duties and responsibilities Pathologists study and collect tissue and bodily fluids to diagnose, study, and treat diseases. They perform research and run tests. Fluids studied may include blood and urine, tissues may be used from pap smears and biopsies to diagnose diseases. It is possible to perform autopsies to determine the causes of death. Or you may lead with laboratory responsibilities and managing other lab technicians and physicians. salary $302,610 education To become a Pathologist it may take a course of 12 years or more. You must join a program to receive a Bachelor's degree in a pre medical curriculum. Then you must enter a medical school and receive an M.D or D.O. Programs may last 4 years and subjects include: pathology, emergency medicine, cardiology, medical ethics. Then you enter residency and a fellowship soon after. Finally the last step is to be licensed. demand for career This career is needed when it comes to the study of fluids and body ...