Sub-Specialisation

Histopathology Trainees must have passed the Part 1 FRCPath examination by the end of Stage B/ST3 to be able to progress to Stage C. 

It is at Stage C (after completing a minimum of two years general histopathology training) where the opportunity to sub-specialise arises. There are many different sub-specialties you can specialise in  such as:

• Cytopathology; The Curriculum for specialty training in histopathology and cytolopathology (2010) - from page 85, gives the aims and objectives, evidence of competence, along with the criteria for training.
• Forensic pathology; Candidates wishing to pursue a career in forensic pathology should do so with a sound background in histopathology, such that they have a satisfactory knowledge of disease mechanisms and systemic pathology, and a more than adequate familiarity with autopsy techniques and microscopy.
• Neuropathology: There is no specific timing for entry to the examination.  The college provides guidance, which apart from the sequence in which the examinations can be sat, is not intended to be prescriptive.   More information can be gathered from the Royal College of Pathologists website - examination section.
• Paediatric pathology;  Trainees must sit the Histopathology Part 1 examination. For futher details on the examination, visit the Royal College of Pathologists website - examination section.