PhD in Pathology: Admission 2025, Colleges, Fees, Syllabus, Eligibility

• Updated on  16 Aug, 2025 by Kirti Mehendiratta

Ph D Pathology is a doctorate level research program for a period of 3 to 5 years, depending on research progress. The course aims to provide a deep understanding of Biochemistry and Immunology, Disease Pathogenesis, Cell and Molecular Biology, and Diagnostic Methods.

 

To be eligible for a PhD in Pathology, candidates must have a master's degree in a related field with 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.

 

Table of Contents
  1. PhD in Pathology Highlights
  2. What is a PhD in Pathology?
  3. Why Study a PhD in Pathology?
  4. Who Should Pursue a PhD in Pathology?
  5. PhD in Pathology Eligibility Criteria
  6. PhD in Pathology Entrance Exams
  7. PhD in Pathology Top Colleges in India
  8. PhD in Pathology Admission Process 2025
  9. PhD in Pathology Syllabus
  10. Phd in Pathology Vs PhD in Microbiology Course Comparison
  11. PhD in Pathology Jobs
  12. PhD in Pathology FAQs

 

PhD in Pathology 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.

 

Who Should Pursue a PhD in Pathology?

Given below are some of points on who should pursue a Ph.D in Pathology. Let’s have a look at them:

  • Individuals who want to deeply study the causes, development, and effects of various diseases.
  • Medical or life science graduates aiming for research careers in disease diagnosis, prevention, or treatment.
  • Professionals seeking to work in advanced diagnostic labs, biomedical research institutions, or pharmaceutical companies.
  • Those interested in contributing to medical innovations and developing new diagnostic tools or therapies.
  • People who wish to teach pathology or related subjects at universities and medical colleges.

 

PhD in Pathology Eligibility Criteria

Students should have the following eligibility to take admission in a doctorate in pathology :

  • The candidate must have completed a postgraduate degree MSc/MD in Pathology or equivalent in Pathology or related fields such as Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or Life Sciences from a recognized university.
  • A minimum of 55% aggregate marks (or equivalent CGPA) in the qualifying examination is generally required. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/PWD categories may be eligible for a relaxation of up to 5%.
  • Applicants holding an MBBS degree with relevant postgraduate qualifications may also be considered, depending on the institution’s requirements.
  • Many universities require candidates to qualify in national or university-level entrance examinations such as UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, ICMR-JRF, or equivalent

 

PhD in Pathology Entrance Exams

Some of the popular entrance exams for a Doctorate in Pathology include CSIR-NET, UGC-NET, and GATE.

Entrances

Application Date

Exam Date

Application Fees

UGC NET 2026

April - May 2026

June 2026

General: INR 1,150

 

OBC-NCL/EWS: INR 600

 

SC/ST/PWD: INR 325

GATE 2026

September 2025

February 2026

Female/SC/ST/PWD Candidates Registration Fee: INR 900

 

INR 1800 for all candidates, including foreign nationals

 

Extended registration period with late fee (INR 1400, INR 2300)

CSIR NET 2026

June 2026

July 2026

General/EWS: INR 1150

 

OBC-NCL: INR 600

 

SC/ST/PWD: INR 325

 

PhD in Pathology Top Colleges in India

Some of the top colleges for the doctorate in pathology, based on the NIRF Ranking 2024, are as follows:

College Name

City, State

NIRF Ranking 2024 (Medical)

AIIMS Delhi

New Delhi

1 (Medical)

 

7 (Overall)

SRM Institute of Science & Technology

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

13 (Engineering)

Aligarh Muslim University

Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh

16 (Overall)

 

8 (University)

St. John’s Medical College

Bengaluru, Karnataka

28 (Medical)

Sharda University (School of Medical Science and Research)

Noida

86 (University)

BLDE Deemed to be a university

Vijaypura

-

 

PhD in Pathology Admission Process 2025

The admission to the Ph.D in Pathology program is based on the entrance exam qualification of the candidate. Student need to have a valid entrance exam scores in exams likek UGC NET/CSIR NET/GATE etc.

 

Given below is a step by step admission process for the PhD in Pathology in Sharda University for your reference:

 

Step 1: Start by visiting the official website of the Sharda University. Student need to apply online. Students can visit this link to directly apply for the course “https://smsr.sharda.ac.in/courses/phd-in-pathology#eligibility-criteria”

 

Step 2: Student need to give online entrance examination conducted by Sharda University. Students will be exempted from the entrance if they have a valid entrance exam score from either of these NET/GATE/SET/UET. M Phil holders will also be exempted from the entrance. If not, student need to give the online entrance test of the Sharda University.

 

Step 3: Click on Apply Now, website will redirect you to the admission page. Fill out your required details and your score in entrance exams. Students also need to attach the valid certificates.

 

Step 4: Now, submit online application and pay the application fee. Once your candidature is transferred to the university. They’ll shortlist the candidate based on their entrance exam scores, if you have valid entrance exam scores, you’ll be given preference.

 

Step 5: After getting shortlisted, the university will contact you for topic submission, and a personal round of interview.

 

Step 6: After getting shortlisted in the interview, students will be finally selected and will be given admission.

 

PhD in Pathology Syllabus

For your reference, given below are the modules which the student will be focusing on, in the program.

 

The Ph D Pathology syllabus mentioned below is a reference taken from the Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences.

General Pathology

Normal cell and tissue structure and function.

The changes in cellular structure and function in disease.

Causes of disease and its pathogenesis.

Reaction of cells, tissues, organ systems and the body as a whole to various

 

sublethal and lethal injuries

Systemic Pathology

Normal structure and function of various organ systems

Etiopathogenesis, gross features and microscopic alterations of structure of

 

these organ systems in disease and functional correlation with clinical

 

features

Histogenetic and pathophysiologic process associated with various lesions

Hematopathology

Principles of the practice of haematology for the planning of tests, interpretation and diagnosis of diseases of the blood and bone marrow.

Various eqipments used in haematology

Automation and quality assurance in Haematology

Transfusion Medicine And Chemical Pathology

ABO, Rh blood groups and its significance.

Blood component therapy.

Transfusion therapy including the use of whole blood and RBC concentrates

Rationale of pre transfusion testing

Adverse reactions to transfusion of blood and components

Quality control in Blood Bank

Renal Function Test

Liver function test

Pancreatic function test

 

Phd in Pathology Vs PhD in Microbiology Course Comparison

Given below is the detailed course comparison for the PhD in Pathology Vs PhD in Microbiology course for the students:

Aspect

PhD in Pathology

PhD in Microbiology

Focus Area

Study of diseases, their causes, mechanisms, diagnosis, and effects on the human body.

Study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and their role in health, disease, and the environment.

Eligibility

Master’s degree in Pathology, Life Sciences, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or MBBS with relevant specialization.

Master’s degree in Microbiology, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or related fields.

Key Subjects

Cellular pathology, histopathology, molecular diagnostics, clinical pathology, immunopathology.

Microbial genetics, virology, immunology, microbial biotechnology, pathogenesis.

Career Roles

Pathologist, Clinical Research Scientist, Medical Lab Director, Forensic Pathologist, Academic Researcher.

Microbiologist, Virologist, Clinical Microbiologist, Food Safety Scientist, Research Scientist.

Experience Required for Senior Roles

3–5 years of postdoctoral or lab research experience.

3–5 years of lab research or industry experience.

Average Salary Range (India)

INR 6 LPA – 12 LPA

INR 5 LPA – 10 LPA

Top Recruiters

AIIMS, Apollo Hospitals, Dr. Lal PathLabs, ICMR, Fortis Healthcare.

Biocon, Serum Institute of India, ICMR, National Institute of Virology, CIPLA.

 

PhD in Pathology Jobs

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.

Explore Other Popular Ph.D. in Pathology Colleges

Exam Accepting

Online|
PG|
IITs and IISc|
Engineering
Exam1 Feb, 2025
Result19 Mar, 2025
Online|
PG|
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)|
Management
Exam30 Nov, 2025
Result19 Dec, 2025
Online|
PG|
Xavier Labour Relations Institute|
Management
Exam5 Jan, 2025
Result17 Jan, 2025
Online|
PG|
Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies|
Management
Exam5 Nov, 2025 - 23 Dec, 2025
Result5 Nov, 2025 - 24 Dec, 2025
Online|
UG|
Consortium of National Law Universities|
Law
Exam1 Dec, 2024
Result17 May, 2025
Online|
PG|
Government of Odisha|
Management
Exam-
Result6 Jun, 2025
Online|
PG|
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay)|
Design
Exam19 Jan, 2025
Result5 Mar, 2025
Online|
PG|
National Testing Agency
Exam7 Sept, 2024 - 9 Sept, 2024
Result22 Feb, 2025
Online|
PG|
CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research)
Exam25 Jul, 2024 - 27 Jul, 2024
Result12 Sept, 2024
Online/Offline|
UG|
All India Management Association (AIMA)
Exam-
Result

Explore Popular Ph.D. Courses

Loading exam list...

Students learning mobile

Your opinion matters to us!

Rate your experience using this page so far.