Forensic Pathology and Forensic Anthropology?

Question

What can you tell me about these two careers? What is the difference between them? Does either job require examining dead bodies, or is that just for medical examiners? What is the approximate salary for each career?

Answer 1

These are not always considered separate careers, but job titles that overlap.

In general a Forensic Pathologist is a Doctor of Medicine (MD) who specialized in Anatomical Pathology and them does additional fellowship(s) in Forensics.  He or she could be a Medical Examiner.  One of their main tasks is to perform autopsies or post-mortem examinations to determine the cause of death.

They often examine, and if necessary, take body fluid or tissue samples for conformation of wounds, diseases or drugs found and serve as an expert witness in courts of law.

In general a Forensic Anthropologist can be a Bachelor, Master or Doctorate in Anthropology with suitable training in Forensics.  Doctorates are usually associated with a university and only consult on cases when asked.  Others as used as technicians.  They tend to work with bones and skeleton remains rather than bodies.

Salaries are all over the chart.  Pathologists being paid the most and technicians the least, but the exact amount depends upon the reputation of the individual.

Answer 2

Forensic, IS the equivalent of dead bodies!