The new program, which is the first of its kind in Ohio, is an online master’s degree program that will prepare students to work in the forensic toxicology arm of forensic science.
The University of Toledo has launched an online master’s degree program in forensic toxicology, the first of its kind in the state of Ohio. The field of forensic toxicology is a branch of forensic science that combines science and law to aid in investigations through identifying toxic substances. The new program will admit its first students in the Fall 2026 semester.
According to an article on the University of Toledo’s website, Dr. Pam Heaton, who serves as the dean of the UToledo College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, was quoted as saying of the new program, “No other university in Ohio has a master’s program dedicated exclusively to forensic toxicology. And while a small number of programs exist across the country, none are built on the kind of deep toxicology and pharmacology foundation that we can offer.”
She added of the demand for such a program in the region, “In Ohio, the job market is expected to increase by 13.6 percent.” This is due to workplaces such as crime labs, medical examiners’ offices, public health agencies, and private forensic laboratories seeking individuals who have a master’s degree in forensic toxicology to fill open positions. Additionally, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has been investing in the state’s forensic science services, in part to enhance the state’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
The forensic toxicology program was approved by the university’s Board of Trustees in September 2025 and has recently also received all necessary state approvals.
Within the forensic toxicology master’s degree program, students will study molecular toxicology, forensic testing methods, the legal and regulatory landscape, and laboratory quality systems, with their studies culminating in a capstone research project to demonstrate their knowledge. The program has been designed to be completed in a part-time format, allowing for working students to fit their studies in around their other responsibilities. The program will take five semesters, resulting in 30 credit hours.
Additionally, undergraduate students have the opportunity to take a 4+1 course pathway that will allow them to earn a bachelor degree and a master’s degree in forensic toxicology in five years. There is also a nine-credit graduate certificate in forensic toxicology that will provide the option for students to continue their education at a later time.
For more information about the University of Toledo, visit the school’s website.