Ph D Pathology is a doctorate course for a period of 3 to 6 years, depending on research progress. The course aims to produce a deep understanding of Biochemistry and Immunology, Disease Pathogenesis, Cell and Molecular Biology, and Diagnostic Methods.
To enroll in the PhD Pathology course, the candidates need to meet the eligibility requirements of the college. To be eligible for a PhD in Pathology, candidates must have a master's degree in a related field and a minimum grade of 55%. Some of the popular entrance exams for Doctor of Philosophy in pathology include CSIR-NET, UGC-NET, and GATE.
PhD Pathology provides candidates with the knowledge in Diagnostic Techniques, Disease Processes, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Prevention, and the study of biomedical sciences and advanced research training. Some of the job roles available for them are Clinical Pathologist, Consultant, and Pathologist.
Salaries for fresh PhD graduates are competitive and vary by sector and expertise. PhD holders in Pathology can expect an average package in the range of INR 8 - 14 lakhs per annum.
PhD in Pathology Course Highlights
The basic details of a PhD in Pathology are as follows:
Particulars | Course Details |
Course Name | Doctorate in Pathology |
Duration | 3 - 6 Years |
Eligibility | Candidates must have a master's degree in a related field, and a minimum grade of 55% and should have cleared entrance exams like CSIR-NET/ UGC-NET/GATE |
Admission Process | Entrance Based |
Entrance Examinations | CSIR-NET/ UGC-NET/GATE |
Career Prospects | Clinical Pathologist, Consultant, Pathologist |
Average Package after PhD | INR 8 - 14 lakhs per annum |
What is a PhD in Pathology?
A PhD in Pathology is a doctoral course that involves research to discover and study aspects of diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disease. The course focuses on the Investigation of Disease and Diagnostic Techniques.
Like, a researcher investigates how specific mutations in DNA contribute to the development of tumors and tests various diagnostic techniques, such as blood tests, to identify these markers in patients before symptoms appear to improve early diagnosis, prevent progression, and enhance treatment strategies for cancer patients.
It focuses on generating the creation of new knowledge, theories, or methodologies. It provides individuals with in-depth expertise, strong research capabilities, and enhanced critical thinking skills.
Why Study a PhD in Pathology?
A doctorate in Pathology is a field of study that opens up diverse career opportunities in research and academia. The course provides in-depth knowledge of Disease Pathogenesis, Diagnostic Methods, Biochemistry, Immunology, and Cell and Molecular Biology.
A Doctorate in Pathology is in high demand because of the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, there is a need for skilled pathologists and researchers.
Like, skilled pathologists and researchers put efforts to understand diseases like cancer. Also, they enable doctors to tailor therapies based on the genetic profile of a patient's tumour, resulting in improved patient outcomes.
PhD in Pathology Eligibility Criteria
Students should have the following eligibility to take admission in a doctorate in pathology :
- The candidates must have a master's degree in a related field and a minimum grade of 55%.
- Candidates should have cleared entrance exams like CSIR-NET, UGC-NET, and GATE.
PhD in Pathology Entrance Exams
Some of the popular entrance exams for a Doctorate in Pathology include CSIR-NET, UGC-NET, and GATE.
Entrance Examination | Registration Date | Date of Examination |
UGC NET | 16 April- 13 May 2025 | 21 June -30 June 2025 |
CSIR NET | Decemebr 2025 (Tentative) | Feb 2026 (Tentative) |
GATE | Oct 2025 (Tentative) | Feb 2026 (Tentative) |
BLDE PhD Entrance Test 2025 | 13 Jan- 5 Mar 2025 | 20 Mar 2025 |
Top Colleges in India for PhD in Pathology
Some of the top colleges for the doctorate in pathology, based on the NIRF Ranking 2024, are as follows:
NIRF Ranking 2024 (Medical) | College Name | City, State |
1 (Medical)
7 (Overall) | AIIMS | Delhi |
13 (Engineering) | S.R.M. Institute of Science & Technology | Chennai, Tamil Nadu |
16 (Overall)
8 (University) | Aligarh Muslim University | Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh |
28 (Medical) | St. John’s Medical College | Bengaluru, Karnataka |
86 (University) | Sharda University (School of Medical Science and Research) | Noida |
- | BLDE Deemed to be a university | Vijaypura |
PhD in Pathology VS MD in Pathology
PhD in Pathology stands for Doctor of Philosophy in Pathology, which focuses on research and advancing knowledge in the field of pathology. After this course, one can work in academic research or laboratory science.
MD in Pathology stands for Doctor of Medicine in Pathology, which is a professional medical degree focused on the clinical practice of diagnosing diseases through laboratory testing, including blood tests. After an MD in Pathology, one can work in hospitals, diagnostic labs, or as consultants.
PhD in Pathology Jobs
The basic details of jobs after a doctorate in pathology are as follows:
- Industry: It can lead to jobs in research and academia or related fields.
- Employment Demand: A PhD in Pathology is in high demand, offering jobs like Clinical Pathologist, Consultant and Professor.
- Average Salary: The average salary after PhD Pathology varies depending on experience, industry and location. The average salary is between INR 8- 15 lakhs per annum.
There are various job roles available for PhD holders in Pathology. As per Payscale, the average package of various job roles according to the years of experience is mentioned in the table below:
Job Roles | Entry level | Experience level |
Clinical Pathologist | INR 6-9 LPA | INR 15-18 LPA |
Consultant | INR 6-8 LPA | INR 10-12 LPA |
Professor | INR 5-8 LPA | INR 12-15 LPA |
Researcher | INR 6-8 LPA | INR 15-20 LPA |
PhD in Pathology FAQs
Is pathology a good career?
Pathology is a great career one can pursue, as the demand for it is rising because of the rising prevalence of chronic diseases. The PhD in Pathology specifically provides an in-depth understanding of the subject.
What is the scope of a PhD in pathology?
The PhD in Pathology opens broad gateways to multiple opportunities that the candidates can pursue. After a Doctorate in pathology, one can pursue a career as a Professor, Pathologist, Researcher and Consultant.
How long is a PhD in pathology?
A PhD in pathology is generally of 3-6 years, and includes topics such as histopathology, molecular pathology, laboratory management, and clinical research practices.
Is a pathologist a doctor in India?
A pathologist is a type of medical doctor. They deal with a variety of medical conditions and they work with bodily fluids such as blood and human tissue.
Can a PhD doctor treat patients?
No, after a PhD, one is not allowed to work as a doctor. But is allowed to do research and participate in clinical trials. A pathologist indulge in the lab tests.
