Career as a Pathologist

Pathologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing diseases by examining tissues, cells, and organs. They play a critical role in patient care by providing diagnostic information that influences treatment decisions. Pathologists work in various settings, including hospitals, laboratories, and research institutions. Their work involves a combination of laboratory analysis, clinical consultation, and sometimes research.

Eligibility

Educational Requirements

  1. Undergraduate Degree: A candidate must first complete an undergraduate degree (MBBS) from a recognized medical college. This typically takes 5.5 years, including a one-year internship.
  2. Postgraduate Degree: After obtaining an MBBS degree, the candidate must pursue a postgraduate degree in pathology (MD in Pathology or Diploma in Clinical Pathology). The MD program typically lasts three years, while the diploma program lasts two years.

Additional Requirements

  1. Medical Registration: Candidates must be registered with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or a state medical council.
  2. Entrance Exams: Admission to postgraduate pathology programs usually requires passing a national or state-level entrance exam, such as NEET-PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduates).

Selection Procedure

  1. NEET-PG Exam: Candidates must appear for and secure a good rank in the NEET-PG exam, which is the primary entrance test for MD/MS and PG Diploma courses in India.
  2. Counseling: Based on NEET-PG ranks, candidates participate in a counseling process to secure a seat in a recognized medical college offering a pathology program.
  3. Merit and Quotas: Selection is based on merit, though there may be reservations or quotas for various categories (e.g., SC/ST/OBC, physically handicapped).

Job Opportunities

  1. Hospitals and Clinics: Pathologists are employed in hospitals and clinics, both in the private and public sectors, where they perform diagnostic tests and collaborate with other doctors.
  2. Laboratories: Many pathologists work in diagnostic laboratories, including private labs, government labs, and research institutions.
  3. Academia and Research: Opportunities exist for pathologists to work as faculty members in medical colleges or as researchers in biomedical research institutions.
  4. Forensic Pathology: Some pathologists specialize in forensic pathology, working with law enforcement agencies and medical examiners’ offices.
  5. Consultancy: Experienced pathologists may work as consultants, providing expert opinions on complex cases.

Institutes for Pathology Studies in India

  1. All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
  2. Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
  3. Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh
  4. Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune
  5. Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal
  6. King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Lucknow
  7. Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry
  8. Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC), New Delhi
  9. Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC), New Delhi
  10. Seth GS Medical College, Mumbai

These institutes are renowned for their medical programs and have well-established pathology departments offering comprehensive training and research opportunities

Scroll to Top