What is Alternative Medicine?: Course Fees 2026, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Alt Medicine courses encompass a wide range of healthcare practices that are not typically part of conventional medical training but are recognised for their holistic approach to health and wellness.

Alt Medicine courses provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills to diagnose and treat patients using natural, less invasive methods, offering a complementary approach to conventional medical practices and addressing the growing demand for holistic healthcare solutions.

Yes, alternative medicine is legal and recognised in India. India has a rich tradition of various forms of alternative medicine systems that are officially recognised and regulated by the government. 

Several alternative medicine systems have legal recognition in India

• Ayurveda

• Yoga and Naturopathy

• Unani Medicine

• Siddha Medicine

• Homeopathy

Candidates can check the benefits of pursuing Alternative Medicine courses below:

• Growing Demand: With increasing awareness about holistic health, the demand for alternative medicine practitioners is on the rise.

• Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates of Alternative Medicine courses can explore careers in wellness centres, hospitals, research, or even start private practices.

• Global Recognition: Practices like Yoga, Acupuncture, and Ayurveda have gained global acceptance, creating international career opportunities.

• Complementary to Modern Medicine: Alternative medicine often works alongside allopathic treatments, enhancing overall patient care.

• Sustainability: Alternative Medicine courses focus on eco-friendly and sustainable healthcare practices.

• Personal Growth: Learning alternative medicine fosters mindfulness, self-care, and a deeper understanding of well-being.

Aspiring candidates should have passed a bachelor's degree (like MBBS, MBBS (AM), BAMS, BASM, BUMS etc.) in any recognised system of medicine, such as Allopathy, Homoeopathy, Ayurvedic, Unani, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), etc., with minimum 55% marks.

Yes, it's possible for someone who has pursued an alternative medicine course like BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) to appear for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) again. 

If an individual has completed BAMS and wishes to switch to mainstream allopathic medicine, they can attempt the NEET exam again to pursue an MBBS course. 

However, before deciding to switch courses or pursue MBBS after completing BAMS, individuals should research the requirements, consult with academic advisors or regulatory bodies, and understand the specific procedures and challenges involved in this transition.

In India, individuals who wish to practice alternative medicine need to meet specific educational and regulatory requirements set by the government. 

• Practitioners of these systems need to obtain degrees from recognised educational institutions in their respective fields.

• After completing the requisite education, individuals must register with the respective councils to legally practice alternative medicine in India. Registration typically involves passing qualifying exams and fulfilling other criteria set by the regulatory bodies.

Universities and colleges offer various courses related to Alternative Medicine, often under the broader umbrella of complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) or integrative medicine. These courses can vary significantly in focus, depth, and accreditation. 

Here are some common types of Alternative Medicine courses you might find:

Diploma Alternative Medicine Courses

• Diploma in Yoga

• Diploma in Physiotherapy

• PG Diploma in Health Science in Acupuncture

• Diploma in Acupressure

• Diploma in Aromatherapy

• Diploma in Naturopathy and Yoga

• Diploma in Ayurvedic Nursing and Panchkarma Therapy

Undergraduate Alternative Medicine Courses

• Bachelor in Health Medicinal Science

• Bachelor of Natural Medicine

• Bachelor of Naturopathic and Herbal Medicine

• Bachelor of Health Science in Acupuncture

• Bachelor of Health Medicine

• Bachelor’s in Acupuncture

• Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

• Bachelor in Midwifery

• Bachelor of Physiotherapy

• Bachelor of Electro Homeopathy

• Bachelor of Yoga Therapy

• Bachelor of Herbopathy

• Bachelor of Traditional Medicine

• Bachelor of Hydro Therapy

• Bachelors in Physiology

• Bachelor’s in Kinetic Science

• Bachelor’s in Chiropractic Science

• BSc in Paramedicine

Postgraduate Alternative Medicine Courses

• Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine

• Master of Health Practice in Acupuncture

• Master’s in Acupuncture

• MSc in Emergency Medicine

• MSc in Rural and Remote Medicine

• MA in Art Therapy

• MA in Dramatherapy

• MSc in Comparative and Experimental Medicine

• MSc in Oriental Medicine

• MSc in Midwifery

• MSc in Epidemiology

• MSc in Complementary and Alternative Medicine

• MSc in Occupational Therapy

• MD Homeopathy 

• MD Ayurveda

• Master of Naturopathy and Yoga Science

In India, the BAMS and BHMS degrees are often considered equivalent to the MBBS degree in terms of educational level and professional recognition. These degrees involve rigorous training in their respective fields of alternative medicine, including both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

Both BAMS and BHMS graduates are recognised as legitimate medical practitioners by the Indian government and are licensed to practice in their respective fields. They can pursue further specialization, research, and even teaching roles, similar to their counterparts with an MBBS degree.

Herbal Therapy is the most commonly used Alternative Medicine.

Also known as herbalism or phytotherapy, it is the practice of using plant-based substances to treat and prevent illnesses and promote overall health and well-being. This form of therapy relies on the medicinal properties of various herbs, roots, leaves, flowers, seeds, and bark to create natural remedies. 

Allopathic medicine, also known as conventional or Western medicine, focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases primarily through pharmaceuticals, surgery, and other technological interventions. It is grounded in scientific research, evidence-based practices, and standardized protocols. 

In contrast, alternative medicine encompasses a variety of non-conventional practices such as Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, which emphasize holistic and natural approaches to health and healing. These practices often focus on treating the whole person, including physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects, and may use herbal remedies, dietary changes, and mind-body techniques. 

Hi Esha,

Alternative Medicine means any form of medicine that is outside the mainstream of western medicine or conventional medicine. It practices are generally not recognized by the medical community as standard or conventional medical approaches.

Alternative medicine includes dietary supplements, herbal preparations, special teas, massage therapy, magnet therapy, and spiritual healing.

While Paramedics (Paramedical science) can be defined as a practice in the field of medical science that deals with pre-hospital emergency services. A person working in this field is referred to as a paramedic. They work as an emergency medical care provider, who provides primary medical and trauma care. Hope this information helps. 

Alternative Medicine means any form of medicine that is outside the mainstream of western medicine or conventional medicine. It practices are generally not recognized by the medical community as standard or conventional medical approaches. Alternative medicine includes dietary supplements, herbal preparations, special teas, massage therapy, magnet therapy, and spiritual healing.

While Paramedics (Paramedical science) can be defined as a practice in the field of medical science that deals with pre-hospital emergency services. A person working in this field is referred to as a paramedic. They work as an emergency medical care provider, who provides primary medical and trauma care.

Colleges for Distance Alternative Medicine offer flexible learning options, making them ideal for students looking to pursue careers after Alternative Medicine courses through distance education.

Candidates can check the table below to see the best colleges for Distance Alternative Medicine courses.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

These colleges are renowned for their distance learning, online, or part-time structures, making it easier for working professionals to pursue their education.

Candidates can check the table below to see the best colleges for Part-Time Alternative Medicine courses.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

These institutions offer online degrees, diplomas, or certification programs that cater to various alternative medicine disciplines, providing a flexible learning option for students worldwide.

Candidates can check the table below to see the best colleges for online Alternative Medicine courses.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Becoming a doctor in alternative medicine involves several steps, including education, training, and certification. Here is a general pathway:

• Choose a Specialty: Decide on the field of alternative medicine you want to specialize in, such as Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, or Chiropractic.

• Pursue Relevant Undergraduate Education: Enroll in an undergraduate programme related to your chosen speciality. 

• Complete the Undergraduate Program: Complete the undergraduate program, which typically lasts between 4 to 5.5 years and includes both theoretical and practical training.

• Internship/Residency: After graduation, complete a mandatory internship or residency program, which provides hands-on clinical experience under the supervision of experienced practitioners.

• Get Licensed/Certified: Obtain the necessary license or certification to practice in your chosen field. 

• Pursue Postgraduate Education (Optional): For further specialisation and advanced knowledge, consider pursuing postgraduate education such as a Master's degree or Doctoral programme (MD in Ayurveda, MD in Homeopathy, etc.).

• Continuous Professional Development: Engage in continuous education and training to keep updated with the latest advancements and practices in your field.

• Join Professional Associations: Become a member of professional associations related to your speciality. 

Dr. Mohsin Khan, Indian Board of Alternative Medicines is authorizing as per the aegis of the Order passed by the Kolkata High Court to which the Medical Council of India (MCI, Government of India) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (AYUSH), Government of India are parties.

Any student having completed their courses can practice the system of alternative medicines in any state of India. It is a fully recognised institution for pursuing an alternative medicine course and starting your practice.