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.
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
Education
Complete a bachelor’s or higher degree in: a Department-registered program leading to licensure as a Pathologists' Assistant, a National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredited pathologists’ assistant program, or the equivalent.
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
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a pathologists' assistant about what they do and how they got started!
