The German toxicology curriculum: establishing a postgraduate training program for experts in toxicology

A postgraduate training program in toxicology has been established in Germany. Theoretical training in toxicology is offered on a modular basis to candidates aiming at certification as an "Expert in Toxicology, DGPT." The certificate is awarded by the German Society of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology [Deutsche Gesellschaft für Experimentelle und Klinische Pharmakologie und Toxikologie (DGPT)]. The precondition for entering the training program is a university degree in medicine, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, or a related subject. To be eligible to take the final examination for Expert in Toxicology, DGPT candidates must have at least 5 years of full-time practical experience in toxicology. They must have gained comprehensive knowledge in at least 1 relevant field, broad knowledge in another 2 fields, and basic knowledge in all 15 relevant fields of toxicology. Candidates must submit at least three independent peer-reviewed papers or professional assessments in toxicology or pharmacology. The course program for providing theoretical training is a joint venture of the German toxicological institutions involved in education. More than a dozen courses, covering the spectrum of fields in toxicology, are held each year at toxicological institutes of universities and research centers throughout Germany specializing in the respective fields. The courses provide candidates with instruction from Germany's leading authorities at research facilities in various fields of toxicology. They provide the best possible education in the spectrum of toxicological subdisciplines.