If you are somebody who enjoys watching thriller or suspense movies, chances are you might have come across the word “autopsy”. And often seen a person in a lab coat inspecting the victim’s body with surgical tools.
The person on the screen is portraying a Forensic Pathologist. Movies are made for the entertainment process, and thus fail to depict them accurately. It is a job that requires utmost caution and precision.
Ever wanted to be that all-knowing, brave character? We’ve got information on how to become a forensic pathologist. The best courses and colleges you can try in India and abroad, the job preparation required, and the salary insights.
A forensic pathologist is a subspecialist whose field of expertise is the study of people who have died abruptly, strangely, or brutally. A forensic pathologist specializes in determining the cause and manner of death.
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Becoming a Forensic Pathologist is a long process as it requires a post-graduate degree and certifications. It is a challenging job that requires excellent mastery of skillsets.
One will have to choose the science stream for Grade 11, and 12. There are two pathways through which one can become a Forensic Pathologist.
To pursue a career as a forensic pathologist, you will have to pursue an undergraduate degree in medicine, biology, chemistry, etc. with electives in forensic science, psychology, or related fields.
Post which you can enrol for a master’s degree and clear the due certifications to become a Forensic Pathologist. The eligibility criteria will be mentioned in the Certification section.
How to become a Forensic Pathologist after 12th
After completing your Grade 12 in PCB from a recognized board and university, you can apply for the undergraduate courses. The duration for diploma courses is 1-2 years, and for an undergraduate degree is 3- years.
To become a forensic pathologist in India –
A minimum of 55% in Grade 10 + 2 or equivalent in science stream with PCB subject combination is required to apply for the courses mentioned below.
Few of the entrance examinations that you would be expected to appear for based on the course or university:
Note: For those who want to pursue medicine, will have to appear for the NEET examination after Grade 12.
| Name of the course | Duration |
| Diploma in Forensic Medicine | 2 years |
| Name of the course | Duration |
| BSc in Forensic Science | 3 years |
| BSc Pathology | 3 years |
| MBBS | 5 years |
| BSc (Hon.) in Forensic Science/ Pathology | 3-4 years |
| Name of the College | Location |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education | Manipal |
| Jamia Hamdard University | New Delhi |
| Mumbai University | Mumbai |
| KJC | Bangalore |
| Mahatma Gandhi University | Kottayam |
| St Johns Medical College | Bangalore |
| Amity University | Noida |
| AFMC Pune – Armed Forces Medical College | Pune |
| HIMSR New Delhi – Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research | New Delhi |
| VIMS Bangalore – Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre | Bangalore |
To become a forensic pathologist abroad –
The eligibility criteria to apply for an undergraduate degree abroad are:
| Name of the course | Duration |
| BSc in Forensic Science | 3 years |
| BSc in Forensic Science and Criminal Justice | 3-4 years |
| MBBS | 5 – 6 years |
| Applied Science (Medical Laboratory Science), BAS | 3 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Pathology | 3 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science | 3 years |
| Name of the college | Location |
| New Jersey Institute of Technology | USA |
| Western Sydney University | Australia |
| University of West London | UK |
| The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, Texas |
| The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia | Australia |
| Arizona State University, Tempe, USA | USA |
| Trent University, Canada | Canada |
| RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia | Australia |
| Deakin University | Australia |
| Liverpool John Moores University | UK |
Also read: How to become a Cyber Forensics Expert
During your undergraduate program, you will be based to do an internship as a mandatory step if you want to complete your course. It is crucial to gain exposure and practice in this field.
Working with departments and laboratories will help improve your skillset and give you an upper edge during admission for postgraduate courses.
Your portfolio should include your research and work experiences with evidence of your learnings. Include references, case studies, etc.
One can become a freelance in this field, however, due to the nature of the work and confidentiality expected, it’s advised to be a full-time professional.
As mentioned before, one has to have clear certifications to be eligible to practice as a medical professional. These criteria may differ based on one country to another.
Read more: Career as a Cyber Forensic Expert – Latest Guide
The salary of a Forensic Pathologist differs based on country, position, and institution.
| Country | India(in INR) | US(in dollars) | UK(in pounds) | Australia(in AUS dollars) | China(in CNY) | Russia(in Ruble) |
| Avg. Salary p.a | ₹30,92,762 | $209,146 | £91,027 | AU$99809 | ¥878,526 (CNY) | 224,000 RUB |
Becoming a Forensic Pathologist might be a long procedure, but it is one of the most highly paid and thrilling jobs. As one cannot be certain of the type of cases or situations one might have to work with. It is also a highly satisfying job as being the one who can bring someone to justice and explain the true causes behind the accident or incident.
A forensic pathologist is a subspecialist whose field of expertise is the study of people who have died abruptly, strangely, or brutally. A forensic pathologist specializes in determining the cause and manner of death.
A forensic pathologist earns ₹30,92,762 in India.
To pursue a career as a forensic pathologist, you will have to pursue an undergraduate degree in medicine, biology, chemistry, etc. with electives in forensic science, psychology, or related fields. Post which you can enrol for a master’s degree and clear the due certifications to become a Forensic Pathologist. The eligibility criteria will be mentioned in the Certification section.
It is one of the most highly paid and thrilling jobs. As one cannot be certain of the type of cases or situations one might have to work with.
Yes, during your undergraduate program, you will be based to do an internship as a mandatory step if you want to complete your undergraduate course.
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