Career roadmap
How to Become a Pathologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a pathologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a pathologist: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete medical school, (3) complete pathology residency, (4) pass boards, (5) complete a fellowship. Most people need about 12 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a pathologist
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Pre-med.
Complete medical school
Four years.
Complete pathology residency
Four years.
Pass boards
ABPath.
Complete a fellowship
Often one year.
Education and training requirements
Medical school plus a four-year pathology residency are required, along with a license and board certification.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Internship/residency |
| Typical training time | 12 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- ABPath board certification: American Board of Pathology.
- State medical license: Required.
- Dermatopathology certification: Subspecialty.
- Forensic pathology certification: Subspecialty.
Skills to build now
Start with histopathology, cytopathology, and clinical laboratory medicine, and practice attention to detail and analytical thinking. Learning the pathologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Pathology Resident: Train.
- Pathologist: Practice.
- Subspecialist: After fellowship.
- Laboratory Medical Director: Lead labs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Pathologist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long is training?
About 12 years after high school, plus any fellowship.
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.
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.
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.