What is Nephrology?: Course Fees 2025, Subjects, Top Colleges, Admissions

Updated on Jul 21, 2025 03:25 IST
Parul Thapa

Parul ThapaAssistant Manager

Nephrology courses focus on studying disease related to kidney and its treatment. Nephrology courses also include the study of kidney dialysis and the transplants.

Suggested Links for Nephrology Courses:

Hospital Management Course
Naturopathy
Radiology Courses

Nephrology Course Duration

Here’s a breakdown of Nephrology course durations at various academic levels:

Course Type

Duration

PG Level (DM in Nephrology)

3 years (after MD/DNB in General Medicine or Pediatrics)

PG Level (DNB in Nephrology)

3 years

PG Diploma/Fellowship in Nephrology

1–2 years (for MBBS/MD holders)

Certificate Courses in Nephrology

3 months to 1 year (varies by institute)

Nephrology Course Details

Candidates can check the table below to see the Nephrology course details:

Particulars

Details

Nephrology Course Level

Advanced Masters, Post Doctorate and PG

Nephrology Course Duration

2-3 years

Nephrology Course Fees

INR 1,500 and INR 58.27 Lakh

Nephrology Course Admission Process

Entrance-Based

Nephrology Course Entrance Exams

NEET SS

Popular Nephrology Colleges

AIIMS Delhi

CMC Vellore

KMC Manipal

MMC

Nephrology Jobs

Nephrologist

Consultant Nephrologist

Transplant Nephrologist

Researcher in Nephrology

Nephrology Salary

INR 22 LPA and INR 48 LPA

Nephrology Top Recruiters

Apollo Hospitals

AIIMS

Fortis Memorial Research Institute

Wockhardt Hospital

Useful Links for Nephrology Courses:

Pharmacy Course

Medical Laboratory Technology

Medical Courses

 

Q:   Can I pursue Nephrology course online?
A:

The Nephrology courses that are available online are as follows:

CoursesOffered byFees (INR)
Fellowship in Nephrology (Online)Medvarsity73.28 K
Advanced Certificate in NephrologyMedvarsity58.27 K
Advanced Certificate in NephrologyMediCOLL Learning70 K
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Q:   Could you give me details on Nephrology course for RN?
A:

Nephrology courses for Registered Nurses (RN) are designed to enhance their knowledge and clinical skills in kidney care, dialysis procedures, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) management.

These courses often include modules on hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, transplant care, and patient education. 

These are offered as short-term certificate which provide RNs with the skills helpful to work in dialysis centers, nephrology units or even transplant wards.

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Q:   Could you give me details on Nephrology course for Nurses?
A:

Nephrology courses for nurses, specially RNs, are there to provide a basic understanding about renal anatomy, kidney disease progression, dialysis techniques and even patient monitoring.

These courses are ideal for candidates who want to be a general nurse or even those who want to specialise in Nephrology. These are available in many short-term courses and focus on practical skills with ethical care and the latest guidelines in renal nursing.

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Q:   Could you give me details on Nephrology course for RPN?
A:

Nephrology courses are made for those nurses who want to secialise in Nephrology field and later support kidney patients in the clinical and community settings.

The curriculum of such courses include basic renal pathophysiology, fluid management, vascular access care and even patient counselling.

These are usually offered in short-term courses and the curriculum helps nurses in becoming skilled so that they have a wide scope in their career.

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Table of content
  • Nephrology Eligibility & Admission 2025
  • Nephrology Course Entrance Exams
  • Nephrology Courses: Syllabus
  • Types of Nephrology Courses
  • Best Colleges for Nephrology Courses
  • Popular Private Nephrology Colleges in India
  • Nephrology Career Scope: Jobs, Salary and Top Recruiters
  • Nephrology Courses: FAQs
  • Popular Nephrology PG Courses
View More

Nephrology Eligibility & Admission 2025

Below are the eligibility criteria for each of the Nephrology courses:

Nephrology Courses

Eligibility

DM in Nephrology (or any other super specialty)
  • MD in General Medicine or MD in Paediatrics
  • NEET-SS
PDCC in Nephrology
  • MD in General Medicine or equivalent
Advanced Master’s in Nephrology

MBBS or any UG relevant medical degree

Helpful Links for Nephrology Courses:

Perfusion Technology
Cardiovascular Technology
Operation Theatre Technology

 

Nephrology Course Admission 2025

Admission to Nephrology courses is different in all colleges.

  • Make sure that you fulfil the eligibility criteria of the colleges.
  • Fill out the application form and pay the fee.
  • Appear for the entrance exams if any.
  • Wait for the results.
  • Sit for the counselling rounds.

 

Q:   Can I pursue any Nephrology course online?
A:

No, Nephrology courses are not offered online as this course is full of hands-on clinical training. More than the theory, there is more of practicals related to this courses so therefore these courses are not offered online. 

While some online courses may provide theoretical knowledge on nephrology topics, they do not offer recognised certification or clinical expertise. 

To become a nephrologist, one must undergo structured medical education, including MBBS, MD, and DM in Nephrology.

Suggested Links for Nephrology Courses:

Anaesthesia Technology
Radiotherapy Technology
Forensic Medical Science

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Q:   Are there any Diploma in Nephrology courses available in India?
A:

No, there are no Nephrology courses that offered at a Diploma level in India. 

No doubt, there are some short-term certificate courses available but they are not for the ones who aspire to become nephrologists.

Useful Links for Nephrology Courses:

Paediatrics,8 Health Management
Echo Cardiology & Cardiac Technology
Medical Transcription

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Q:   Can I become a Nephrologist without MBBS?
A:

No, unfortunately, one cannot become a Nephrologist without doing MBBS. It is the most basic and foundational degree considered for Nephrology specialisation.

Since Nephrology is a super-specialisation that is done after MBBS, it becomes important that candidates have MBBS degree.

Helpful Links for Nephrology Courses:

Pathology Courses

Rehabilitation

Public Health

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Nephrology Course Entrance Exams

Admission to the Nephrology courses is solely based on NEET SS. Candidates can check the details of the NEET SS exam in the table below:

Entrance Exams

Exam Date

Exam Schedule

NEET SS

29 Mar ' 25 - 30 Mar ' 25 (Conducted)

NEET SS Dates

Recommended Links for Nephrology Courses:

Dietetics & Nutrition
Pediatrics Courses
MD Dermatology

 

9 Nov ' 25

NEET 2025 Counselling Online Stray Vacancy Round ...

5 Nov ' 25 - 9 Nov ' 25

NEET 2025 Counselling Online Stray Vacancy Round ...

9 Nov ' 25 - 15 Nov ' 25

NEET PG 2025 counselling round-1 reporting

19 Nov ' 25 - 24 Nov ' 25

NEET PG 2025 round-2 counselling choice filling

Mar '26 - Apr '26

AIIMS BSc Paramedical Registration (Basic)

TENTATIVE

30 May ' 26

AIIMS BSc Paramedical 2026 Exam date

9 Nov ' 25

INI CET 2025 November exam date

1 Nov ' 25

INI CET 2025 November admit card

Q:   Does Nephrology require NEET?
A:

Yes, NEET is needed if you wish to pursue Nephrology.

At first, NEET UG is needed for admission to MBBS and then NEET PG is required for MD in General Medicine or Paediatrics. 

After completing MD, candidates must clear NEET-SS (Super Specialty) to secure admission into a DM/DNB Nephrology program. Since nephrology is a highly specialised medical branch, these entrance exams ensure the selection of qualified candidates.

Relevant Links for Nephrology Courses:

MSc Clinical Embryology
MSc Pathology

Q:   Which documents or files have to be uploaded while filling the NEET SS application form?
A:

While filling the NEET SS application form, candidates had to upload the following documents or files:

  • Photograph
  • Signature
  • Thumb impression

The photograph to be uploaded is categorised in two ways, uploading an existing passport-size photograph and taking a realtime photograph through webcamera and uploading it. The format and dimension for each of these documents have been instructed by NBE. Candidates must ensure that they upload the documents in the given format only, otherwise their NEET SS applications are not accepted. 

Q:   What is the exam pattern for the NEET SS?
A:

According to the existing pattern, NEET SS will comprise one paper of 150 multiple-choice questions, from broad speciality and super speciality course. There will be three sections carrying 50 questions each and a time duration of 50 minutes will be there. The total duration will be 150 minutes or 2.5 hours. The question paper will be of 600 marks. Total 150 Questions for 600 marks will be asked in the NEET SS question paper. Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). Marking Scheme: Aspirants will get +4 marks on each correct response and -1 on each negative response. NBE released the information brochure which has a detailed exam pattern for NEET SS exam.

Q:   What is the process to apply for NEET SS?
A:

The NEET SS application process is completely online. The first step is to register, followed by filling up the application form. The step by step process to register and application for NEET SS is given below:

  • Visit the official website of NEET SS or NBE
  • Click on the Registration tab
  • Enter the mandatory details
  • Select password
  • Enter the OTP
  • Once the username and password is generated, candidates have to login to complete the application process
  • Enter the mandatory details regarding personal details, academic details, uploading photographs and payment of the application fee.

Nephrology Courses: Syllabus

Below is a general outline of the syllabus for DM/DNB Nephrology and can also vary a little across institutions.

Nephrology Courses - Advanced Masters

Below is a general semester-wise syllabus structure for Advanced masters level of Nephrology courses:

Advanced Master Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 1
Renal Anatomy & Physiology Kidney Function Tests
Fluid-Electrolyte Balance -
Advanced Master Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 2
Clinical Nephrology (CKD, AKI, Glomerulonephritis) Nephrology 
Pharmacology -
Advanced Master Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 3
Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Vascular Access
Dialysis Complications -
Advanced Master Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 4
Renal Transplantation Post-transplant Management
Research Project/Thesis -

Nephrology Courses - Post Doctorate

Below is a general semester-wise syllabus structure for Post Doctorate level of Nephrology courses:

Post Doctorate Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 1
Renal Pathophysiology Kidney Biopsy Interpretation
Radiological Investigations -
Post Doctorate Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 2
Glomerular Diseases Tubulointerstitial Disorders
Electrolyte Imbalances -
Post Doctorate Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 3
AKI & CKD Management Comorbidity Handling (Diabetes, HTN)
Guideline-based Care -
Post Doctorate Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 4
Dialysis Unit Management Critical Care Nephrology
Teaching / Research Duties -
Post Doctorate Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 5
Kidney Transplantation Immunosuppression Protocols
Rejection Management -
Post Doctorate Nephrology Course Syllabus - Sem 6
Dissertation/Thesis Clinical Presentations
Exit Exams & Viva -

Relevant Links for Nephrology Courses:

Clinical Research
Medicine
Dermatology

 

Q:   Is Nephrology a stressful specialty?
A:

Yes, it is possible that Nephrology can be a stressful speciality especially because it is a study related to kidney diseases. And the nature of kidney diseases are usually vey compliated, which also often require long-term management and emergency care. 

It is very common for Nephrologists to deal with critically ill patients everyday, including all those who are on dialysis or awaiting kidney transplants. 

This field is full of handling complex cases and making life-saving decisions, as all the doctors do. 

Q:   Is Nephrology a good branch?
A:

Yes, Nephrology is a very promising and a very rewarding medical branch. It also offers high demand, financial stability to the candidates and opportunities in healthcare field. 

Also, due to the rise in kidney diseases worldwide, nephrologists play a very crucial role in healthcare. 

The field is very stimulating, it requires expertise in internal medicine, dialysis and even transplant care.

No doubt it is challenging, nephrology provides immense job satisfaction by helping patients manage chronic kidney conditions effectively.

Types of Nephrology Courses

Candidates can check the types of Nephrology courses that are offered in India below:

Nephrology Courses - Advanced Masters

Candiates can check the list of colleges offering Advanced Masters in Nephrology courses below: 

Nephrology Advanced Master Courses Nephrology Advanced Master Colleges Nephrology Advanced Master Course Fees (INR)
DM  AIIMS Delhi 3,330
CMC Vellore 1,500
KMC Manipal 49.65 Lakh

Note: The fees is taken from other sources and can be different.

Best Colleges for Nephrology Courses

Candidates can check the list of best government and private colleges for Nephrology courses below:

Best Government Colleges for Nephrology Courses

You can check the list of best government colleges for Nephrology courses below:

Nephrology Colleges

Nephrology Course Fees (INR)

AIIMS Delhi

3,330

Madras Medical College, Chennai

1.2 Lakh

Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research

36,000

ILBS Delhi

45,000 - 2.1 Lakh

S.M.S. Medical College

39,750

Osmania Medical College

30,000

Christian Medical College & Hospital Ludhiana

23.4 Lakh

Institute of Medical Sciences, BHU

1.21 Lakh

Topiwala National Medical College, Mumbai

2.94 Lakh

Disclaimer: This info. is taken from the official website and may differ.

Best Private Colleges for Nephrology Courses

You can check the list of best private colleges for Nephrology courses below:

Nephrology Colleges

Nephrology Course Fees (INR)

CMC Vellore

1,500

Kasturba Medical College, Manipal

6.77 Lakh - 49.65 Lakh

Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences

24 Lakh

SOA University

19.6 Lakh

St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences

21.86 Lakh

JSS Medical College

63.42 Lakh

Dayanand Medical College and Hospital

15.6 Lakh

PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research

47.14 Lakh

SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre

16 Lakh

Disclaimer: This info. is taken from the official website and may differ.

Related Links for Nephrology Courses: 

Ayurveda
Clinical Trials
Homeopathy

 

116 Courses
1 K - 6.08 K
12 - 24 LPA

#1 NIRF

101 Courses
300 - 2.67 L
4.34 - 12.09 LPA

#3 NIRF

48 K - 2.14 L
8.5 - 16 LPA

#8 NIRF

10 K - 6 L
8 - 21 LPA

#6 India Today

650 - 2 L
12.2 - 24.1 LPA

#13 NIRF

1.5 L - 1.35 Cr
3.06 - 19.5 LPA

#20 NIRF

Q:   How to choose the right colleges for Nephrology courses?
A:

It is very important that candidates choose the best colleges for themselves to pursue Nephrology courses. They can consider the following factors while selecting the colleges:

  • Accreditation & Recognition

  • Ranking & Reputation

  • Clinical Exposure

  • Entrance Exam Requirements

  • Placement & Research Opportunities

Q:   Which colleges offer the highest placement for Nephrology courses?
A:

The colleges that offer the highest placement for Nephrology courses are:

Nephrology Colleges

Nephrology Course Fees (INR)

MGM Medical College and Hospital Placements

16 LPA

MGM0 Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Placements

15.6 LPA

Pushpagiri Institute of Medical Science Placements

13.4 LPA

AIIMS Jodhpur Placements

13.21 LPA

Narayana Medical College and Hospital Placements

13 LPA

Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences Placements

12 LPA

Geetanjali University Placements

11.5 LPA

AIIMS7 University Placements

10.8 LPA

Narayana3 School of Medicine Placements

10.2 LPA

Note: The information has been taken from the official websites and may vary.

Popular Private Nephrology Colleges in India

9 Courses
3 L - 7.65 L
3.5
9 Courses
3.18 L - 7.34 L
2.75 LPA
16 Courses
4.35 L - 10.8 L
3.4
10 K - 20.25 L
4.5 LPA
1.96 L - 18.36 L
4.0

Medicine & Health Sciences Applications open. Apply Now

2.5 L - 9 L

Nephrology Career Scope: Jobs, Salary and Top Recruiters

Candidates who have pursued Nephrology degree get to work in the hospitals as Nephrologists who treat patients with diseases related to kidneys. Because of the rise in kidney-related diseases nowadays, the demand of Nephrologists has increased over time. Since it is a specialised field of medicine, candidates get jobs with handsome salary at government as well as private hospitals and even research institutions. 

Nephrology Jobs in India

Candidates can check the table below to see the list of top Nephrology jobs in India:

Nephrology Jobs

Average Salary (INR)

Nephrologist

22.7 LPA

Consultant Nephrologist

22 LPA

Transplant Nephrologist

35 LPA

Researcher in Nephrology

22.7 LPA

Medical Professor/Lecturer

22 LPA

Note: This salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.

Suggested Nephrology Courses Readings:

Clinical Data Management
Alternative Medicine
MD Pediatrics

Nephrology Top Recruiters

Candidates can check the table below to see the list of top Nephrology recruiters in India:

Nephrology Top Recruiters

Apollo Hospitals

AIIMS

Fortis Memorial Research Institute

Wockhardt Hospital

Max Hospital 

Medanta

Useful Nephrology Courses Readings:

MD Pathology 

Neuro Physiology
Nuclear Medicine Technology

 

Q:   What is the scope of Nephrology course?
A:

The scope for nephrologists is vast, as kidney diseases are increasing globally majorly because of rising cases of diabetes as well as the hypertension.

Nephrologists can work in the hospitals, kidney transplant centres and even dialysis units or they can either pursue research or even academics. 

With all the advancements in dialysis and transplant procedures, the demand for nephrologists is at an all time high. India, the USA, and the UK, all these offer significant career opportunities in both clinical practice and research in nephrology.

Recommended Links for Nephrology Courses:

Immunology
Diabetology
PhD in Medicine

Q:   What is the highest salary for a Nephrologist?
A:

The Nephrology salary that can go highest can range from INR 30 LPA to INR 50 LPA, but it also depends on experience, expertise and even location.

Also, the senior nephrologists that are working in top private hospitals or running successful private practices can earn even more. 

Candidates can get higher salary based on the factors such as international training, specialisation in advanced procedures and even affiliations with reputed institutions.

Q:   How to become a nephrologist after 12th?
A:

Below are the steps to become a Nephrologist after 12th:

  • Complete 12th with PCB
  • Clear NEET-UG
  • Complete MBBS (5.5 years)
  • Qualify NEET-PG
  • Pursue MD (3 years)
  • Appear for NEET-SS.
  • Complete DM/DNB in Nephrology (3 years)
Q:   What is the difference between a Nephrologist and a Consultant Nephrologist?
A:

The table below shows the key differences between Nephrologist and a Consultant Nephrologist:

Feature

Nephrologist

Consultant Nephrologist

Qualification

MBBS + MD + DM/DNB in Nephrology

MBBS + MD + DM/DM/DNB4 with years of experience

Role

Diagnoses and treats kidney diseases

Leads a team and provides expert consultations

Experience Level

Early to mid-career specialist

Senior specialist with vast experience

Responsibilities

Manages dialysis, kidney failure, and electrolyte imbalances

Oversees complex cases, research, and training

Q:   Which is better among a urologist and a nephrologist?
A:

The table explains how these are different:

Aspect

Urologist

Nephrologist

Focus Area

Urinary tract and male reproductive system

Kidney diseases and non-surgical treatment

Procedures Performed

Kidney stone removal, prostate surgery, kidney transplants

Dialysis, kidney failure management, electrolyte balance

Training Path

MBBS? MD (General Surgery)? MCh/DNB (Urology)

MBBS? MD (General Medicine)? DM/DNB (Nephrology)

Career Scope

Surgical field, hospitals, and clinics

The medical field, dialysis centres, and hospitals

Best for?

Patients needing surgery for kidney/urinary disorders

Patients needing medical treatment for kidney issues

 

Nephrology Courses: FAQs

Candidates can check below for FAQs of Nephrology Courses.

Q:   Is Nephrologist a doctor?
A:

Yes, a nephrologist is a medical doctor who has done Nephrology specialization and is also responsible for diagnosing and even treating kidney-related diseases. If a candidates wishes to become a Nephrologist, they should complete MBBS, MD in General Medicine or even Paediatrics, and then they can go for DM or DNB in Nephrology.

Q:   What are the certificate courses in Nephrology?
A:

Following are the colleges that offer the certificate courses in Nephrology:

Nephrology Colleges

Nephrology Course Fees (INR)

Kasturba Medical College, Manipal

6.77 Lakh

Medvarsity

58,270 - 73,280

ILBS Delhi

45,000

 

Popular Nephrology PG Courses

Following are the most popular Nephrology PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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