Pathologist Salaries
- The standard pathologist is a physician who chooses to specialize in pathology. He must earn his degree from a four-year medical school, then complete a residency in pathology that takes several years. The earnings for a pathologist are quite high, with most pathologists earning more than $100,000 per year. According to Salary.com, as of April 2011, the median annual salary for pathologists was $245,871. The middle 50 percent of pathologists earned between $215,279 and $290,488 per year. Top earners in the field made more than $300,000 per year.
- Forensic pathologists work with bodily fluids and tissues -- as well as cadavers, bones and other human remains -- to gain clues about crimes. Forensic pathologists present this evidence to members of law enforcement and the courts, and they often testify in court about their findings. Since they are often public servants, their salaries can vary widely according to their experience and the budgets of the municipalities they work for. According to ExploreHealthCareers.org, forensic pathologists earn annual salaries that range from $105,000 to $500,000 per year. In fall of 2009, two California counties, Kerns and Riverside, posted job listings on the California State Coroners Association website for forensic pathologists offering salaries between $153,512 and $253,000.
- Veterinary pathologists examine the fluids and tissues of animals, both to treat disease and illness and for research and development. These veterinary specialists help diagnose pets, zoo animals, livestock and exotic, rare and valuable animals. They also work for drug and chemical companies to help determine the effects of their products on domestic animals and wildlife. According to the website CVTips, veterinary pathologists earn annual salaries between $75,000 and $114,000.
- Speech-language pathologists, or SLPs, do not work with bodily fluids or tissues at all. They help those with speech and language issues to improve their communication skills and functionality through rehabilitation and alternative communication strategies. SLPs are not medical doctors, but they do typically have postgraduate degrees. SLPs must hold a state license and may be required to be certified. Salary.com reports that the median annual salary for a SLP in April 2011 was $67,906, with the middle 50 percent of SLPs earning between $62,361 and $73,414 per year.