FAQ
Pathologist FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a pathologist.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a pathologist: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about pathologists
Do pathologists see patients?
Rarely; they work mostly in labs.
How long is training?
About 12 years after high school, plus any fellowship.
What does a forensic pathologist do?
Determines cause of death, often for medical examiners.
How much does a pathologist make?
The median annual wage for pathologists was $312,400 ($150.19 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $92,540 and the highest 10% earned more than $449,970.
How long does it take to become a pathologist?
Most people need about 12 years after high school of training. Medical school plus a four-year pathology residency are required, along with a license and board certification.
Do you need a degree to be a pathologist?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
Is pathologist a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.8% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 300 openings each year. Upsides include very high pay; a common challenge is that little direct patient contact.
What skills does a pathologist need?
Key technical skills include histopathology, cytopathology, clinical laboratory medicine, and immunohistochemistry. Employers also value attention to detail, analytical thinking, and communication.
What certifications are available for pathologists?
Common credentials include ABPath board certification, State medical license, Dermatopathology certification, and Forensic pathology certification. Physicians need a state medical license after licensing exams and residency.
Still deciding?
Try the Pathologist fit quiz, compare with Medical Laboratory Technician, or explore Pathologist training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1222 (Physicians, pathologists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Physicians, pathologists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.