Physicians, Pathologists
O*NET 29-1222.00 · SOC 29-1222
Physician is a solid career choice. Median pay is $312k a year with +4.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 300 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Examine tissue samples under a microscope to diagnose disease
- →Analyze blood and body fluid specimens for abnormalities
- →Issue pathology reports describing findings to treating physicians
- →Perform autopsies to determine cause of death
- →Oversee laboratory staff processing diagnostic specimens
Education & How to Get In
Physician roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as a Physician? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Physician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Physician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Physician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Physicians, Pathologists is projected to grow 4.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Physician make?
The median Physician earns $312k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Physician jobs?
Our model puts Physician at 28 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Physician a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 300 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Physician?
Physician roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Physician?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Physician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes