A forensic pathologist performing lab work. (c) Jupiterimages/ Photos.com/ Getty Images
A forensic pathologist, or a medical examiner, is a trained physician whose responsability is that of determining the cause, means and circumstances of death for an individual who has died suddenly, suspiciously, unnaturally or unexpectedly.
A forensic pathology practitioner will analyze the medical history of the deceased individual and crime scene evidence and witness testimonials, perform an autopsy to assess whether death was caused by injury or disease, as well to collect further evidence from the body.
In most jurisdictions, there are five main legally recognized causes of death: natural, homicide, suicide, accident and undetermined. After his investigation is complete, a forensic pathologist is required to document his findings in a report and sometimes may be required to testify in court. As such forensic pathologists are often crucial witnesses in court trials involving death, as their testimony and credibility can help determine a defendant’s guilt or innocence.
The work in this field is hard, the hours long, and the responsibilities numerous. It’s a tough job by all means, and considering a forensic pathologist has to deal with people past away on a day to day basis, this is not a career for the weak of heart, or stomach moreover! However, not only is the career prospect incredibly appealing and the paycheck makes up for the efforts and sacrifices, a forensic pathologist actually makes a difference in the world.
Here’s a great short video which explains in a nutshell what a forensic pathologist job entails.
Forensic Pathologist Education Requirements
To become a forensic pathologist, typically one has to go through minimum of 13 years of post high school education and training. Considering this career heavily relies on biology, chemistry, physics, and other core sciences, an aspirant must have strong aptitude for science.
The first step is to get an undergraduate degree in a medical or science discipline, before completing a four-year medical school program to become a M.D. During your undergraduate education, you may choose whatever major you like, but keep in mind that certain classes are required for admission to medical school. Be sure to thoroughly research your post-undergrad options and requirements, which vary from institution to institution, before choosing your bachelor curriculum. Read our list of forensic pathology schools.
After you graduate from med school, you will be required to pass a licensing exam to become a M.D. Hopefully, after you’ve become a licensed M.D., you’ll be ready to enroll in a four-year residency in anatomic and clinical pathology. An extra one-year of forensic pathology residency, will be required afterwards, before ultimately you’ll be allowed to attend your regional pathology and forensic pathology board exams. After you pass these, you’re eligible to enter this career field.
Forensic Pathologist Salary
The educational and training requirements from above have been posted for the US, as such we’ll continue with an overview of a typical forensic pathologist’s salary in the same country. The salary of a forensic pathologist varies according to the employer and location, and most importantly on his work experience and specializations. The most you know and the more cases you solve, the higher your earning potential will be.
The average forensic pathologist salary, depending on years of experience, location, and position, falls between $80,000 and $200,000 per year. A forensic pathologist with 20+ years experience can earn as much as $272,000 a year plus insurance, vacations, and other benefits. Some forensic pathologists work in private practice or offer consultancy gigs, which usually brings in a hefty extra paycheck. If you have the determination and perseverance, you can earn quite a living in this line of criminal justice.
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