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

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.
Nephrology can be done in DM or DNB course levels after MBBS as a medical specialisation. If we talk about eligibility generally, candidates should pass MBBS. Candidates should also pass NEET SS or NEET PG. Fees can range around INR 1 Lakh to INR 58 Lakh. But candidates should know that eligibility, exam required as well as fees can be different according to the courses as well as colleges.
Popular colleges are AIIMS Delhi, CMC, KMC, SOA University, etc.
Jobs available for graduates are Nephrologist, Consultant Nephrologist, Transplant Nephrologist, etc. Recruiters include Apollo Hospitals, AIIMS, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, etc.
Nephrology Course Duration
Candidates can see detailed information about the course below -
| Course Type |
Duration |
|---|---|
| PG Level (DM in Nephrology) |
3 years (after MD/DNB in General Medicine or Paediatrics) |
| 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) |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
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 |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
Nephrology courses for Registered Nurses (RN) are designed to enhance their knowledge and clinical skills in kidney care, dialysis procedures and also chronic kidney disease (CKD) management.
These courses often include modules on hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, transplant care and also patient education.
These are offered as short-term certificate which provide RNs with skills helpful to work in dialysis centers, nephrology units or even transplant wards.
- Nephrology Eligibility & Admission
- Nephrology Course 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
Nephrology Eligibility & Admission
Candidates should know that eligibility can be different according to the courses. This is why they should check it. Failure to fulfill the eligibility can lead to cancellation of candidature.
Candidates can see the general outline of the eligibility below -
|
Nephrology Courses |
Eligibility |
|---|---|
| DM in Nephrology (or any other super speciality) |
|
| PDCC in Nephrology |
|
| Advanced Master’s in Nephrology |
MBBS or any UG relevant medical degree |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
Nephrology Course Admission Process
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 NEET SS or NEET PG and pass it.
- Wait for the results.
- Sit for the counselling rounds.
No Nephrology courses are not offered online as this course is full of hands-on clinical training. More than 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:
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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
Nephrology Course Exams
Admission to the Nephrology courses is entirely based on NEET SS or NEET PG. The accepting exam can differ according to the college candidates are applying to.
Candidates can check details of the exams in table below -
|
Entrance Exams |
Exam Schedule |
|---|---|
|
NEET SS |
|
|
NEET PG |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
24 Dec ' 25 | NEET 2025 Counselling round-6 result |
25 Dec ' 25 - 31 Dec ' 25 | NEET 2025 Counselling round-6 reporting |
17 Dec ' 25 - 25 Dec ' 25 | NEET PG 2025 round-2 counselling institute report... |
26 Dec ' 25 - 30 Dec ' 25 | NEET PG 2025 round-3 counselling registration |
Mar '26 - Apr '26 | AIIMS BSc Paramedical Registration (Basic) TENTATIVE |
30 May ' 26 | AIIMS BSc Paramedical 2026 Exam date |
19 Dec ' 25 - 24 Dec ' 25 | Round-1 INI CET 2025 reporting |
9 Jan ' 26 | INI CET 2025 round-2 seat allotment result |
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 selection of qualified candidates.
Relevant Links for Nephrology Courses:
While filling NEET SS application form, candidates have to upload following documents or files:
- Photograph
- Signature
- Thumb impression
Two separate photographs have to be uploaded. first one has to be a passport-size photograph. second photo has to be clicked on webcam of desktop or laptop while filling form and uploading it. Candidates have to upload documents in given format only, otherwise their NEET SS applications are not accepted.
Nephrology Courses: Syllabus
Nephrology courses is all about study of kidney, its structure, diseases that affect it and its treatment. This course is focused on theoretical as well as practical subjects with core and elective subjects which help candidates understand the concepts of Nephrology courses. Candidates should know that syllabus and the curriculum can be different according to the course levels. Course duration can be from 6 months to 3 years but then again it depends on the course level.
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 | - |
Yes it is possible that Nephrology can be a stressful speciality especially because it is a study related to kidney diseases. And 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 doctors do.
Yes Nephrology is a very promising and a very rewarding medical branch. It also offers high demand, financial stability to candidates and opportunities in healthcare field.
Also due to rise in kidney diseases worldwide, nephrologists play a very crucial role in healthcare.
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
Nephrology can be studied at DM levels in India. These courses are done after completing MBBS course as higher medical specialisations.
Candidates can see table below showing the popular Medical colleges that offer DM Nephrology and their course fees -
Nephrology Courses - Advanced Masters
Candidates can check the list of colleges offering DM in Nephrology courses below -
| Nephrology Advanced Master Courses | DM Nephrology Colleges | DM Nephrology Course Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| DM | AIIMS Delhi | 3,330 |
| CMC Vellore | 4,500 | |
| KMC Manipal | 49.65 Lakh |
Note: Fees is taken from other sources and can be different.
Best Colleges for Nephrology Courses
There are approximately 200+ colleges which have Nephrology courses, out of which 50+ are government, 40+ private and 1 is public private. Choosing best colleges for Nephrology education can be tough, specially when there are a lot of options in front of candidates. At this point it becomes very important to filter them out according to your liking, budget and career plan.
That is why candidates can see a list of popular government and private colleges 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) |
|---|---|
|
3,330 |
|
|
1.2 Lakh |
|
|
36,000 |
|
|
45,000 - 2.1 Lakh |
|
|
39,750 |
|
|
30,000 |
|
|
23.4 Lakh |
|
| B. J. Medical College, Ahmedabad |
1.2 Lakh |
|
1.21 Lakh |
|
| Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College and KEM Hospital | 2.83 Lakh |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
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) |
|---|---|
|
4,500 |
|
|
49.65 Lakh |
|
|
19.6 Lakh |
|
|
30 Lakh |
|
|
21.86 Lakh |
|
| Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences | 21 Lakh |
|
63.42 Lakh |
|
|
15.6 Lakh |
|
|
47.14 Lakh |
|
| M S Ramaiah Medical College |
45 Lakh |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
#1 NIRF
#3 NIRF
#8 NIRF
#4 NIRF
It is very important that candidates choose best colleges for themselves to go for Nephrology courses.
Candidates can see factors below during sleecting colleges that they love -
They can consider following factors while selecting colleges:
Accreditation
Ranking
Clinical Exposure
Entrance Exam Requirements
Placement & Research Opportunities
There are many colleges which offer Nephrology courses and also offer high placement package. Candidates can see table listing these colleges below -
Nephrology Colleges | Nephrology Course Fees (INR) |
|---|---|
16 LPA | |
15.6 LPA | |
Pushpagiri Institute of Medical Science Placements | 13.4 LPA |
13.21 LPA | |
13 LPA | |
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences Placements | 12 LPA |
11.5 LPA | |
10.8 LPA | |
10.2 LPA |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
Popular Private Nephrology Colleges in India
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Nephrology Career Scope: Jobs, Salary and Top Recruiters
Candidates who have pursued Nephrology degree get to work in hospitals as Nephrologists who treat patients with diseases related to kidneys. Because of rise in kidney-related diseases nowadays, 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 table below to see 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: Salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Nephrology Best Recruiters
Candidates can check table below to see list of top Nephrology recruiters in India:
|
Nephrology Top Recruiters |
|
|---|---|
|
Apollo Hospitals |
AIIMS |
|
Fortis Memorial Research Institute |
Wockhardt Hospital |
|
Max Hospital |
Medanta |
Scope for nephrologists is vast, as kidney diseases are increasing globally majorly because of rising cases of diabetes as well as hypertension.
Nephrologists can work in hospitals, kidney transplant centres and even dialysis units or they can either pursue research or even academics.
With all advancements in dialysis and transplant procedures, demand for nephrologists is at an all time high. India, USA, and UK, all these offer significant career opportunities in both clinical practice and research in nephrology.
Recommended Links for Nephrology Courses:
If a professional is in Nephrology field the highest they can earn gets around INR 30 LPA to INR 50 LPA. But this range is for those who are working in government hospitals.
Those who are in private hospitals or have their own clinic can earn even higher.
Nephrology Courses: FAQs
Candidates can check below for FAQs of Nephrology Courses.
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 also then they can go for DM or DNB in Nephrology.
These are certification courses which are given by some colleges to Nephrology professionals who want to learn new skills and have better knowledge about their field.
Candidates can see table listing such colleges below -
Nephrology Colleges | Courses Offered | Nephrology Course Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
PDCC in Nephrology | 6.77 Lakh | |
Certificate Course in Nephrology | 16,275 | |
| 70,000 - 1,55,000 |
Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.
Urologist and Nephrologist are two different professionals.
Urologists are doctors who study about urinary system and treatment of diseases related to it. But Nephrologists study about kidney, its structure, diseases and their treatment.
Candidates can see table below showing the comparison -
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 | ||
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 |
The main difference between a Nephrologist and a Consultant Nephrologist is about experience. Consultant Nephrologists are experienced professionals in this field.
Candidates can see table below showing key differences between Nephrologist and a Consultant Nephrologist -
Feature | Nephrologist | Consultant Nephrologist |
|---|---|---|
Qualification | ||
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 |
Below are 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)
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Nephrology is an advanced medical course that is done after completing MBBS course. Doing Nephrology online is not possible because of the tough curriculum it has and the need for candidates to stay present for practicals.
But there are some online courses which graduates can go for if they wish to advance in their career and have extra knowledge or skills.
Candidates can see table listing these online courses below -