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updates | August 03, 2026

What does an anatomical pathology technician do?

As an anatomical pathology technologist (APT), you’ll work in mortuaries assisting pathologists conducting post-mortem examinations. You’ll take and deliver samples of tissue and fluids, which will help you understand disease processes as well as establish the cause of death.

How much do pathology technicians make?

Pathology Technician Salary

Annual Salary Hourly Wage
Top Earners $74,500 $36
75th Percentile $47,500 $23
Average $48,264 $23
25th Percentile $35,000 $17

How long does it take to become a pathology technician?

Certification process In order to take the certification exam, you must have a bachelor’s degree and must have completed an accredited pathologists’ assistant program within a five-year period. To remain certified, you must complete continuing education coursework every three years.

What degree do you need to be a pathology technician?

Earn an associate’s degree Most employers require pathology technicians to have a minimum of an associate’s degree. You can pursue an associate’s degree in laboratory science. Some may also pursue a degree in life sciences. Typical classes include math and chemistry and most programs also include biology labs.

What’s it called when you work in a morgue?

A diener is a morgue worker responsible for handling, moving, and cleaning the corpse (though, at some institutions, dieners perform the entire dissection at autopsy). Dieners are also referred to as “morgue attendants”, “autopsy technicians”. A diener performs a number of tasks in medical schools and morgues.

Does pathology require a technical certification?

Pathologists must be certified by the American Board of Pathology (), a member of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).