How to Become a Forensic Pathologist: Training and Education Guide
It is likely you have seen forensic pathologists at work in crime shows on television or in various detective films. The job of a forensic pathologist is an interesting and exciting one, however most people do not know exactly what the job entails. Dr. Howard Oliver is a renowned forensic pathologist with over 30 years of experience in the field. He knows the ins and outs of the training, education, and other experiences required to succeed in this field of work. Are you considering a career in forensic pathology? If yes, stop for a moment and go through this
article. This article will explain the right manners, different ways, and
proper mechanisms to set out on career as a forensic pathologist.
Who Are Forensic Pathologists?
A forensic pathologist is a trained physician determined to find out
the exact cause of a death by examining a body. The forensic pathologist will conduct
various tests on a person who has died suddenly or unexpectedly. Thus, he or she
helps detectives and other investigating officers to identify the real suspect
or suspects of a criminal case. Specialized persons can identify the cause of a
wound, suicide, homicide, accidental, natural or unknown death.
Education Guide
As mentioned above, a forensic pathologist is a trained physician.
Therefore, one of the most important qualifications for becoming a forensic pathologist is to obtain a medical degree. Interested persons
must hold a significant postgraduate degree in medical science. He or she must
earn a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) degree from a
registered medical school. Additionally, upon completing a medical degree, one must complete training in a residency
pathology program as well as a fellowship in forensic pathology.
Check out the training and education completed by Dr. Howard Oliver on his website:
Eligibility at a Glance
Educational Qualification:
- Pathology residency (3-4 years)
- Prerequisite College courses (2-4 years)
- Forensic pathology fellowship (1-2 years)
- Medical school (4 years)
Licensure & Certification: Certification and licensure is required from the state medical board (The board certificate must be renewed after every 10 years).
Required Training to Become Successful in This Profession
Individuals interested in this profession must have deep knowledge
in autopsy. He or she must know how to do a post-mortem examination to
uncover important evidence that will explain the cause of death of an individual.
He or she must have a strong sense of how to evaluate criminal evidence
and wounds of a corpse.
The physician must have the ability to conduct various medical tests
and analyze their findings in an official report.
The individual should undergo various training methods to gain sound
knowledge in Toxicology, Trace evidence, DNA technology, Serology (blood
analysis), and Firearms/ballistics. He
or she can attend workshops and seminars related to the aforementioned topics.
Required skills
To hold a bright and successful future in this career, a forensic pathologist must
be capable of working as a coroner or a medical examiner. He or she should be
eligible to supervise a pathological and forensic lab. The right decision-making power is a
precondition for becoming successful in this profession.
An expert in forensic pathology often plays a key role in determining that facts of a criminal case. An expert
in forensic pathology can expect $120,000 to $200,000 as his or her annual salary.
For more information about forensic pathology and the career of Dr. Howard Oliver, connect with him on social media:
