Requirements to become a Medical Examiner

Overview Being a medical examiner takes a lot more work than simply having a

forensic science degree. In order to become a medical examiner, one must not only have the proper training in chemistry, biology and physics, but must also attend medical school and become a Doctor of Medicine (MD). If a student is interested in becoming a medical examiner, he or she should begin planning as early as their first year in college, taking science courses and studying the disciplines that will help them become admitted to medical school.

Once a prospective medical examiner graduates and enters medical school, they should seek forensic pathology or pathology courses that are offered. Although the field and specialty are usually decided during the last year of medical school, residencies and internships should be focused on that area of interest. Residencies in pathology are currently a 5 year process. Once the residency is complete, you must pass the examine administered by the American Board of Pathology to become board certified in pathology and forensic pathology. This entire process takes about takes 8-13 years of additional education.

Undergraduate CoursesDuring your undergraduate level, you should consider taking courses such

as:

Humanities

Psychology

Anatomy

Pathology

Physiology

Science

Chemistry

Biology

Medical School CoursesWhile in medical school, you should consider taking courses such as:

Forensic Pathology

Anthropology

Anatomy

Pathology

Physiology

Forensic Anthropology