Candidates must be able to observe close up and from a distance. In a clinical situation, visual skills are essential when using a microscope and when performing the gross examination of tissues in a normal and pathological state. Observation requires visual, auditory, and somatic sensation while being enhanced by the functional use of other sensory modalities. Each student must possess a good sense of visual discrimination, especially as it relates to numbering (specimens, cassettes, tissue blocks, etc.) and differentiating colors which are essential to accurate gross descriptions. Comprehending spatial relationships in three dimensions is also critical in all aspects of the work of a pathologists' assistant.

Each student must possess the functional use of the English language, since all instructions and knowledge-based education is in this format. Oral dictations, hence transcription by a third party, must be comprehensible. Written reports, transcripts, and protocols are commonplace and often times required. All such written documents must be comprehensible. A good solid command of the English language is imperative for these functions to be accomplished.

Each student must possess sufficient fine motor skills and manual dexterity to perform careful, precise and accurate dissections of organs and tissues. A certain degree of motor strength is necessary for autopsy evisceration. Each student must possess the physical capability to lift and/or cause to move cadavers. Sufficient overall motor strength and coordination is required for many aspects of the profession.

All students in the pathologists' assistant program must possess problem-solving abilities and have the intellectual ability to learn, integrate, analyze and synthesize data. The ability to concentrate is essential in maintaining specimen integrity in a very busy work environment such as the autopsy or surgical pathology laboratories.

Consistent and dependable attendance is essential for the didactic and clinical phases of the training. Each student must always possess the necessary alertness to perform efficiently, accurately, and safely in the laboratory. Solid interpersonal skills are necessary in exercising good judgment in a professional and caring way in addition to interacting with professional and hospital staff, university personnel and the general public in a diplomatic manner. Each student must exhibit good personal grooming habits, including personal hygiene and selection of appropriate apparel, to be in accordance with the stated university and hospital policies. Finally, each student must possess the emotional health and stability to deal with death, dead bodies, and body parts, which are an integral part of this training.

Exposures to infectious cases, such as CJD, HIV, TB, Hepatitis B, C, D, and other agents are quite common.

According to OSHA, contact lenses can be a safety hazard, since some degree of chemical exposure (fumes from formalin, xylene, alcohol, etc.) may be a common occurrence. Contact lenses may be a safety threat if chemical or biological splashes occur, since the lens can trap the inciting factor/agent and preclude effective rinsing.

The safety factor in the utilization of scalpels, razor blades, knives and scissors is critical.

Chemical fumes (formalin fixative), latex or talc powder may elicit allergic reactions.