Pathologists

High School

If you are interested in pursuing a medical degree, a high school education emphasizing college preparatory classes is a must. Advanced science courses, such as biology, chemistry, and physics are necessary, as are math courses (such as algebra, geometry, and calculus). These classes will provide an introduction to basic science and math concepts and allow you to determine your aptitude in these areas. Especially important are any courses emphasizing laboratory work. Since college will be your next educational step, it is also important to take English courses to develop your researching and writing skills. Foreign language and social science classes will also help make you an appealing candidate for college admission as well as prepare you for your future undergraduate and graduate education. Courses in computer science are a must as well.

Postsecondary Training

Pathologists have many years of training. Like any medical specialist, a pathologist must earn an M.D. or D.O. degree and become licensed to practice medicine, after which begins a four- or five-year pathology residency. Residents may choose to specialize in anatomical pathology (AP) or clinical pathology (CP). Many pathologists, however, prefer to specialize in both anatomical and clinical pathology; licensing as an AP/CP pathologist requires a five-year residency. Various subspecialties require further training beyond the residency.

Visit https://www.pathologytraining.org/directory for a database of pathology training programs in the United States and Canada.