What’s a pathologist? What they do and how you can become one

What does a pathologist do?

A pathologist is a medical professional who studies the causes and effects of diseases by examining different sample types from patients. Their work can include analyzing blood, biopsies or fluid to diagnose diseases and help guide treatment plans.

Pathologists play a key factor in determining the nature of illnesses, infections and various chronic conditions such as cancer. They often work behind the scenes to support other healthcare providers with their findings and collaborate with specialists to develop personalized treatments for patients.

Different types of pathologists

Pathology is divided into two primary branches: anatomic and clinical, with many pathologists working in both areas.

• Anatomic pathology involves the examination of organs and tissues, including the analysis of PAP smears, biopsies and autopsies.
• Clinical pathology is concerned with the analysis of bodily fluids, such as blood and urine.

Both branches have various subspecialties, including but not limited to:

• Chemical pathology: The analysis of bodily fluids and toxins to diagnose and treat diseases.
• Cytopathology: The diagnosis of diseases, particularly cancer, by examining cells from tissues and secretions.
• Dermatopathology: The examination of skin conditions at a microscopic level.
• Forensic pathology: The evaluation of deceased bodies during autopsies to determine the cause of death.
• Hematopathology: The identification of diseases affecting the blood, bone marrow and lymph nodes.
• Gynecologic pathology: The study of diseases affecting the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus and cervix.
• Molecular genetic pathology: The identification and tracking of genetic, infectious diseases and cancers.
• Neuropathology: The analysis of nervous system disorders by examining tissues and cells.
• Pediatric pathology: The study of disease and illness in fetuses, infants, children, adolescents and young adults.
• Transfusion medicine pathology: The oversight of blood bank operations and services.

How to become a pathologist

To become a pathologist, you begin by earning a four-year undergraduate degree, ideally in biology or chemistry. Next, you'll need to attend an accredited medical school to obtain your MD. Afterward, you’ll complete a medical residency, which is required for full licensure as a practicing pathologist. Typically, a pathology residency lasts three years and includes both anatomical and clinical pathology training. Finally, you’ll also need to complete additional training if you wish to specialize in a specific area of pathology.

Start your journey to becoming a pathologist with ASU Online

Arizona State University  offers several online bachelor’s programs that can start you on your path to a career in pathology.

If you’re looking for a program more specific to pathology, consider the Bachelor of Science in pharmacology and toxicology. The pathology side of the program covers the chemicals associated with the prevention, treatment and diagnosis of diseases, while the toxicology focuses on the effects of poisonous chemicals.

The Bachelor of Science in medical studies is a pre-med degree that will provide you with the prerequisite knowledge you’ll need to prepare you for entrance exams. You’ll gain a wide range of knowledge in this program and can explore various areas of the medical field.

Since you’ll need to complete an MD to become a pathologist, our BS in biological sciences or BS in biochemistry are also great stepping stones towards medical school.