How to Become a Coroner

The job of coroner is a fascinating career that carries with it tremendous responsibility. Coroners determine cause of death and enter the cause on death certificates. In cases where cause of death is questionable, the coroner will decide if death was due to homicide, accident, suicide or unknown causes.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

1. Find out about job qualifications for coroner in the area where you want to work. Different levels of preparation will be necessary, depending on where you live. Check with your state government. Coroners are usually appointed to a specific area, such as city or county.

2. Prepare yourself to become a coroner after you find out your requirements. Some states have training courses available. A criminal justice degree can help you become a coroner. Some coroners get a medical or legal degree. Coroners are often doctors or pathologists.

3. Know that the medical and legal worlds often intertwine in the profession of coroner. Coroners are called on to testify in court trials. You will need excellent communication skills. You'll also need to be able to analyze data in order to determine cause of death.

4. Work on establishing your character in the community as you prepare to become a coroner. Honesty, integrity, a good work ethic and reputation among the community are all just as important as your skills or education.

5. Work well as a leader. Coroners must manage the work of others, including doctors and technicians performing autopsies and tests. You must be a problem-solver who can make decisions.