BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) Comparison with other courses
Parul ThapaAssistant Manager
After completing Class 12 with Science, many students aim for a career in the medical or healthcare field. While MBBS is often seen as the top choice, other courses like BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery), BHMS and BDS also offer promising career opportunities. Among these, BAMS has gained popularity due to the rising interest in Ayurveda and natural healing methods, both in India and globally.
But how does BAMS compare to these other healthcare courses in terms of career scope, salary, job roles, course duration, eligibility, and future growth? Is it a better alternative to MBBS or BHMS? Can it offer stable career options?
This article delves into the key differences, educational pathways, career prospects, and philosophies underlying these two distinct medical fields, providing a comprehensive guide for aspiring practitioners.
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Difference Between BAMS vs BHMS
What is BAMS?
Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) is a 5-year UG course that focuses on the study of Ayurveda, an ancient system of Medicine with roots in the Indian subcontinent.
BAMS covers various aspects of Ayurvedic Medicine, modern medical science, and surgery. BAMS course aims to integrate traditional Ayurvedic practices with contemporary medical knowledge, enabling graduates to diagnose and treat patients using a holistic approach. Students learn about herbal medicine, diet, lifestyle changes, and therapies to promote health and well-being.
What is BHMS?
Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) is a 5.5-year UG course centred on the study and practice of Homeopathy, a system of alternative medicine founded on the principle of treating patients with highly diluted substances to stimulate the body's natural healing processes.
BHMS students receive a comprehensive education in homeopathic philosophy, materia medica, repertory, and clinical training, along with basic medical sciences like anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology.
What is BDS?
BDS, i.e., Bachelor of Dental Surgery is one of the most prominent courses after MBBS. Students who wish to see themselves as Dentist in the future opt for this course. It is a 5-year bachelor's program, including 1 year of compulsory internship.
Admission to any BDS institute is based on the NEET UG scores only. The Dental Council of India (DCI) regulates the curriculum of this course.
Students also liked these topics on BAMS:
List of colleges accepting NEET scores for BDS courses (North India)
Colleges accepting NEET for BDS courses (South India)
BAMS vs BHMS: Highlights
Before admission, candidates must consider various factors and key points since both courses share similarities. Candidates can check the table below to see the highlights of the MBBS vs BDS course details.
|
Particulars |
BAMS |
BHMS |
|---|---|---|
|
Course Level |
UG |
UG |
|
Course Duration |
5 years |
5.5 years |
|
Course Fee |
INR 20,000 - INR 3 Lakh |
INR 1.5 Lakh - INR 3 Lakh |
|
Admission Criteria |
Entrance-Based |
Entrance-Based |
|
Eligibility Criteria |
Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) subjects and 50% to 60%. |
Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) subjects and 50% to 60%. |
|
Entrance Exams |
NEET |
NEET |
|
Popular Colleges |
Banaras Hindu University, Dr D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Parul University, etc. |
Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Parul University, MUHS, Kerala University of Health Sciences, etc. |
|
Job Profiles |
Business Development Officer, Ayurvedic Doctor, Category Manager, Resident Medical Officer, Jr. Clinical Trial Coordinator, Medical Representative, etc. |
Homoeopathic Doctors, Public Health Specialists, Private Practitioners, Pharmacists, etc. |
|
Average Salary |
INR 3 LPA - INR 15 LPA |
INR 4 LPA - INR 7 LPA |
|
Top Recruiters |
Government/Private Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Ayurvedic Clinics, Own Businesses, Wellness Centres, etc. |
Bharat Homeopathic, Avontix Solution Private Limited, Patanjali Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd, Bharat Homeopathic, Positive Health Science Pvt. Ltd |
Relevant Links on BAMS:
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BAMS vs BDS: Highlights
This section offers some key highlights of both the courses for easy understanding. Read this table to have an overview of significant details related to them.
|
Particulars |
BAMS |
BDS |
|---|---|---|
|
Course Level |
UG |
UG |
|
Course Duration |
5 years |
5 Years (4 Years + 1 Year of Mandatory Internship) |
|
Course Fee |
INR 20,000 - INR 3 Lakh |
INR 50,000 – 12,00,000 |
|
Admission Criteria |
Entrance-Based |
Entrance-Based |
|
Eligibility Criteria |
Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) subjects and 50% to 60%. |
Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) subjects and 50% to 60%. |
|
Entrance Exams |
NEET |
NEET UG |
|
Popular Colleges |
Banaras Hindu University, Dr D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Parul University, etc. |
KGMU, SRIHER, SRM Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, etc. |
|
Job Profiles |
Business Development Officer, Ayurvedic Doctor, Category Manager, Resident Medical Officer, Jr. Clinical Trial Coordinator, Medical Representative, etc. |
Dentists, Dental officers in Defense Services, Dentists in Indian Railways, Lecturers, Researchers, etc. |
|
Average Salary |
INR 3 LPA - INR 15 LPA |
INR 3 LPA - INR 9 LPA |
|
Top Recruiters |
Government/Private Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Ayurvedic Clinics, Own Businesses, Wellness Centres, etc. |
Hospitals, Dental Clinics, Educational Institutes, Dental Product Manufacturers etc. |
BAMS vs BHMS vs BDS: Eligibility
Both BAMS and BHMS are UG degrees in Alternative Medicine. Candidates must note that specific eligibility criteria can vary between different states and institutions offering these courses. Also, it's advisable to check with the respective colleges or universities for precise requirements and any entrance exams that may be applicable.
Candidates can check the table below to see the difference between the eligibility criteria for BAMS and BHMS courses.
|
Parameters |
BAMS |
BHMS |
|---|---|---|
|
Education |
Class 12 in Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) subjects. |
Class 12 in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry and Biology |
|
Minimum Aggregate Percentage |
50% |
50% |
|
Age Limit |
17 |
17 |
|
Entrance Exam |
NEET |
NEET |
Learn more about BAMS courses:
BAMS Courses: Fees Details, Duration, Subjects, Admission Process
BHMS Course: Fees Details, Duration, Subjects, Admission Process
BAMS vs BHMS vs BDS: Entrance Exam
Checking the specific requirements of the desired institution or state is essential to understand the complete admission process.
NEET is the primary entrance exam for admission to BAMS and BHMS courses in IndiaWA.
Further, since the entrance exam needed for BAMS admission and BHMS admission is the same, the candidates can check the table below to see the NEET details.
|
Particulars |
NEET Details |
|---|---|
|
Conducting Body |
|
|
Mode of exam |
Offline |
|
Exam Syllabus |
The NEET syllabus includes Physics, Chemistry and Biology topics from Class 11 and 12 |
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Admission to AYUSH courses through NEET 2024
BAMS vs BHMS: Syllabus
Both courses include extensive theoretical and practical training, preparing students to practice in their respective fields. The syllabi for BAMS and BHMS differ significantly as they focus on distinct systems of Medicine—Ayurveda and Homeopathy, respectively.
Also, candidates can check a general outline of the semester-wise BAMS and BHMS syllabus given in the table below.
|
Semesters |
BAMS |
BHMS |
|---|---|---|
|
Year 1 |
|
|
|
Year 2 |
|
|
|
Year 3 |
|
|
|
Year 4 |
|
|
Learn more about BAMS:
BHMS Syllabus 2024: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books
BAMS Syllabus 2024: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books
BAMS vs BHMS: Top Colleges
Choosing between BAMS and BHMS must depend on the candidate’s interest in either Ayurveda or Homeopathy, as they represent distinct systems of Alternative Medicine with different philosophies and treatment approaches.
Here are some of the top colleges in India offering BAMS and BHMS courses:
Top BAMS Colleges in India
BAMS colleges are esteemed for their comprehensive curriculum in Ayurveda, practical training in traditional therapies, and research opportunities.
Candidates can check the table below to see the popular BAMS colleges in India:
|
BAMS Colleges |
BAMS Course Fees |
|---|---|
|
Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University) |
28.88 L |
|
Parul University |
16.11 L |
|
Kerala University of Health Sciences |
2.48 L - 2.75 L |
|
SGT University, Gurgaon |
15.72 L |
|
MUHS |
1.15 L |
|
Rama University, Kanpur |
10.64 L |
|
Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya |
2.72 L |
|
College of Ayurved, Bharati Vidyapeeth |
22.5 L |
|
IIMT University |
10.78 L |
Suggested Reading for BAMS:
Best Ayurved Colleges in India 2024: Admissions, Fees, Ranking 2024, Courses, Placements, Cut Off
Top BHMS Colleges
BHMS colleges are recognized for their rigorous academic programs in homeopathy, clinical training facilities, and research opportunities.
Candidates can check the table below to see the popular BHMS colleges in India:
|
BHMS Colleges |
BHMS Course Fees |
|---|---|
|
Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth |
11.25 L |
|
Parul University |
5.26 L |
|
Kerala University of Health Sciences |
1.13 L |
|
MUHS |
1.5 L |
|
RKDF University, Bhopal |
6.57 L |
|
Kaloji Narayana Rao University of Health Sciences |
2.93 L |
|
Parul University |
5.26 L |
|
Padmashree Dr.D.Y.Patil Homoeopathic Medical College |
9.9 L |
|
Nehru Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital |
14.04 K |
Relevant Links for BAMS:
Best Homeopathy Colleges in India: Ranking, Admissions, Fees, Courses, Placements, Cut Off
BAMS vs BHMS: Jobs and Salary
In India, both BAMS and BHMS graduates have opportunities for employment across various sectors.
Choosing between BAMS and BHMS should align with the candidate’s interest in either Ayurvedic or Homeopathic medicine, as both fields offer rewarding career paths with opportunities for growth and specialization in India.
BAMS Salary in India
The BAMS salary for graduates in India can vary based on several factors such as experience, location, type of employer (government/private), and specialization.
Here are some common BAMS job profiles in India:
|
Job Profiles |
Average Salary |
|---|---|
|
Physicians/BAMS Doctors |
INR 7.4 LPA |
|
Clinical Research Associates |
INR 4.3 LPA |
|
Drug Manufacturers |
INR 2.9 LPA |
|
Health Supervisor/Therapists |
INR 3.4 LPA |
|
Medical Supervisors |
INR 2.6 LPA |
Note: The salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Learn more about BAMS Career here
BHMS Salary in India
The BHMS salary for graduates in India varies depending on factors such as experience, location, type of employer, and specialization.
Here are some common BHMS job profiles in India:
|
Job Type |
Average Salary |
|---|---|
|
Homeopathic Doctor |
INR 3.4 LPA |
|
Public Health Specialist |
INR 11.3 LPA |
|
Private Practitioner |
INR 6.5 LPA |
|
INR 2.6 LPA |
|
|
Teacher/Lecturer |
INR 6.5 LPA |
Learn more about BHMS Career here
Helpful Links for BAMS Courses:
BAMS vs BHMS: Academic Scope
Both BAMS and BHMS are UG Medical courses, each focusing on different systems of Medicine. Choosing between BAMS and BHMS must depend on the candidate’s interest in either Ayurvedic or Homeopathic medicine, as well as the availability of educational opportunities and career prospects in their region.
Further, graduates of BAMS and BHMS can apply for the same kinds of courses after graduating. These are as follows:
|
Courses |
Duration |
|---|---|
|
MD (Doctor of Medicine) is a postgraduate specialization pursued after completing MBBS, focusing on advanced medical knowledge and clinical training in specialized fields. |
|
|
Master of Surgery (MS) is a postgraduate specialization pursued after completing MBBS, focusing on advanced surgical training and expertise in various surgical disciplines. |
|
|
MBA in Hospital Management |
The MBA in Hospital Management is a specialized PG course designed to equip healthcare professionals with the managerial skills and knowledge needed to effectively run healthcare facilities. |
|
Clinical Research courses are designed to train healthcare professionals and researchers in the methodologies and regulations governing clinical trials and research studies. |
|
|
Public Health Management courses are tailored to equip professionals with the skills needed to address public health challenges effectively. |
Helpful Links for BAMS courses:
BAMS vs BHMS FAQs
Q. Which is better than BAMS or BHMS?
A. Choosing between BAMS and BHMS ultimately depends on individual preferences, career aspirations, and interests in specific medical philosophies.
BAMS focuses on Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional Indian system emphasizing natural remedies and holistic health approaches. BHMS, on the other hand, centres on Homeopathic medicine, which utilizes highly diluted substances to stimulate the body's self-healing.
Both fields are respected within alternative medicine and regulated by their respective councils in India.
Q. Who earns more, BAMS or BHMS?
A. The average BAMS salary in India is INR 4.2 Lakh, on the other hand, that of a BHMS is INR 1 LPA.
The earning potential of practitioners with a BAMS or BHMS can vary based on several factors such as location, experience, and specialization.
In general, salaries can vary widely, but both fields can offer competitive earning opportunities. Ayurveda and Homeopathy both have their markets and patient bases, which can influence income levels.
Q. Which course is simpler - BAMS or BHMS?
A. Determining whether BAMS or BHMS is simpler is subjective and depends on individual aptitudes and interests.
The perceived simplicity may vary; those with a strong interest in herbal medicine and traditional healing might find BAMS more intuitive, while those fascinated by the principles of Homeopathy might consider BHMS easier to grasp. Ultimately, the simplicity of each course is relative to one's passion and aptitude for the respective medical systems.
Q. Can BAMS graduates practice Homeopathy, and vice versa?
A. In India, BAMS graduates are not officially authorized to practice Homeopathy, and similarly, BHMS graduates are not permitted to practice Ayurveda.
Each medical system is governed by its respective regulatory council—the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) for Ayurveda and the Central Council of Homeopathy (CCH) for Homeopathy. These councils ensure that practitioners have received adequate education and training specific to their field.
Therefore, while BAMS and BHMS graduates have comprehensive knowledge of their respective disciplines, practising outside their trained system would require additional qualifications and adherence to regulatory guidelines.
Q. What are the future trends in BAMS and BHMS education and practice?
A. The future of BAMS and BHMS education and practice is poised for significant evolution, driven by several emerging trends:
- Integration with Modern Medicine: There is a growing trend towards integrating traditional and alternative medicine with modern medical practices.
- Increased Research and Evidence-Based Practice: There is a push for more rigorous research and evidence-based practice in both Ayurveda and Homeopathy.
- Technological Advancements: The incorporation of technology in education and practice is becoming more prevalent.
- Regulatory Changes and Standardization: Efforts are being made to standardize education and practice across different regions, ensuring high-quality training and consistent regulatory standards.
- Public Awareness and Demand: There is an increasing public awareness and demand for natural and holistic health treatments.
Q. What are the challenges faced by BAMS and BHMS practitioners today?
A. BAMS and BHMS practitioners face several challenges in today's healthcare landscape:
- Recognition and Integration: One of the primary challenges is gaining recognition and integration into mainstream healthcare systems.
- Education and Training Standards: Ensuring consistent and high-quality education and training standards across institutions is crucial.
- Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Both fields are increasingly focusing on evidence-based practice and rigorous research.
- Regulatory Issues: Regulatory frameworks can differ widely between regions, affecting licensure, practice guidelines, and professional mobility for BAMS and BHMS practitioners.
Q. Is BAMS better than BDS?
A. Students graduating from BAMS can become Ayurveda dieticians, teachers, counselors, therapists, and more. Whereas BDS graduates can become dentists, lecturers, and so on. Opting for any course has its advantages, students should make a choice based on their interests, skills, and long-term goals.
Q. Which one has a bright future and salary, BAMS or BDS?
A. Both BAMS and BDS can offer great career and earning opportunities, it depends on the choice students make. If one wishes to have a stable job and income, they can opt for working in a hospital or any other institution. A few things like your career objectives, interests, and skills sets are worth considering.
Q. Is BAMS better than BDS for girls?
A. There is no such thing as better for girls, both BAMS and BDS are good options. Choosing either BAMS or BDS completely relies upon the interests of female students. If one is interested in dentistry one can become a dentist, similarly one can follow their traditional medicine passion with BAMS.
Q. Which field has better job opportunities: BAMS or BDS?
A. Both fields have diverse job opportunities; therefore, it wouldn’t be fair to compare the two. The BDS is dedicated to the oral healthcare realm while BAMS is dedicated to Ayurveda medicine. Fortunately, graduates from either field can work for other institutions to earn a stable income or start practicing in their own clinics or institutions.
Q. Is BDS a safe career option?
A. With people having busy and unhealthy lifestyles, the significance of dentistry and oral healthcare has increased over the years. This makes the profession of a dentist more secure and flourishing. BDS is now not any less than MBBS, however, it is important to make an informed choice when opting for a BDS college in India.
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Popular BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) Colleges in India
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Popular BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) Specializations
Popular Specializations
- Ayurved
235 Colleges
- General Surgery
22 Colleges
- General Medicine
2 Colleges
- Surgical Technology
1 College
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Popular Courses
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 3 weeks ago
For admission to BAMS at Taranath Government Ayurveda Medical College, you will generally need documents such as your NEET 2025 Scorecard, Class 12 mark sheets and certificate, Class 10 mark sheet, caste certificate (if applicable), domicile/nationality certificate, and passport-sized photographs. T
Contributor-Level 8
Answered a month ago
To enrol in a BAMS course at The Indian Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine and Research, candidates must meet the eligibility criteria set by the institute. The institute offers full-time BAMS courses lasting sixty-six months. Students are selected based on entrance exam. In addition to the selection c
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
The fee range for the BAMS programme at Indian Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine and Research is INR 2.7 lakh. The fee structure is sourced from unofficial sources, hence indicative. The fee covers various academic expenses like tuition fees, laboratory charges, examination fees, library fees, and oth
L
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
For admission to the BAMS course at the Indian Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine and Research, students need to fulfil the minimum eligibility criteria in the first place. The selection criteria for this course are entrance-based, and candidates must pass Class 12 with a minimum 50% aggregate. Candida
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Candidates are admitted to various courses based on entrance exam scores, which are NEET UG. The application process at the Indian Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine and Research is conducted online. Students can check the brief admission process below:
- Mode of application: Through NEET UG entrance exam
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
I think you are not able to get admission in BAMS in this mark
You get admission in private BAMS college
U
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 2 months ago
It depends on your state as well as yur category. From AIQ if you belong to general category looks difficult to get BAMS on this rank.
A
Beginner-Level 2
Answered 2 months ago
The management quota seat fee structure for BAMS at Rajiv Gandhi Government Post Graduate Ayurvedic College, Paprola, is not explicitly mentioned in the provided search results. However, the total tuition fee for the BAMS programme is INR 1,74,780, . This fee includes both refundable and non-refunda
B
Contributor-Level 7
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What are the required documents for admission in BAMS at Taranath Government Ayurveda Medical College? My NEET 2025 score is 440.