Certificate in Toxicology and Industrial Hygiene [CS-TIH] Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of background do I have to have to apply for the CS-TIH?
Given that the coursework for the CS-TIH involves the biological and health sciences, backgrounds in biology, chemistry, nursing, biomedical and environmental sciences, and some fields in engineering are appropriate.
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Is there any pre-requisite coursework required for the CS-TIH?
Yes, we prefer that individuals applying for the CS-TIH have taken basic coursework in human physiology and organic chemistry or biochemistry.
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What if I’m interested in the CS-TIH but have not taken the pre-requisite coursework?
We suggest that you find a basic course[s] in the area[s] in which you are deficient and complete it [them] before you apply for the CS-TIH. You may be able to find these courses at a local community college. Please note that when we review an application, we review your transcripts as well as your work experience [both past and current]. If your work history includes extensive experience in the areas of health and safety, we may choose to waive the pre-requisite requirements.
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Is the CS-TIH the same as becoming a Diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology [DABT] or a Certified Industrial Hygienist [CIH]?
No. You shouldn’t mistake the CS-TIH for certification by the American Board of Toxicology or the American Board of Industrial Hygiene. They are not equivalent. However, we feel that your CS-TIH study will certainly contribute toward your goal of certification by these professional organizations. The topics covered in both the toxicology and industrial hygiene sections of the CS-TIH are pertinent to certification by the ABT or ABIH. For further details concerning the ABT and/or ABIH certifications, please contact these organizations directly [www.abtox.org; www.abih.org].
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What types of courses are offered through the CS-TIH?
We offer 2 course in toxicology [3 credits each] and 2 courses in industrial hygiene [3 credits each]. These courses are designed to impart the basic principles of these disciplines coupled with examples of practical and current applications.
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How long will it take me to complete the CS-TIH?
We currently offer registration for the CS-TIH twice a year [Fall and Spring terms]. Once registered, you can complete the four courses required for the CS-TIH within one year without interruption [1 course/quarter period].
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Will this Certificate possibly help me in the job market? Or will the lack of “hands-on” experience affect this?
We suggest that it truly depends upon the job(s) in which you may be interested. Needless to say if you are looking at opportunities in which you would be working only in a laboratory setting, our Certificate would contribute to your understanding of the principles behind some of the assays. However, laboratory assays/analyses are not a focal point of the Certificate study. These courses contribute to development of expertise particularly in any occupational setting where health and safety concerns are a part of the job. Industries where new product development is ongoing; or where products are manufactured and employees are at risk would fall into this category. These courses are also helpful to individuals employed in governmental agencies or businesses involved in the monitoring/regulation of human and environmental exposure to toxic substances.
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Has the success rate with this certificate been higher in those individuals who apply these credits to their masters or doctorate degrees? Or equal amongst those who just have a Certificate?
The CS-TIH is a young program [we have only been offering our Certificate program of study for the last two years] and we truly have not gathered substantial statistics on the individuals who have completed the program thus far. Our Certificate credits are indeed acceptable as graduate credits should individuals wish to continue their graduate study and we encourage them to do so.
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