One of the realities of choosing to study medicine is that you will always be asked the same question after you make that decision. Why medicine?  Every PCB student encounters this conundrum. In addition to keeping your eyes on the prize, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan. Focusing on the long-term objective and making an effort to make it a reality in your life is always smart.

The entrance exam for each of the specialties in medicine is NEET. Therefore, it is wise to study diligently for the exam. It is crucial to be motivated and to have a decision regarding your objective. However, it’s equally crucial to be receptive to fresh concepts and opportunities. There are many candidates and a small number of seats available. Therefore, it is essential to be optimistic and open to a larger range of options.

What are other options apart from MBBS?

There are several other courses that you can pursue apart from MBBS. Some of them are, BDS, BHMS, BAMS, etc.

Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)

BDS is a 5-years undergraduate program and the only approved professional dental course in India. One can pursue MDS (Master of Dental Surgery) after completing BDS. Even for BDS course, a student must qualify the NEET exam. Through the counselling process, seats are assigned based on rank, preferences, and seat availability, among other factors. The BDS degree programme lasts for five years (4 years of academic study plus a one-year required internship). Careers following earning a BDS degree include those in dentistry, oral surgery, endodontics, oral and maxillofacial pathology, peadiatric dentistry, orthodontics, and more.

Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS)

BHMS is an academic undergraduate degree course that covers homoeopathic system medical knowledge. An MD in homoeopathy can be pursued after completing BHMS. Candidates for BHMS must pass the NEET test as a prerequisite. The BHMS degree requires 5.5 years to complete (4.5 years of academic study plus a 1-year required internship). You can work as a chemist, doctor, consultant, researcher, public health expert, medical assistant, lecturer, etc. after receiving a BHMS degree.

Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS)

BAMS is an undergraduate degree programme designed to make students familiar with the concepts of Ayurveda. It combines Ayurveda with the principles of modern medicine, and as part of the course curriculum, students are taught a combination of both. After earning a BAMS, one can pursue an MD or MS in Ayurveda. Aspirants for the BAMS degree must pass the NEET test. BAMS takes 5.5 years to complete (4.5 years of academic study plus a 1-year internship that is required). Ayurvedic physician, consultant, therapist, sales representative, pharmacist, clinical trial coordinator, medical representative, sales executive, etc. are possible careers after earning a BAMS.

Even without enrolling in an MBBS programme, you might pursue your passion of working in the medical field. Candidates who are not interested in or do not meet the requirements for pursuing MBBS have a variety of possibilities. With proper training and guidance you can excel in any path you choose.