International students apply for medical courses in huge numbers each year, and the variety of specialisations in health studies continues to grow. Pathology studies is one specialisation in huge demand due to recent advances in medical science. Pathology studies deal with the cause and effect of a disease or injury, mechanisms of development, alteration of cells, and after-effects of changes.
UK universities provide a supportive yet intellectually demanding environment for Indian students that helps develop their research skills and enhance their subject knowledge. Institutes provide excellent facilities, supervision and training opportunities to prepare students to excel in this field. Once they graduate, students are prepared to play a critical role in advancing medicine and devising new techniques and treatments to fight viruses, infections and fatal diseases such as HIV and Cancer.
Learn more about leading pathology courses in the UK below. You can arrange a free consultation with SI-UK today to begin your UK university application.
Five Great Pathology-related Courses in the UK
Below is a list of five universities in the UK for studying pathology-related courses.
1. University College London
UCL’s Department of Pathology, part of the Division of Cancer Medicine, operates within the Royal Free and University College Medical School. It offers diagnostic Histopathology and Cytopathology services to clinicians and general practitioners. It is one of five research departments within the Cancer Institute, focusing on sarcoma genetics, thoracic pathology, molecular pathology, computational cancer biology, hematopathology, gynecologic pathology, digital pathology, and gastrointestinal pathology.
The Pathology MPhil course promotes joint research, providing access to specialist facilities such as the pathology core facility and software packages. It emphasises skill development through training programmes and offers a unique environment bridging basic research, translational medicine, and clinical applications.
- Suggested course: Pathology MPhil/PhD
- Entry requirements: A minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline and evidence of recent academic activities or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
- International fee: £34,400
2. University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh Pathology encompasses diverse research interests, including human cancer biology, inflammation, neuropathological disorders, and animal disease models. Its academic staff are integral to various centres within the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, highlighting pathology's role in translational medicine. Close ties with hospitals in Edinburgh facilitate applied clinical studies.
The department has a strong NHS histopathology service at the Royal Infirmary Edinburgh and Western General Hospital. Its state-of-the-art facilities support molecular and cell biology research. Students benefit from registration with a research centre, training in transferable skills, and mentorship from supervisors, which encourages a thorough research experience.
- Suggested course: PhD Pathology
- Entry requirements: UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent.
- International fee: £31,500
3. University of Bristol
The BSc Virology and Immunology programme at the University of Bristol offers a broad understanding of viruses, immunity, and related diseases. The curriculum covers foundational biomedical science in the initial years, followed by in-depth studies on the immune system's role in infection control and autoimmune disorders.
The final year covers biology, molecular aspects, immunology, and epidemiology of major viral diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and coronaviruses, including emerging threats like SARS-CoV-2 and Ebola. Students engage with cutting-edge topics in vaccine production and typically undertake research projects in either virology or immunology. The programme emphasises practical skills, employability, and enterprise in biomedical research.
- Suggested course: BSc Virology and Immunology
- Entry requirements: A-level: AAB including Chemistry and another core science/mathematics subject. IB diploma: 34 points overall, with 17 at the higher level.
- International fee: £31,300
4. University of Manchester
Manchester's MSc Molecular Pathology of Cancer programme offers specialised tissue sample analysis training, crucial for translational medicine. It connects students with a network of MRC and EPSRC-funded Molecular Pathology nodes, enhancing opportunities in the field. The flexible, blended learning format accommodates diverse learners, including medical students, biomedical scientists, practitioners, and trainee pathologists, addressing the shortage of trained professionals in molecular pathology.
Supported by the Medical Research Council and Royal College of Pathologists, the course aligns with career needs, focusing on cancer prevention and early detection research. Thus, it caters to a broad array of aspiring professionals and researchers.
- Suggested course: MSc Molecular Pathology of Cancer
- Entry requirements: An undergraduate degree (normally an Upper Second) or overseas equivalent in a relevant biomedical subject, including medicine and nursing.
- International fee: £32,000
5. University of Glasgow
The honours degree in immunology at the University of Glasgow is one of the few programmes in the UK solely dedicated to this field for two years, taught by internationally recognised experts. With over 40 years of history, it offers unparalleled depth in immunological studies, including residential study trips and extensive laboratory experiences.
The programme is known for its high satisfaction rates and opportunities for MSci placements, ensuring a well-rounded education. Years 1 and 2 provide a solid foundation in biology, while honours years explore advanced immunological concepts and hands-on research projects. The curriculum's flexibility allows students to tailor their studies to their interests, making it an ideal choice for aspiring immunologists.
- Suggested course: Immunology BSc (Hons)
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 34 (6,5,5). A-level: AAB – BBB, with Biology or Chemistry subject.
- International fee: £30,240
Study Pathology in the UK
If you are interested in studying pathology in the UK and want to learn more about universities and the application process, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
I sincerely thank SI-UK for getting me accepted to UCL. The MSc in Urban Development and Planning is extremely competitive, but the right guidance provided by SI-UK made my dream of studying at University College London a reality. The services were exceptional from beginning to end. 
