Adelaide

Forensic Toxicologist

Forensic Toxicologists are specialist scientists who source, analyse, and test biological samples (eg, blood, hair, body fluids, bone tissue, plants and insects) for traces of drugs and toxins to solve crimes. They usually work in the laboratory but may also be required to attend court, crime scenes, autopsies, and workplaces.

As a Forensic Toxicologist you could be processing a drug test on a driver who was involved in a fatal collision, assisting with a coronial post-mortem where the deceased may have overdosed, testing exhumed human remains for toxins in a cold-case investigation, conducting a drug test at a mine site after a dangerous incident, writing a report from your laboratory findings to submit to the state police department, appearing in court as an expert witness, or attending an international conference for Forensic Scientists.

Forensic Toxicologists create reports that are used in court as evidence to convict the perpetrators of murders and serious crimes, so attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy is essential to success.

Future demand Medium
Average yearly income $80,600
Skill level Unknown

How do I become a forensic toxicologist?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced

Master of Forensic Science
Online
18 months
$13,416
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Scientist Crime Scene Investigator
Forensic Chemist Forensic Engineer Forensic Psychologist
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Scientist Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Chemist Forensic Engineer Forensic Psychologist + 3 more

Graduate Diploma in Forensic Science
Online
12 months
$8,944
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Scientist Crime Scene Investigator
Forensic Analyst DNA Analyst Forensic Science Technician
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Scientist Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst DNA Analyst Forensic Science Technician + 3 more

Graduate Certificate in Forensic Science
Online
6 months
$4,472
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Toxicologist
Forensic Chemist Forensic Psychologist Forensic Science Technician
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Crime Scene Investigator Forensic Analyst Forensic Toxicologist Forensic Chemist Forensic Psychologist Forensic Science Technician + 3 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

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Common questions

How can I become a forensic toxicologist?

To become a forensic toxicologist in Adelaide, you may want to consider completing the Master of Forensic Science. This qualification will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in this industry.

Are there training providers in Adelaide?

You can train to become a forensic toxicologist by completing a qualification with Western Sydney University. Find a course provider near you. Once you make an enquiry, a course advisor will get in touch to discuss your study options and course fees.

What study modes are available?

There are several campuses within the Adelaide area that provide forensic toxicologist training. The closest campus is 1161km away from the center of Adelaide. You can also study a forensic toxicologist course through online learning. Find a course provider that best suits your study needs.

Further reading

All You Need to Know About Certificate III in Pathology Collection

10th February 2025

Your Guide to Laboratory Technician Training in Australia

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