Here’s a brief list of what Pathologists do:

• Diagnosis: Examining tissues, cells, and bodily fluids to diagnose diseases and conditions using techniques such as microscopy, molecular diagnostics, and immunohistochemistry.

• Autopsy: Performing autopsies to determine the cause of death and understand disease processes.

• Laboratory Testing: Overseeing and interpreting results from clinical laboratory tests, including blood tests, microbiology cultures, and genetic tests.

• Consultation: Providing expert opinions to other healthcare professionals, including surgeons, oncologists, and general practitioners, on diagnostic findings and treatment options.

• Research: Conducting research to improve diagnostic methods, understand disease mechanisms, and develop new treatments.

• Quality Assurance: Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures.

• Education: Teaching medical students, residents, and fellow pathologists about pathology and laboratory medicine.

Here’s how YOU can become one:

1. Educational Foundation:

• High School Education: Focus on biology, chemistry, mathematics (including statistics), and physics. These subjects provide a strong foundation for understanding medical sciences.

2. Undergraduate Degree:

• Pursue a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or pre-medical studies. Ensure your coursework includes prerequisites for medical school (e.g., organic chemistry, physics, biology).

• Maintain a high GPA and seek opportunities for research or internships in medical or biological sciences.

3. Medical School (MD or DO):

• Complete a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree program at an accredited medical school.

• Medical school typically takes four years and includes classroom learning in basic medical sciences (anatomy, physiology, pharmacology), clinical skills training, and rotations in various medical specialties.

4. Residency Training in Pathology:

• After medical school, complete a residency program in pathology. Pathology residency programs generally last 3-4 years.

• During residency, you'll receive specialized training in anatomic pathology (examining tissues, organs, and autopsies) and clinical pathology (laboratory testing, blood analysis, microbiology).

5. Fellowship Training (Optional):

• Consider pursuing a fellowship in a subspecialty of pathology if you wish to specialize further (e.g., surgical pathology, cytopathology, hematopathology, forensic pathology).

• Fellowships typically last 1-2 years and provide advanced training and expertise in a specific area of pathology.

6. Board Certification:

• Obtain board certification in pathology by passing the certification exams administered by the American Board of Pathology (ABP) or the American Osteopathic Board of Pathology (AOBP).

• Certification demonstrates your proficiency and commitment to high standards of practice in pathology.

7. Licensure and Registration:

• Obtain a medical license to practice pathology in your state or country. Requirements vary, but typically include passing the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) or the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA).

• Depending on your career path, you may also need additional certifications or licenses, such as forensic pathology certification for medical examiners.

  This is a very brief and general plan. To know your specific academic path for this career please talk to an advisor at the college or program you plan on attending!