• Department of Pathology
• Duff Medical Building, B wing
• 3775 University Street
• Montreal QC H3A 2B4
• Telephone: 514-398-3045
• Website: mcgill.ca/pathology

Pathology is the specialized study of disease and is therefore one of the most multi-disciplinary fields of research in biomedical science. Courses in Pathology build on prior knowledge of cell and molecular biology and human physiology to examine the causes and consequences of specific diseases. Symptoms and therapies are linked to alterations from the cellular level to effects on the entire body.

Research in Pathology employs experimental techniques common to all areas of modern biology and in return, it contributes beneficial knowledge to many other disciplines. Our scientists collaborate with colleagues in physiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, anatomy, microbiology, and medicine to pursue this goal. We also collaborate with our clinical pathologists who evaluate human tissue samples to diagnose disease. Their contribution can provide a unique advantage in investigating the pathogenesis of disease, and this is particularly encouraged by the Experimental Pathology Unit (EPU) in our department. Various forms of cancer are a major focus within our laboratories due to the high prevalence of cancer in Canada, but research in Pathology targets all forms of disease as well as the study of toxicants and drug-induced disorders.

There are no B.Sc. programs in Pathology, but several undergraduate courses are available. Students from various biomedical science programs are drawn to the study of Pathology because it integrates their knowledge from other courses to provide a deeper understanding of the causes and consequences of diseases—an understanding that is relevant to everyday life as well as to their future career plans. The courses are an excellent preparation for careers in industry, hospitals, universities, government, and education where a knowledge of disease processes can be applied. They also provide a solid background for professional and postgraduate programs in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine, and many areas of advanced research.

Students who are interested in investigating disease at the graduate level can apply for the MSc or the PhD program in Pathology. For more information on Pathology programs, please visit the Department of Pathology website. Undergraduate courses PATH 300 (Human Disease), PATH 396 (Ugrad Research Project), and PATH 504 (Disease in Depth) are considered as courses taught by the Faculty of Science.