MBBS vs BAMS vs BHMS: MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery), BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery), and BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery) are 3 medical courses that provide a range of options for individuals seeking a career in healthcare. Each program follows a distinct approach to medicine, with its own unique philosophies and practices. Understanding the differences between MBBS, BAMS, and BHMS is essential for individuals to make informed decisions regarding their educational and professional journeys in the medical field.
MBBS is a well-known and traditional medical degree that focuses on the modern allopathic approach to healthcare. It equips students with comprehensive knowledge of medical sciences, including subjects like anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and pathology. MBBS graduates pursue various specializations and can work in diverse clinical settings such as hospitals, clinics, research institutes, and public health organizations.
BAMS, on the other hand, revolves around Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient holistic healing system originating from India. BAMS education emphasizes the principles and practices of Ayurveda, incorporating herbal medicine, dietary interventions, yoga, and other natural therapies. BAMS graduates gain expertise in diagnosing and treating illnesses using Ayurvedic principles and can work as Ayurvedic practitioners in specialized clinics, wellness centers, and Ayurvedic hospitals.
BHMS is centered around homeopathic medicine, an alternative system of medicine based on the principle of “like cures like.” BHMS students learn about the theory and practice of homeopathy, which involves using highly diluted substances to stimulate the body’s self-healing abilities. BHMS graduates can establish their own homeopathic clinics or work alongside other healthcare professionals, providing homeopathic treatments for various ailments.
Although MBBS, BAMS, and BHMS differ in their philosophies and approaches to medicine, all three programs share a common objective of improving human health and well-being. The educational pathways, scope of practice, and career opportunities associated with each degree program vary, offering individuals distinct avenues to contribute to the healthcare industry.
Highlights
| Aspect | MBBS | BAMS | BHMS |
| Degree | Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery | Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery | Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery |
| Approach | Allopathic (Modern Medicine) | Ayurvedic (Ancient Holistic Medicine) | Homeopathic (Alternative Medicine) |
| Philosophy | Evidence-based, scientific | Holistic, natural, balance of body and mind | Similia similibus curentur (Like cures like) |
| Educational Path | Traditional medical education | Ayurvedic principles and practices | Homeopathic principles and practices |
| Scope of Practice | Broad range of clinical settings | Ayurvedic clinics, wellness centers | Homeopathic clinics, alongside healthcare professionals |
| Specializations | Various medical specialties | Ayurvedic specialties | Homeopathic specialties |
| Career Options | Medical practitioner, specialist, researcher | Ayurvedic practitioner, Ayurvedic consultant | Homeopathic practitioner, homeopathic consultant |
Why Choose MBBS?
Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) is an undergraduate-level degree that prepares individuals to treat problems such as colds, coughs, stomach aches, bruises, and so on. They can begin their practise and begin treating people. Graduates of the MBBS programme can go on to pursue MS or MD degrees with specializations in cardiology, neurology, gynaecology, endocrinology, immunology, radiology, and psychiatry. Graduates can expect to find work in fields such as private and public hospitals. These graduates are also in high demand in sports medicine, health research journalism, hospital administration, medical academics, public health policy-making, and other fields.
Why Choose BAMS?
BAMS is an abbreviation for Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery. It is an undergraduate degree programme that prepares students for careers in Ayurveda and Ayurvedic medicine. The BAMS programme lasts 5.5 years, including a one-year mandatory internship. BAMS job prospects are gradually expanding as people prefer to contact ayurveda doctors over allopathic doctors. Ayurvedic doctors, lecturers, physicians, research assistants, scientists, and therapists are all options for BAMS graduates.
Why Choose BHMS?
BHMS, Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine and Surgery is an undergraduate degree programme that prepares candidates in homoeopathy and homoeopathy. The BHMS programme lasts 5.5 years, with a one-year internship required. Homoeopathy is a medical alternative technique in which patients are treated by administering greatly diluted medications. Graduates of the BHMS program can work as instructors, homoeopathy doctors, pharmacists, medical representatives, public health professionals, and so on.
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS vs BAMS vs BHMS
MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery)
| Eligibility Criteria | MBBS |
| Educational Qualification | Must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) stream. |
| Minimum Aggregate Percentage | Varies depending on the institute, typically ranging from 50% to 60%. |
| Entrance Exams | NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) |
| Age Limit | Minimum age limit usually 17-18 years at the time of admission. |
| Additional Requirements | Some institutes may have additional entrance exams or interviews. |
BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery)
| Eligibility Criteria | BAMS |
| Educational Qualification | Must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) stream. |
| Minimum Aggregate Percentage | Varies depending on the institute, typically ranging from 50% to 60%. |
| Entrance Exams | NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) |
| Age Limit | Minimum age limit usually 17-18 years at the time of admission. |
| Additional Requirements | Some states may have specific state-level entrance exams. |
BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery)
| Eligibility Criteria | BHMS |
| Educational Qualification | Must have completed 10+2 or equivalent with Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) stream. |
| Minimum Aggregate Percentage | Varies depending on the institute, typically ranging from 45% to 60%. |
| Entrance Exams | NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) |
| Age Limit | Minimum age limit usually 17-18 years at the time of admission. |
| Additional Requirements | Some states or institutes may conduct separate entrance exams. |
Syllabus for MBBS vs BAMS vs BHMS
MBBS Syllabus
| Subject | Topics Covered |
| Anatomy | Gross anatomy, Histology, Embryology, Neuroanatomy, Clinical anatomy, Radiological anatomy, Applied anatomy |
| Physiology | Cell physiology, Systems physiology, Pathophysiology, Applied physiology |
| Biochemistry | Biomolecules, Enzymes, Metabolism, Molecular biology, Clinical biochemistry |
| Pharmacology | General pharmacology, Autonomic pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Chemotherapy, Toxicology, Clinical pharmacology |
| Pathology | General pathology, Systemic pathology, Clinical pathology, Hematology, Microbiology |
| Microbiology | Bacteriology, Virology, Mycology, Parasitology, Immunology |
| Forensic Medicine | Medicolegal aspects, Forensic pathology, Forensic toxicology, Forensic psychiatry, Forensic genetics |
| Community Medicine | Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Occupational health, Environmental health, Health systems, Health programs |
| Medicine and its Specialties | General medicine, Cardiology, Neurology, Endocrinology, Nephrology, Pulmonology, Gastroenterology, Rheumatology |
| Surgery and its Specialties | General surgery, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology, Otorhinolaryngology, Urology, Plastic surgery, Anesthesiology |
| Obstetrics and Gynecology | Obstetrics, Gynecology, Family planning, Neonatology, Reproductive health |
| Pediatrics | General pediatrics, Neonatology, Pediatric cardiology, Pediatric neurology, Pediatric gastroenterology |
| Psychiatry | General psychiatry, Child and adolescent psychiatry, Geriatric psychiatry |
| Radiology and Imaging | Diagnostic radiology, Interventional radiology, Nuclear medicine, Radiotherapy |
| Emergency Medicine | Trauma management, Cardiac emergencies, Medical emergencies, Surgical emergencies |
| Research Methodology and Medical Ethics | Research methods, Biostatistics, Ethical principles and regulations in medical research |
BAMS Syllabus
| Subject | Topics Covered |
| Padartha Vigyan (Ayurvedic Philosophy and Basic Principles) | Ayurveda principles, History of Ayurveda, Basic concepts of Ayurvedic philosophy, Fundamental principles of Ayurveda, Panchamahabhoota Siddhanta (Theory of five elements) |
| Sanskrit | Sanskrit language, Grammar, Vocabulary, Translation |
| Rachana Sharir (Anatomy) | Gross anatomy, Microscopic anatomy, Embryology, Applied anatomy |
| Kriya Sharir (Physiology) | Principles of physiology, Physiology of various systems, Applied physiology |
| Dravya Guna Vigyan (Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy) | Ayurvedic pharmacology, Pharmacognosy, Medicinal plants, Herbal preparations |
| Rasa Shastra (Mineralogy and Alchemy) | Ayurvedic alchemy, Mineralogy, Preparation of Ayurvedic medicines |
| Rog Nidan (Pathology) | Ayurvedic pathology, Diagnostic procedures, Ayurvedic diagnostics |
| Swasthavritta (Preventive Medicine and Yoga) | Social and preventive medicine, Yoga and its applications |
| Agad Tantra (Toxicology and Forensic Medicine) | Toxicology, Forensic medicine |
| Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga (Obstetrics and Gynecology) | Obstetrics, Gynecology |
| Kaumarbhritya (Pediatrics) | Pediatrics, Neonatology |
| Kayachikitsa (General Medicine) | Ayurvedic medicine, Diagnosis, Treatment |
| Shalya Tantra (General Surgery) | Ayurvedic surgery, Surgical techniques, Procedures |
| Shalakya Tantra (Ophthalmology and ENT) | Ayurvedic ophthalmology, Ayurvedic ENT |
| Panchakarma and Manasa Roga (Detoxification and Psychiatry) | Panchakarma procedures, Ayurvedic psychiatry |
| Research Methodology and Medical Ethics | Research methods, Ethical principles and regulations in Ayurvedic research |
BHMS Syllabus
| Subject | Topics Covered |
| Anatomy | Gross anatomy, Histology, Embryology, Neuroanatomy |
| Physiology | Cell physiology, Systems physiology, Pathophysiology |
| Organon of Medicine and Principles of Homeopathy | Principles of homeopathy, Philosophy, Materia Medica, Homeopathic repertory |
| Homeopathic Pharmacy | Principles and preparation of homeopathic medicines |
| Pathology | General pathology, Systemic pathology, Clinical pathology, Homoeopathic pathology |
| Forensic Medicine | Medicolegal aspects, Forensic pathology, Forensic toxicology |
| Obstetrics and Gynecology | Obstetrics, Gynecology |
| Surgery | General surgery, Homoeopathic surgery |
| Practice of Medicine | General medicine, Homoeopathic therapeutics, Case-taking, Diagnosis, Disease management |
| Community Medicine | Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Occupational health, Environmental health, Health programs |
| Repertory | Principles of repertory, Repertorization techniques, Repertory rubrics |
| Materia Medica | Study of homeopathic medicines, Drug provings, Drug relationships, Drug classifications |
| Organ-specific Homoeopathic Therapeutics | Homeopathic therapeutics for various systems and organs |
| Pediatrics | Pediatrics, Neonatology |
| Psychiatry | General psychiatry, Homeopathic psychiatry |
| Research Methodology and Medical Ethics | Research methods, Ethical principles and regulations in homeopathic research |
Job Profile Details For MBBS vs BAMS vs BHMS
Job Profiles for MBBS:
- General Practitioner: MBBS graduates work as doctors who provide basic medical care to patients. They diagnose and treat different illnesses, prescribe medications, and offer preventive care.
- Specialized Physician: MBBS graduates can specialize in specific areas like cardiology or pediatrics. They receive further training and provide specialized medical care in their chosen field.
- Surgeon: MBBS graduates can become surgeons and perform operations to treat various medical conditions and injuries.
- Medical Researcher: MBBS graduates can conduct medical research to advance knowledge and develop new treatments. They analyze data and contribute to scientific publications.
- Medical Officer in Hospitals: MBBS graduates work as doctors in hospitals, providing medical care to patients, managing emergencies, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
Job Profiles for BAMS:
- Ayurvedic Doctor: BAMS graduates practice traditional Ayurvedic medicine. They diagnose illnesses, recommend Ayurvedic treatments, and provide lifestyle advice for holistic healing.
- Ayurvedic Consultant: BAMS graduates work as consultants, offering personalized wellness programs, conducting health assessments, and recommending Ayurvedic therapies.
- Ayurvedic Researcher: BAMS graduates contribute to the development of Ayurvedic treatments through research, clinical trials, and exploring the scientific aspects of Ayurveda.
- Ayurvedic Pharmacist: BAMS graduates work in Ayurvedic pharmacies, preparing and dispensing herbal medications and ensuring their quality and safety.
Job Profiles for BHMS:
- Homeopathic Doctor: BHMS graduates practice homeopathy, providing holistic treatment using natural remedies. They diagnose patients and prescribe homeopathic medicines.
- Homeopathic Consultant: BHMS graduates work as consultants in homeopathic clinics, offering personalized treatment plans and managing chronic conditions.
- Researcher in Homeopathy: BHMS graduates contribute to homeopathic research by conducting studies, analyzing data, and exploring the scientific basis of homeopathy.
- Homeopathic Pharmacist: BHMS graduates work in homeopathic pharmacies, ensuring the quality and appropriate use of homeopathic remedies.
Average Salary for MBBS vs BAMS vs BHMS
Average Salary Range after MBBS
| Job Profile | Average Salary Range |
| General Practitioner | ₹50,00,000 – ₹1,00,00,000 per year |
| Specialized Physician | ₹70,00,000 – ₹2,00,00,000 per year |
| Surgeon | ₹1,00,00,000 – ₹3,50,00,000 per year |
| Medical Researcher | ₹40,00,000 – ₹1,00,00,000 per year |
| Medical Officer in Hospitals | ₹50,00,000 – ₹90,00,000 per year |
Average Salary Range after BAMS
| Job Profile | Average Salary Range |
| Ayurvedic Doctor | ₹30,00,000 – ₹80,00,000 per year |
| Ayurvedic Consultant | ₹35,00,000 – ₹90,00,000 per year |
| Ayurvedic Researcher | ₹40,00,000 – ₹70,00,000 per year |
| Ayurvedic Pharmacist | ₹20,00,000 – ₹50,00,000 per year |
Average Salary Range after BHMS
| Job Profile | Average Salary Range |
| Homeopathic Doctor | ₹20,00,000 – ₹60,00,000 per year |
| Homeopathic Consultant | ₹25,00,000 – ₹70,00,000 per year |
Frequently Asked Questions
What sets MBBS, BAMS, and BHMS apart from each other?
MBBS focuses on modern medicine and surgery, while BAMS emphasizes traditional Ayurvedic medicine, and BHMS centers around homeopathic principles and treatments.
Which degree, MBBS, BAMS, or BHMS, offers better career prospects?
MBBS generally provides broader career opportunities due to its wide acceptance in the field of modern medicine. BAMS and BHMS graduates typically find employment primarily within their respective traditional medicine systems, Ayurveda and homeopathy, which may have more limited job prospects compared to MBBS.
What are the eligibility requirements for MBBS, BAMS, and BHMS?
Eligibility criteria may vary by country and institution. Generally, candidates must complete 10+2 schooling with Science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) and pass relevant medical entrance exams to pursue MBBS, BAMS, or BHMS.
How long does it take to complete MBBS, BAMS, and BHMS?
MBBS typically takes around 5-6 years, including a one-year internship. BAMS and BHMS programs usually span 4.5-5.5 years, including an internship period.
Can graduates of MBBS, BAMS, or BHMS pursue postgraduate studies?
Yes, all three degrees offer opportunities for postgraduate studies. MBBS graduates can pursue specializations and higher degrees (MD/MS) in various medical fields. BAMS graduates can pursue MD (Ayurveda) or other postgraduate courses in Ayurveda, while BHMS graduates can pursue MD (Homeopathy) or other postgraduate courses in homeopathy.
Are MBBS, BAMS, and BHMS degrees recognized worldwide?
MBBS is generally recognized globally due to its alignment with the allopathic medical system. However, recognition of BAMS and BHMS degrees may be limited outside countries where Ayurveda and homeopathy are widely practiced. Recognition can vary depending on country-specific regulations.
What are the typical job roles for MBBS, BAMS, and BHMS graduates?
MBBS graduates can work as general practitioners, specialized physicians, surgeons, medical researchers, or medical officers in hospitals. BAMS graduates can pursue careers as Ayurvedic doctors, consultants, researchers, or pharmacists within the Ayurvedic field. BHMS graduates can work as homeopathic doctors, consultants, researchers, or pharmacists within the homeopathic field.
Can BAMS or BHMS graduates practice modern medicine or allopathic treatments?
No, BAMS and BHMS graduates are not authorized to practice modern medicine or allopathic treatments unless they have additional qualifications or licenses that permit them to do so. Their primary training lies within their respective traditional medicine systems, Ayurveda or homeopathy.