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What should I study in college to become a forensic pathologist?

My current plan is to study Biology and then go to med school but im wondering if theres an easier route to achive this. Do I have to go to med school? #biology #forensic

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Jerel’s Answer

Hi Olivia,

Forensic pathology is the practice of medicine concerning injury analysis and performance of autopsies to determine cause and manner of death. Therefore, to become a forensic pathologist, one must earn a medical degree; either MD or DO as Michael previously stated. All forensic pathologists are medical doctors with an MD or DO degree. The educational / training requirements to become a forensic pathologist involve many years of study. Below is a rough timeline of the educational / training requirements you can expect to become a forensic pathologist:

• 4 years of college
• 4 years of medical school
• 4 years of residency
• 1-year forensic pathology fellowship

Here are the links to some great resources that will provide you some additional information:

https://www.purdue.edu/science/careers/what_can_i_do_with_a_major/Career%20Pages/forensic_pathologist.html
https://www.rcpath.org/discover-pathology/careers-in-pathology/careers-in-medicine/become-a-forensic-pathologist.html
https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/forensic-pathologist/
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Joshua’s Answer

I would note that there are a few related professions to consider:
Pathologist Assistant-2yr Masters
Forensic Nurse- 4yr BSN
Coroner/Medical Examiner- Varies- Get Elected/Appointed, look up your state law for additional requirements
Assorted forensic Techs- Associates/bachelors degree/high school

Forensic pathology is a very specialized field requiring 8-9 yrs of training in medicine and pathology first. It is a great field, but I would shadow a pathologist and learn about the day to day as it is quite different than what is often portrayed, while still very rewarding.
Thank you comment icon Forensic chemistry, anthropology, psychology, and toxicology should also be noted, each require a PhD in their field. Joshua Clark
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