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Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Clinical Pathology: Course, Duration, Syllabus, Fees, Scope

Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Clinical Pathology: Course, Duration, Syllabus, Fees, Scope

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Aug 12, 2025 02:36 PM IST

PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology stands for Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Pathology. The duration of this programme typically ranges from one to two years, depending on the institution offering the course and the structure of the programme. While some programmes offer a demanding one-year curriculum, others may function on a semester or trimester basis.

This Story also Contains
  1. PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology- Highlights
  2. PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Course Eligibility Criteria
  3. PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Admission
  4. Top Entrance Exams for PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology
  5. PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Syllabus
  6. PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Fees
  7. Scope of PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology
  8. Salary after PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology
  9. Top Private PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Colleges in India
  10. Top Govt PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Colleges in India

The PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology is designed to provide uniform and quality training in pathology. Students learn basic concepts, lab techniques, and sample handling. The course covers areas like histology, microbiology, biochemistry, and transfusion medicine, helping students become skilled in laboratory testing and disease diagnosis.

To join a PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology, students need a relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognised university. Graduates can work in hospitals, clinics, diagnostic labs, and colleges. With salaries between Rs. 2 to 8 lakhs per year, this diploma offers good career scope and growth opportunities in healthcare.

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PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology- Highlights

The PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology is a one to two-year programme that covers key areas of pathology, including histology, microbiology, biochemistry, and transfusion medicine. It trains students for careers as pathologists, lab executives, and consultants, offering good opportunities in hospitals, diagnostic centres, and research institutions. Below are the highlights of the PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology course.

Particulars

Values

Course Name

PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology

PGD in Clinical Pathology Course Duration

1-2 Years

PGD in Clinical Pathology Admission Process

Entrance Exam

PGD in Clinical Pathology Entrance Exam

NEET-PG, INI CET

PGD in Clinical Pathology Eligibility Criteria

A bachelor’s degree from a recognised university or its equivalent exam in a relevant field, such as MBBS, BSc Biology, etc.

PGD in Clinical Pathology Average Fees

Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 4.20 Lakhs

PGD in Clinical Pathology Average Salary

Rs. 2 LPA - Rs. 8 LPA

PGD in Clinical Pathology Job Profile

Lab Executive, Forensic Technician, Clinical Manager, Pathologist, Consultants, Dermatopathologist

PGD in Clinical Pathology Top Recruiters

Apollo Hospitals, National Institute of Health, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Food and Drug Administration

PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Course Eligibility Criteria

The PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology is designed for medical graduates who wish to gain advanced knowledge in laboratory diagnostics and pathology practices. The course combines theoretical concepts with practical skills essential for healthcare laboratory settings. Below are the general eligibility criteria.

Particulars

Eligibility Parameters

Educational Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Medicine (MBBS) from a university recognised by the Medical Council of India (MCI) or a State Medical Council

Entrance Examination

Qualifying for NEET PG or other relevant entrance exams, as required by the institution

Registration Requirement

Permanent or provisional registration with MCI or any State Medical Council

Internship Requirement

Completion of a one-year compulsory rotating internship

Aggregate Score Requirements

Minimum of 50 per cent marks in the MBBS programme

Additional Preferences

Relevant work experience in the medical field may be preferred, but is not always mandatory

PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Admission

Admission to the PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology is generally merit-based, though some institutions may conduct entrance examinations. The selection process ensures transparency and fairness in choosing eligible candidates. Below are the general admission steps followed by most institutions.

Step 1: Application Form Submission – Candidates can obtain the application form online from the institution’s official website or directly from the admission office. The form must be filled out accurately with all required academic and personal details.

Step 2: Entrance Examination (If Applicable) – Certain institutions may conduct an entrance exam to assess subject knowledge, aptitude, and problem-solving skills. Candidates must register for the exam and appear on the scheduled date.

Step 3: Merit List Preparation – Based on academic performance, entrance exam results (if applicable), and any additional institutional criteria, a merit list is prepared and published.

Step 4: Counselling Session – Shortlisted candidates are called for counselling, where they are allotted seats according to their merit rank and seat availability in the programme.

Step 5: Admission Confirmation – Candidates allotted seats must complete the admission formalities, including document verification and payment of the admission fee, to confirm enrolment.

Top Entrance Exams for PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology

For admission to the PG Diploma programme in Clinical Pathology, entrance exams are administered by numerous institutions. To be considered for admission, candidates must take the entrance exam and receive a minimum qualifying score. Some of them are mentioned below:

Exam NameConducting BodyExam Pattern

NEET PG

National Board of Examinations (NBE)

NEET PG Exam Pattern

INI-CET

AIIMS, New Delhi

INI-CET Exam Pattern

PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Syllabus

A comprehensive range of topics is covered in the PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology curriculum to give students the information and abilities they need to do well in this sector. In the table below, we have mentioned the PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology syllabus.

PGD in Clinical Pathology First Year Syllabus

The first-year syllabus of the PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology covers core subjects and practical skills essential for laboratory diagnosis. Students gain hands-on experience in pathology, microbiology, haematology, and biochemistry, along with knowledge of transfusion medicine and clinical research regulations, preparing them for professional roles in medical diagnostics and healthcare.

Semester 1Semester 2

Pathology, Microbiology and Serology

Theory and practical training


Chemical Pathology, Transfusion Medicine

Haematology and blood banking


Clinical Biochemistry, Morbid Anatomy

Clinical Research Guidelines and Regulations

PGD in Clinical Pathology Second Year Syllabus

In the second year of the PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology, students focus on advanced clinical research concepts, including trial planning, compliance, and pharmacovigilance. The curriculum emphasises data management, quality assurance, and safety protocols, equipping graduates with the expertise needed to manage clinical studies effectively and ensure adherence to healthcare standards.

Semester 3Semester 4

Clinical Trial Planning and Design

Data Analysis and Management in Clinical Research

Clinical Trial Conduct, Compliance and Quality Assurance

Clinical Research Management

Pharmacovigilance

Basic Safety

PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Fees

The fees of the PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology programme vary throughout universities and are determined by various elements, including location, faculty experience, reputation of the school, and facilities offered. The overall cost of the course often ranges from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 4.20 lakhs.

Scope of PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology

PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology graduates are prepared to take a variety of jobs in the healthcare sector. Opportunities might be available in clinics, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, non-profit organisations, government health agencies, healthcare insurance companies, healthcare consultancy firms, and healthcare technology enterprises.

Graduates with an interest in academia and research can pursue an M.Tech, MBA, PhD or various other courses. Through scholarly research and publications, they can help to advance knowledge and initiate innovation in hospital management practices.

The reach of the PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology programme is international, providing graduates with employment options in a variety of healthcare environments across the globe. Globalisation and the rising demand for healthcare services across borders have led to a demand for qualified healthcare managers who are cross-culturally competent and have a global perspective.

Career Opportunities after PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology

Numerous employment possibilities in the dynamic and quickly changing industry are available to graduates with a PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology. Various employment options accessible to graduates with an average salary are provided below:

Clinical Pathologist - Clinical pathologists employ lab testing on body fluids and tissues to diagnose illnesses. They collaborate with healthcare teams to ensure diagnoses and treatments are correct.

Consultant Pathologist - Consultant pathologists oversee diagnostic pathology services, run labs, and assist with complex cases. They provide high-quality patient care and precise diagnosis in healthcare environments.

Lab Technician - Medical lab technicians gather, prepare, and analyse specimens using specialised tools. They serve an important role in producing reliable test findings, diagnosing diseases, and assisting clinicians with their clinical judgments.

Haematologist - Haematologists are doctors who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of blood problems such as anaemia, leukaemia, and coagulation disorders. They work with other medical professionals to develop personalised treatment strategies that improve patient outcomes.

Top Recruiters

  • Apollo Hospitals
  • National Institute of Health
  • Armed Forces Institute of Pathology
  • Food and Drug Administration
  • All India Institute of Medical Sciences
  • Dr Lal Path Labs
  • Intelligence Bureau
  • Central Bureau of Investigation
  • Asian Institute of Medical Sciences
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Benefits of Studying PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology

Studying a postgraduate diploma in clinical pathology program provides students with a targeted and specialised curriculum that aims to give them advanced knowledge and real-world experience in diagnosing diseases through laboratory analysis.

This PGD course prepares students for fulfilling careers in clinical laboratories, healthcare facilities, and research facilities while offering a thorough understanding of pathological processes and improving critical thinking skills.

Salary after PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology

Candidates after a PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology can be calculated based on the skills possessed by the candidate, the location of the job, and the job profile applied by the candidate. The initial salary will be lower, but as the candidate learns and gains more experience, the salary will also increase. Below are the average salary packages for various job profiles:

Job ProfilesAverage Salary (LPA)

Clinical Pathologist

Rs. 11.1 LPA

Consultant Pathologist

Rs. 15.8 LPA

Lab Technician

Rs. 2.9 LPA

Haematologist

Rs. 23.4 LPA

Source: AmbitionBox, SalaryExpert

Top Private PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Colleges in India

Top private colleges offering PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology in India provide quality education and specialised training to help students excel in the healthcare sector. These institutions equip learners with the skills to handle complex medical cases and apply innovative solutions. Below are a few colleges that offer this course:

Top Govt PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology Colleges in India

Government institutions guarantee strict academic standards, faculty expertise, and industry-relevant curriculum, making them highly sought-after among aspiring professionals. Government colleges offering PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology uphold values of accessibility, affordability, and inclusivity, empowering students from diverse backgrounds to pursue fulfilling careers. These programmes serve as pillars of quality education and professional excellence in the field.

The PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology equips graduates with specialised knowledge and practical skills to excel in the healthcare sector. With its strong career prospects and diverse job roles, it is an excellent choice for those aiming to advance in diagnostic and clinical laboratory services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the duration of the course?

A PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology might last anywhere between one and two years, depending on the institution and the particular programme structure.

2. Can someone without any prior work experience seek a PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology?

Although it's not necessarily required, some organisations can favour applicants with previous work experience.

3. What is the difference between Clinical Pathology and Anatomic Pathology?

Clinical pathology focuses on laboratory analysis of bodily fluids and tissues for diagnosis, while anatomic pathology involves the examination of tissues and organs through autopsy or biopsy to diagnose diseases.

4. What are the job roles available after completing a PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology?

Graduates can work as clinical pathologists, laboratory technicians, research scientists, medical consultants, and in various administrative roles in healthcare settings.

5. Is a PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology recognized internationally?

Yes, PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology from recognized institutions is generally recognized internationally, although specific requirements may vary by country.

6. Can I specialise further after completing a PG Diploma in Clinical Pathology?

Yes, you can pursue further specialisation through advanced courses or certifications in areas such as clinical chemistry, haematology, microbiology, or immunology.

7. What are the research opportunities available in Clinical Pathology?

Clinical pathologists often engage in research projects related to disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. They may work in collaboration with academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies.

8. What are the skills needed to excel in Clinical Pathology?

Apart from technical skills in laboratory analysis, communication skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking are essential for success in clinical pathology.

9. Do students pursuing a postgraduate diploma in clinical pathology have access to any scholarships?

For worthy students, certain organisations and government agencies provide financial aid and scholarships depending on their need for funds or academic achievement. For more information, applicants can get in touch with the relevant organisations.

10. Which clinical pathology trends may we expect in the future?

The discipline of clinical pathology is changing quickly due to advances in technology and molecular diagnosis. Personalised medicine, lab process automation, and artificial intelligence integration for data analysis are among the trends.

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