How much does a pathologist make?

Pathologists examine thin glass slides and lab results from tissue, blood, or fluid samples, then write reports explaining what they found. They may discuss tricky cases with surgeons and check that lab tests are accurate.

Did you know? Autopsies are only a small part of pathology residency; some pathologists never do one after training.

U.S. pathologists earn a bachelor’s degree, complete four years of medical school and usually four years of pathology residency, and pass USMLE exams. They then get a state license; many start practice around age 30, later if they do a fellowship.

School needed: Graduate degree or long training

Good for people who like figuring things out and building and doing

Why does pay differ?

In the U.S., more experience, extra specialty training or credentials, and harder responsibilities can affect a pathologist’s pay. Location and employer type matter too: pay may differ between university settings and non-academic hospitals or labs.