How do I become a Pathologist

Qualifications

Formal qualifications necessary to become a specialist pathologist in South Africa:
  • Grade 12 certificate with specific minimum percentages in specific subjects as prescribed by universities offering medical degrees.
  • A 6-year Bachelor's degree in Medicine and Surgery. (MBChB)
  • A 2-year clinical internship.
  • 1 year of compulsory community service.
  • Registrar programme at hospital (4 – 5 years)
  • HPCSA registration as a specialist pathologist
Specialist training is done after completing internship and community service.

Note:
The BHSc(Hons) in Forensic Science does not train students to become forensic pathologists. The only way to become a forensic pathologist is to qualify as a medical doctor and then specialize in forensic pathology.