fees, there may be additional costs associated with attending conferences or workshops hosted by the CST.

8. International Academy of Toxicological Sciences (IATS)

The International Academy of Toxicological Sciences (IATS) is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of toxicology and related sciences. It was founded in 2005 by a group of leading toxicologists from around the world. The IATS provides a platform for collaboration and exchange of information among toxicologists and other scientists from different countries.

The IATS offers a two-year membership program that includes access to its online library, seminars, webinars, and other resources. Members also receive discounts on conferences and publications. To become a member of the IATS, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as academic transcripts or professional experience certificates.

The cost of membership varies depending on the type of membership chosen. The basic membership fee is $125 per year for individuals, while corporate memberships are available at $500 per year. There are also additional fees for attending conferences or purchasing publications.

9. Royal Society of Chemistry Diploma in Applied Environmental and Regulatory Toxicology (DARRT)

The Royal Society of Chemistry Diploma in Applied Environmental and Regulatory Toxicology (DARRT) is an advanced professional qualification that provides individuals with the skills, knowledge and experience required to work in the field of environmental and regulatory toxicology. It is designed for those who wish to pursue a career in this field, or who are already working in it but would like to develop their expertise further.

The diploma is awarded upon successful completion of a series of modules, which are assessed through coursework and examinations. The modules cover topics such as toxicological principles, risk assessment, environmental chemistry, legal aspects of toxicology, industrial hygiene and occupational health.

The diploma takes approximately two years to complete. To get the diploma you must first register with the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). You then need to select your modules from the list provided by RSC and complete them within two years. After completing all the modules you will need to submit a portfolio demonstrating your understanding of the material covered in each module. You will then be assessed by an RSC panel before being awarded the diploma.

The cost of obtaining a DARRT varies depending on which modules you choose to take and how many credits you require for completion. Generally speaking, it costs around £4,000-£5,000 for all courses required for completion of the diploma.

10. Institute for Environmental Health Sciences Certification in Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Health and Safety

The Institute for Environmental Health Sciences (IEHS) Certification in Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Health and Safety is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who work in the field of industrial hygiene and occupational health and safety. The certification program is administered by the IEHS, an independent non-profit organization that promotes environmental health sciences education and research.

The certification process includes passing a written examination that covers topics such as industrial hygiene principles, hazardous materials management, hazard communication, personal protective equipment, ventilation systems, ergonomics, and other related topics. Candidates must also have at least four years of experience in the field or have completed a bachelor's degree in industrial hygiene or a related field.

The certification is valid for five years from the date of completion. To maintain certification status after five years, individuals must complete continuing education credits every three years.

To obtain the IEHS Certification in Industrial Hygiene and Occupational Health and Safety, candidates must first submit an application to take the exam along with supporting documentation such as proof of experience or degree. After submitting the application, candidates will be sent an exam registration form which they must complete before taking the exam. The cost of taking the exam is $200 USD.

Once all requirements are met and passed successfully, candidates will receive their certificate from IEHS within two weeks of completion of the exam.

11. American Board for Occupational Health and Safety Technicians Certification

The American Board for Occupational Health and Safety Technicians Certification (ABOHSCT) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate knowledge and skills related to the field of occupational health and safety. This certification is designed to provide employers with assurance that certified technicians have the necessary qualifications and expertise to perform their job duties in an effective manner.

The ABOHSCT certification process generally takes between 3-6 months, depending on the individual's experience level. To become certified, individuals must first complete an approved training program or equivalent coursework. Next, they must pass a written exam administered by the American Board for Occupational Health and Safety Technicians. Finally, applicants must submit an application for certification along with any required fees.

The cost of the ABOHSCT certification varies depending on the applicant's experience level. The initial fee for new applicants is $250, while those who have prior experience in the field may be eligible for discounted rates. Additionally, there are additional fees associated with renewing or transferring certifications every three years.

Do You Really Need a Toxicologist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the type of job you are seeking. Generally speaking, if you are looking for a job in the field of toxicology, then yes, you likely need a toxicologist certificate in order to be considered for any positions.

A toxicologist certificate is an official document that certifies that you have achieved a certain level of proficiency and knowledge in the field of toxicology. This certification is usually obtained through completing an accredited course or program in toxicology and passing an exam. The certification demonstrates that the holder has the necessary skills and expertise to work in this specialized field. It also serves as proof that they understand how hazardous substances can affect human health and how to properly handle them.

The need for a toxicologist certificate will vary depending on the type of job you are applying for. If you are looking to work as a laboratory technician or consultant, it is likely not necessary. However, if you are seeking employment as a research scientist or toxicologist, then it is highly recommended that you obtain one. In some cases, employers may even require it as part of their hiring process.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a toxicologist certificate depends on what type of job you are applying for and what qualifications the employer requires. If your goal is to work in the field of toxicology, then obtaining this certification is essential in order to stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your expertise in this area.

Related: Toxicologist Resume Examples

FAQs About Toxicologist Certifications

1. What is a Toxicologist Certification?

Answer: Toxicologist certification is a professional certification program for toxicologists and related professionals, such as environmental scientists and chemists, that involves the completion of coursework, examinations, and other requirements in order to demonstrate expertise in the field of toxicology.

2. How do I become certified as a Toxicologist?

Answer: To become certified as a toxicologist, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an examination administered by an accredited organization, and adhere to a code of ethics.

3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Toxicologist?

Answer: Becoming certified as a toxicologist can provide multiple benefits including increased job opportunities and higher salaries, greater credibility among peers and employers, access to continuing education courses and resources, recognition for your accomplishments in the field of toxicology, and improved networking opportunities with other professionals.

4. How much does it cost to become certified as a Toxicologist?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified as a toxicologist will vary depending on the particular organization offering certification programs; however, most programs require payment for application fees, examination fees, membership dues or fees associated with continuing education courses or resources.

5. How long does it take to become certified as a Toxicologist?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a toxicologist will depend on the particular organization's requirements; however, most organizations require applicants to complete educational courses or training programs prior to taking the certification exam. Additionally, some organizations may have additional requirements such as professional experience or continuing education credits that must be completed before applying for certification.

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Brenna Goyette

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Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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