How To Become a Pathologist
What Is a Pathologist?
A pathologist is a medical doctor who specializes in investigating the causes and effects of both diseases and injuries. Their work supports the work of other doctors in making diagnoses and developing treatment plans for patients, which is why pathologists are sometimes referred to as “doctors’ doctors.”1
Within this field of medicine, there are a few main areas of specialization, as well as multiple subspecialties. Anatomical pathologists focus on the analysis of tissues and organs. Clinical pathologists specialize in the testing of body fluids and cells extracted from tissue samples. Professionals who conduct both categories of tests are general pathologists. Some subspecialties within these categories include forensic, chemical and pediatric pathology.1 No matter which specialization you’re interested in, the career pathway is similar.
What Does a Pathologist Do?
An accurate diagnosis, the basis for an effective treatment plan, is made possible by the expertise of pathologists. What does a pathologist do to help patients achieve the right diagnosis? They conduct a variety of tests using sophisticated medical laboratory equipment. These tests help to uncover the causes and effects of diseases and injuries. Their findings can support the care of living patients or uncover potential causes of death. While the specific duties of a pathologist can vary depending on their specialization, these medical doctors may do any of the following:1,3
Visual Exam
Pathologists typically begin by visually examining fluids and tissue samples, both with the naked eye and with a microscope.
As you can see, a pathologist is a unique type of medical doctor in that they do not typically interact much with patients. However, their work is vital in helping patients discover the reasons for their symptoms. Thanks to pathologists’ laboratory analyses, treating physicians can develop patient-focused treatment plans.
If you have a passion for both science and healthcare, you might consider becoming a pathologist. While some pathologists might deviate slightly from the standard career pathway, there are some requirements they all must meet. Here’s a look at how to become a pathologist:
The first step in becoming a pathologist is to complete your high school education. You’ll want to work toward achieving good grades, especially in science and math courses. If possible, try to take advanced courses in biology, chemistry, physics and calculus. Humanities classes, including English and foreign languages, are also important, as pathologists need strong communication skills. If your school offers it, you may also want to try to take an introductory psychology class.3
After graduating from high school, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree. There is no specific bachelor’s degree that all pathologists must earn; however, you will need to choose a program that allows you to meet the requirements to apply to medical school. It’s common for future medical school students to choose a biology major, although a few other degree programs may also allow you to meet the medical school entrance requirements.4
Medical school admissions are very competitive.4 You’ll want to focus on getting exceptional grades during your bachelor’s degree, as well as complete extracurriculars related to your field of study. It may also be helpful to look for relevant volunteer positions and part-time jobs in healthcare. If you do become a medical school student, you’ll work through instructional coursework and hands-on learning activities, including patient care.4
After graduating from medical school, future pathologists must enter a residency program, which lasts for three to four years.4 During this time, they are known as “residents”—a type of entry-level role in medicine. Following your residency program, you might also gain fellowship training for one or more years in your chosen subspecialty area.4
All aspiring medical doctors, including pathologists, must pass a series of intensive examinations to obtain a medical license. In addition, pathologists may obtain board certification by passing the anatomic pathology or clinical pathology exam through the American Board of Pathology.3
Pathologists and other types of medical doctors have a lengthy career preparation pathway with many requirements to meet. However, if you’re dedicated to pursuing a medical career and genuinely want to help patients, then you may find this career path worth the effort. Pathologists can support the care of patients with cancer, chromosome disorders and a wide range of other medical conditions.1
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Best Degrees for Pathologists
All pathologists need to attend medical school, pass the licensure exams and obtain a medical license, just like other types of physicians. While it’s possible to pursue entry into medical school with a variety of different degrees, the most relevant degree is a pre-med emphasis that will allow you to meet the admission requirements for your chosen medical schools.4
In a pre-med emphasis or related degree program, you will generally have a blend of instructional coursework and laboratory classes. Your degree program will take an in-depth look at the sciences, such as biology, chemistry and physics. If you decide to earn a bachelor’s degree that doesn’t meet medical school admission requirements, then you might consider adding additional coursework or a minor area of study.
Remember that the most relevant bachelor’s degree program for an aspiring pathologist is a pre-med emphasis. However, there may also be some other choices available to you. You should research the entrance requirements for the medical schools you may want to attend prior to enrolling in a degree program.
Bachelor’s Programs
Other Programs
Pathologists need strong competencies in medical science and laboratory testing, along with a variety of soft skills. To be effective in their role as diagnostic experts, a pathologist can benefit from a diverse skill set that includes the following:1,3,4
- Medical diagnostics
- Use of laboratory equipment
- Chemistry
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving
- Manual dexterity
- Organizational skills
Median Annual Wage
All types of physicians can expect to have strong earnings potential. An individual’s salary can depend on many factors, including geographic location, years of experience and additional credentials. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook reports that the median annual salary for pathologists as of May 2023 was $270,560.5
Projected Job Growth
The BLS is projecting that the estimated job growth rate for pathologists from 2023 through 2033 will be 5%, faster than average. As of 2023, there were about 11,800 pathologists in the U.S. At a 5% rate of growth, it’s expected that healthcare employers will hire about 600 new pathologists through 2033.6
Advancement Opportunities Within Pathology
Since the role of the pathologist is not an entry-level one, many pathologists may decide to stay in this role for the entirety of their careers. Others may decide to pursue career advancement. After gaining some experience, a pathologist may pursue a career as the director of a pathology lab or in hospital administration. Some pathologists may alternatively pursue leadership positions in research organizations or medical schools, while others might start their own independent pathology laboratory.8
Pursue your passion for medical science and patient care. Request information about earning your pre-med emphasis at GCU today.
1 Santiago, A.C. (2024, Feb. 27). What Does a Pathologist Do? Verywell Health. Retrieved Oct. 31, 2024.
2 Buchko, M. (2024, March). Pathologists in the U.S. – Market Research Report (2014-2029). IBIS World. Retrieved Oct. 31, 2024.
3 Stevens, A., PhD. (2024, Aug. 18). How to Become a Pathologist in 8 Steps (with salary). Indeed. Retrieved Oct. 31, 2024.
4 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, Aug. 29). How to Become a Physician or Surgeon. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved Oct. 31, 2024.
5 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Pathologists, as of May 2023, retrieved on Nov. 19, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as Pathologists, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
6 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Social and Community Service Managers, retrieved on Nov. 19, 2024.
7 Cleveland Clinic. (2023, Jan. 17). Pathologist. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved Oct. 31, 2024.
8 Vault. (n.d.). Pathologists. Vault. Retrieved Oct. 31, 2024.