Forensic pathology residency training program.

PGY-6 forensic pathology residency training program overview

  • Program Length: 
    One year
  • Session Dates: 
    July 1 – June 30
  • Program Structure: 
    Series of mandatory and elective rotations as well as weekly didactic sessions
  • Evaluation Methods: 
    Direct Observation, Written and Practice Exams, Resident log book
  • Program Director: 
    Dr Alfredo E Walker
  • Accreditation: 
    Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada
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Program structure

The residency is 13 blocks (12-months) in duration divided into rotations as follows:

  • One block of Transition to Discipline
  • Three blocks of Foundations of Discipline
  • Six blocks of Core of Discipline, including one funded mandatory block at the Provisional Forensic Pathology Unit in Toronto
  • Three blocks of Transition to Practice

Further information regarding the training experiences can be found on the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons website

The program consists of four major educational components:

  • performing autopsies and scene visits
  • observation of autopsies and court testimony
  • academic half-days
  • seminars and special events.

Applying to the program

Applicants to this program must have completed residency training in an RCPSC-accredited program in Diagnostic and Clinical Pathology (General Pathology) or Diagnostic and Molecular Pathology (Anatomical pathology). 

  • Applicants must be either a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident.
  • They must be presently enrolled in a Canadian/American residency program or have finished their residency program  e.g.  Diangostic and Molecular Pathology within the last academic year.