1. Doctor
To become a medical pathologist it is necessary to obtain a medical degree, which takes approximately five years. All medical graduates will then enter a two year Foundation Programme immediately following graduation and after completion will then apply for specialty training. Doctors wishing to train in pathology must decide which branch of pathology they prefer:
Chemical pathology/clinical biochemistry
Haematology
Histopathology
Medical microbiology and virology
Immunology

2. Clinical scientist
Clinical scientists are graduates, usually with a first or upper second honours degree in a subject like biochemistry, and often with a PhD. They usually undertake a three-year paid programme of basic training, followed by four to five years of specialist training. For further information regarding scientist training, contact The Association of Clinical Scientists

3. Biomedical scientist (BMS)
Biomedical scientists are honours graduates in science, but usually enter training in pathology after their first degree. Training takes up to two years, depending on the context of the first degree. For further information regarding biomedical scientist training, contact The Institute of Biomedical Science

How do I become a forensic pathologist?
You can only become a forensic pathologist after graduating from medical school and completing foundation training.

Forensic pathology is a specialised branch of histopathology and those intending to pursue a career in forensic pathology should first train in histopathology. The run-through training programme is a minimum of five years postgraduate training.

Training in forensic pathology will begin after approximately two to three years of training in histopathology and acquisition of Part 1 of the membership examination of the Royal College of Pathologists (MRCPath).

Forensic pathologists are supported in their work by clinical, biomedical and forensic scientists. Scientists can specialise, for example, in DNA fingerprinting or the identification of plant material and fibres.

How do I become a veterinary pathologist?
Those interested in veterinary pathology must first obtain a veterinary degree. For further information regarding veterinary pathology training, contact the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

There is also guidance on the College website prepared by the Specialty Advisory Committee on Veterinary Pathology on how to prepare for the College MRCPath examinations in veterinary pathology

Where can I find more information about becoming a pathologist?
You can find further information on the Careers section of our website.