MBBS or BAMS: Which is Better? Eligibility, Fees

MBBS and BAMS are two popular undergraduate degree programmes in medicine and healthcare. MBBS, Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, is a five-and-a-half-year course focused on modern medicine and surgery. BAMS, Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery, is also a five-and-a-half-year programme centred on Ayurveda and traditional health sciences.

In India, MBBS and BAMS are among the most in-demand courses for medical aspirants. While MBBS focuses on modern medical practices, BAMS combines Ayurvedic principles with healthcare. Both offer diverse career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, research, and academics. This article highlights the major differences between the MBBS and BAMS degree programmes.

MBBS vs BAMS - Course Curriculum

The course curriculum of MBBS and BAMS differs in terms of subjects, focus, and approach towards healthcare. MBBS mainly covers modern medical sciences, while BAMS focuses on Ayurvedic principles along with some aspects of modern medicine. Below are the course curricula for both courses.

MBBS

• MBBS degrees cover various medical specialisations to allow students to develop an in-depth understanding of modern ways of treatment and surgeries.
• It addresses topics such as internal medicine, surgery, pathology, biochemistry, pharmacology, anatomy, and physiology.
• Students also participate in hospital internships to have hands-on experience in treating patients using modern medical procedures.

BAMS

• A BAMS degree provides thorough knowledge of 'Ashtanga Ayurveda', which is an ancient Indian medical practice along with scientific advances in modern medicine.
• The BAMS course covers various topics such as yoga, herbal medicine, panchakarma therapy, and ayurvedic principles.
• It also involves contemporary medical sciences such as pharmacology and anatomy, but from an Ayurvedic point of view

MBBS vs BAMS - Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for MBBS and BAMS are quite similar, with both requiring candidates to complete higher secondary education with science subjects. However, specific requirements such as entrance exams and minimum marks may differ between the two courses. Below are the eligibility criteria for both programmes.

• MBBS: Candidates need to pass 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB) and score at least 50 per cent marks. They need to appear for the NEET UG entrance exam to pursue the MBBS course.
• BAMS: The eligibility criteria for the BAMS degree are also similar to an MBBS degree; candidates need to complete their 10+2 in PCB with at least 50 per cent marks and appear for the NEET UG entrance examination.

MBBS vs BAMS - Colleges & Fees

The MBBS course is offered by many government and private colleges in India. In the table below, we have mentioned a few MBBS colleges and their fees.

BAMS is a five to six-year undergraduate course that is offered by various colleges. In the table below, we have mentioned the BAMS colleges and their fees.

MBBS vs BAMS - Career Options

Graduates of MBBS and BAMS can explore rewarding roles across hospitals, clinics, research centres, and teaching institutions. MBBS degree holders often work in specialised medical fields, whereas BAMS graduates contribute to Ayurveda practice, wellness centres, and integrative healthcare. Below are some top career options for both degrees.

MBBS

• Career Options: Doctors, Medical Officers, Paediatricians, General Physicians, Surgeons
• Employment Areas: Hospitals, Healthcare facilities, Universities, Individual Practice
• Salary: The starting MBBS salary is Rs. 5 LPA to Rs. 13 LPA; this can increase based on experience and further degrees.

BAMS

• Career Options: Pharmacist, Surgeon, Dietician, Gynaecologist, Teacher, Panchkarma Practitioner
• Employment Areas: Hospitals, Healthcare facilities, Universities, Pharmaceutical companies
• Salary: The starting salary of BAMS graduates is Rs. 3 LPA to Rs. 6 LPA, although after a few years of experience, they can earn up to Rs. 10 LPA.

Conclusion

Students can choose between MBBS and BAMS depending on their interests and career goals. MBBS is ideal for those interested in modern medicine and specialisations like surgery or cardiology, while BAMS suits candidates inclined towards Ayurveda and natural therapies. Both courses provide rewarding career opportunities in the healthcare sector.