UF offers forensic toxicology program

Gainesville, Fla.-The University of Florida (UF) is offering a"first-of-its-kind", distance learning program in forensic toxicology.

University officials say that while other institutions offer coursesin forensic toxicology (the study of poisons and toxins and their effects,particularly as they relate to legal matters or criminal investigations),UF's program meets a widely recognized need for basic and continuing education.

"The program will be taught as distance education through the Internet,so anyone anywhere in the world can participate without having to take timeoff work and move to Gainesville for two years," says Program DirectorIan Tebbett, a professor in the department of veterinary medicine's physiologicalsciences. Tebbett also directs the UF veterinary college's Racing Laboratory,which oversees drug testing of Florida's racing horses and Greyhounds forthe state's Division of Pari-mutuel Wagering.

Tebbett says those already working in the forensics field will refreshtheir knowledge and upgrade their qualifications. In addition, the new programoffers a more convenient, time efficient way for crime laboratory supervisorsto train new employees.

"The most unique thing about this program is that people workingin crime laboratories can receive their theoretical training from a reputableacademic institute as well as hands-on practical training in the workplacewithout having to leave their jobs and relocate.

Fifty-three students are now registered, including representatives fromseveral state crime labs as well as the Army and Navy drug testing laboratories.That number might not be so impressive if it didn't-in its first year-alreadyrepresent a near-doubling of the UF veterinary college's graduate studentpopulation, university officials say.

Offered through UF's Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, theprogram will consist of 15 credit hours, which can be taken in as littleas 12 months or spread out over five semesters. Completion of the programwill lead to a postgraduate certificate in forensic toxicology.

Information about the new course is available at (352) 392-4700, ext.5500 or email program coordinator Donna Wielbo at dwielbo@ufl.edu.