Program Overview

Subspecialty Residency Training in Forensic Pathology

The University of Manitoba offers a subspecialty residency training program in forensic pathology through the Max Rady College of Medicine.

Program Overview

Manitoba has a centralized, medical examiner death investigation system, with just over 3100 cases investigated by the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in 2021. The Health Sciences Centre and St. Boniface Hospital serve as referral centres for all hospital autopsies in the province and have robust neuropathology consultation services. In total, just over 1800 postmortem examinations were conducted in Manitoba last year, making it one of the largest autopsy services in Canada and providing a rich educational experience for prospective residents.

Department and Accreditation

• Department: Department of Pathology
• Accreditation: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada

Expected Duration

• The program is expected to last 1 year.

Program Details

Program Structure

The residency (PGY6) 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
• Three blocks of Transition to Practice (with one of the blocks being an optional elective block)

Educational Components

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

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Have completed residency training in an RCPSC-accredited program in general pathology or anatomical pathology.
• Be either a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Be presently enrolled in a Canadian/American residency program or have finished their residency program (e.g., anatomical pathology) within the last academic year.

How to Apply

Documents

Applicants must submit the following:

• Current curriculum vitae
• Personal statement of interest to the program
• A copy of specialty certification in either anatomical or general pathology. If the expected date of completion of specialty certification is after the application deadline, please include a letter of good standing from the program director, with the anticipated date of completion.
• Three letters of reference from individuals who have had a meaningful responsibility in the applicant's training.

Dates and Deadlines

• Application deadline: July 1 of postgraduate year 4 (PGY4)
• Interview dates: July/August

Positions may still be open outside of the normal application deadlines.

About the University of Manitoba

The University of Manitoba attracts people from around the world who share its ideals and vision for positive change. It believes in embracing challenges and taking action. The university's students, researchers, and alumni bring their unique voices to learning and discovery, shaping new ways of doing things and contributing to important conversations in topics that matter most.

Max Rady College of Medicine

For over 140 years, the Max Rady College of Medicine has contributed to education, research, and clinical service. Western Canada's first medical school, the College develops qualified medical graduates who distinguish themselves through excellence in clinical care, health system innovation and leadership, and internationally recognized research.