First and foremost a forensic pathologist is a medically trained doctor. This is not the same as a coroner, who is a government official responsible for confirming and certifying death within the jurisdiction that they operate. They are responsible for maintain records of death certificates, and their role within the legal system is more bureaucratic. The forensic pathologist is the individual responsible for the actual autopsy that determines the cause of death. Although forensic pathologists work alongside coroners, they do not have the same function within the legal system.
Since forensic pathologists perform autopsies in the event of suspected criminal death, they are responsible for making a number of determinations. Forensic pathologists will look at the process of death and determine the nature of the wounds in relation to death. They are also responsible for determining whether the manner of death and whether it can be characterized as a homicide, accident, natural, or a suicide. They collect trace evidence and collect tissues and fluids to examine under a microscope in order to help with their determinations.
Since forensic pathologists are medical doctors, as part of their training they will have completed medical schooling in anatomical pathology. Over the entire period of their education, forensic pathologists will have completed 13 to 15 years of education. This includes their baccalaureate, medical school, a three year residency, and an additional residency called a fellowship that generally lasts for one year. This additional residency is a requirement for board certification by the American Board of Pathology, and many forensic pathologists include in their three year residency training in both anatomical and clinical pathology. Th most difficult aspect for anyone considering entering the field forensic pathology is not so much the length of education and training but actually getting into medical school. Medical schools tend to be very competitive and the expense and the rigors of the schooling drive many people away.
The salary outlooks for forensic pathologists are generally very excellent with growth in the field to continue as the population continues to increase. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the average salary of a forensic pathologist as being $55,070. However, since this a median, the highs and lows of the salary are telling. For instance, the pay range for forensic pathologists in 2011 was between $42,422 and $162,105. With only one to four years of experience, forensic pathologists can expect to earn anywhere between $41,000 and $101,000. However, with five to nine years of experience, forensic pathologists can expect to earn between $100,000 and $170,000, which represents a considerable jump in income. At nineteen years of experience, salaries for forensic pathologists tend to top out around $188,000, which is still an excellent salary for someone within a medical field.
Kara Martin writes for forensics blogs. If you're considering a forensics career, find research on forensic pathologist salaries.
