What kind of training does a medical examiner need?
Medical examiners must have an undergraduate degree in pre-medicine, pathology, or law or other related field. They also need a Doctor of Medicine degree and certification in pathology. Most medical school programs include two years of coursework including laboratory experience and two years of supervised direct patient care. After completion of medical school, aspiring medical examiners must complete a forensic pathology residency that typically takes 3 to 8 years to complete. All states require medical examiners to be licensed pathologists. Licensing requirements typically include extensive work experience and passing a written examination. Medical examiners can also become board certified from the American Board of Pathology.
