University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson Program

The University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson offers an ACGME-accredited one-year Forensic Pathology Fellowship through the Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner (PCOME) in Tucson, AZ. This program is designed to prepare fellows for board certification and provides extensive training in forensic pathology.

The PCOME serves as the primary location for fellowship training and is recognized for its accreditation by the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME). With over 4500 cases reported to the office annually, including approximately 100 homicides, fellows receive valuable hands-on experience in a high-volume environment. The training involves performing between 200 and 250 autopsies under the direct supervision of eight board-certified forensic pathologists, enhancing the fellow's practical skills and knowledge in the field.

In addition to autopsy training, fellows accompany medicolegal death investigators to crime scenes, learning critical techniques for investigation and evidence handling. This immersion is particularly significant given the office's geographical location near the Mexico border, which results in a significant number of migrant death cases. The program's exposure to these unique cases provides fellows with world-renowned expertise in handling unidentified and skeletal remains, complemented by in-house forensic anthropologists who offer additional training in these critical areas.

A distinctive feature of the fellowship is the opportunity for fellows to observe and eventually provide expert testimony in court, involving cases they have personally worked on. This experience is crucial for developing the necessary skills for a successful career in forensic pathology.

Research and Scholarly Activities

Fellows are encouraged to engage in scholarly projects throughout the fellowship year. These projects typically culminate in presentations at scientific meetings or publications in peer-reviewed journals, fostering academic growth and contributing to the field of forensic pathology.

Requirements and Stipend

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must be board eligible or certified in Anatomic Pathology (AP) or Anatomic Pathology/Clinical Pathology (AP/CP). The stipend for the fellowship is commensurate with the level of postgraduate training, ensuring competitive compensation for the fellows.

Application Process

The program currently accepts applications for the 2026-2027 academic year. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Specific details regarding the Forensic Fellowship Match can be found via the program's resources.

Visa Support

The program offers visa sponsorship for international medical graduates, facilitating entry for various visa types necessary for participation in the fellowship program.

Competitiveness

The Forensic Pathology Fellowship at the University of Arizona is considered a highly competitive program. The selection process favors graduates from both allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) backgrounds, as well as international medical graduates (IMGs). The program values diverse training experiences and encourages candidates from various educational backgrounds to apply.