A Pathologist is a doctor who works behind the scenes of the health care industry to study and identify the underlying causes of disease and illness. Pathologists are essential to everyday examinations and surgeries as they are the examiners of samples and specimens. Pathologists work closely along side other doctors to communicate results and findings, but rarely work with patients.

Pathologist Training and Certification Requirements

In order to become a Pathologist, one must first attend medical school and receive licensure as a physician before seeking advanced training in pathology. Postgraduate training involves four years in a pathology residency. Pathologists may study in medicine, or specialize in other areas including dentistry, veterinary pathology, and speech pathology.

Pathologists are required to be board certified by the American Board of Pathology (ABP). Upon completion of a pathologist residency, physicians are eligible to take the certification examination administered by the American Board of Pathology. If pathologists choose to specialize in another branch of pathology, they must be board certified by the appropriate organizations.

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Pathology Schools and Degree Programs

Upon completion of medical school and a required four year residency in internal medicine, physicians become certified and may begin advanced training in Pathology. Pathology training typically focuses on the two primary branches of pathology, anatomic pathology and clinical pathology. Anatomic pathology uses the microscopic appearance of tissue to diagnose disease, while clinical pathology uses bodily fluids such as blood and urine to diagnose disease. Pathologists are trained extensively in the diagnoses of disease and laboratory administration. Pathologists are trained in the various tools of pathology including histology, gross pathology, cytology, immunology, clinical chemistry, and molecular biology.

Pathology Prerequisites

All physicians are required to attend an accredited medical school and residency before training to become a Pathologist. Medical schools require undergraduate training in a science related field, as well as successful completion of the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). Various schools and colleges offer flexible course schedules that range from day, night and weekend classes and training sessions. HealthCare-TrainingCenter.com offers free, no obligation assistance as you are searching for courses to meet your Pathologist or Medical School prerequisites. Beginning your search is as simple as using the search feature above.