Courses & Resources for Histopathologists

Histopathology training is typically 5 years (ST1–ST5), entered after Foundation training. Trainees gain experience across general and subspecialty histopathology, cytopathology, and autopsy pathology. The programme leads to a CCT in Histopathology.

The FRCPath (Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists) is the key exam, taken in two parts. Part 1 covers general pathology and is taken during early training. Part 2 focuses on subspecialty histopathology and diagnostic skills, taken in later training years.

Histopathology has become more competitive in recent years. The 2025 ST1 competition ratio was 9.47:1, a significant increase from previous cycles. A genuine interest in pathology, relevant audit/research, and any pathology-related experience (e.g. taster weeks) help applications.

Useful resources include FRCPath revision courses, digital pathology workshops, slide review sessions, autopsy technique courses, and subspecialty reporting courses. Online question banks and virtual microscopy platforms are increasingly popular.