Benefits of membership

The Royal College of Pathologists is a professional membership organisation with charitable status, concerned with all matters relating to the science and practice of pathology. It is a body of its fellows, diplomates, affiliates and trainees, supported by the staff who are based at the College's London offices.

Fellowship of the College is a widely respected indicator of specialist status and evidence of a commitment to high professional standards in the science and practice of pathology. Belonging to the College strengthens its ability to act on behalf of all pathologists.

Membership benefits vary by membership type, such as use of post-nominals or taking part in College elections and roles. The full range of benefits are listed below.

We support all members through the delivery of high-quality member services

Recognising your professionalism

  • Receive a membership certificate
  • Use of post-nominals, including FRCPath and DipRCPath
  • Benefit from voting rights
  • Listed on our professional register
  • Invitation to an admissions ceremony
  • Eligible for tax relief on annual subscriptions

Supporting your continuing professional development (CPD)

Professional guidance at your fingertips

Benefit from a range of professional guidance to help you deliver the highest level of care, including:

College publications

You can stay up to date on developments in pathology and access a range of publications from the College, including:

Related services include:

Events and webinars

Members can access our growing programme of events and webinars.

  • Discounted access to a range of events and webinars
  • Access to regional surgeries
  • Attend our annual dinner
  • Attend our medical examiner annual conference

We develop and maintain high standards of education, training and research across all pathology specialties

Professionalism

Voting members can help shape the work of the College.

Curricula and certifications

The College services the future of the pathology profession through:

  • Delivery of up-to-date regulated curricula
  • Training standards/guidance
  • Recommend award of Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) and Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR)
  • Guidance on trainees' Annual Review of Competence Progression
  • New trainee welcome day/resources
  • Undergraduate and foundation resources
  • Foundation doctor taster scheme
  • Medical elective small grant scheme
  • Our pathology summer school
  • Careers advice
  • Recognition for Totum Pro card (NUS)

Examinations

The College provides internationally recognised exams.

  • We deliver a range of examinations, by specialty
  • Provide guidance and advice on College examinations
  • Offer feedback on examination performance and appeals service
  • Offer workplace-based assessments, and guidance and advice
  • Provide educational resources through our Pathology Portal

Research

Members can contribute to the work of the College and support the profession.

We promote excellence and advance knowledge in pathology

Representation of the profession

Members can represent the College and are eligibe to apply for our award and bursary schemes.

Workforce support

Members benefit from the College's workforce and workload planning. This includes:

International support

The College has a dedicated International team who provides a range of services for our international members, which include:

We increase the College’s influence through a clear, coherent, professional voice

Publications

Members can contribute to the College and share their expertise and work.

Professional engagement

The College works for the collective voice of its members by engaging with:

  • UK government consultations
  • National Institue for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) consultations
  • Governmental bodies and organisations
  • Non-departmental government bodies
  • External medical profession bodies/agencies

The College also conducts an annual workforce survey and produces workforce data and reports.

Public engagement

The College celebrates and promotes pathology and the contribution pathologists make to healthcare. Members can access a range of resources.

 

Please use the links below to find out more about becoming a member of the College.

Membership types and how to apply

Membership subscription fees

Tax relief for your membership subscription

 

You can also contact the Membership team by email or by calling 0207 451 6756 / 0207 451 6750 if you have any questions. We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you to the College.