Careers in the Licensed Professions
Pathologists' Assistant Print Profile 
Pathologists' assistants provide services under the supervision of a licensed physician who practices anatomic pathology—the visual and microscopic examination of human organs and tissues. Examples of services:
- prepare large tissue sections so they can be analyzed for disease
- describe anatomic features and dissect surgical specimens
- submit tissues for bio-banking or analysis
- examine people who have died, including gathering and recording information for autopsy reports
Note: these licensed professionals do not provide medical diagnoses or opinions.
Education |
Complete a bachelor’s or higher degree in a National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredited pathologists’ assistant program. |
Examination |
Obtain a passing score on an examination acceptable to the Department, such as the pathologists' assistant certification exam of the American Society of Clinical Pathology Board of Certification |
Visit the Office of the Professions for a listing of all options and requirements.
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Salary and Projected Growth
- Median salary: $89,999
- Salary range: $75,000 to $100,000+
- Projected growth: faster than average
Where Could I Work?
- Hospitals and clinics
- Private pathology laboratory
- Forensic pathology labs and morgues
- Government
- Academia and research
Your Interests and Abilities
- Anatomy and physiology
- Laboratory science
- Handling and examining human bodies, organs and tissues
Professional Skills
- Analytical thinking
- Attention to detail
- Fine motor skills
- Leadership and teaching
- Communication
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a pathologists' assistant about what they do and how they got started!
