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

Updated on Dec 16, 2025 11:59 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.

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.

 

Q:   Can I pursue Nephrology course online?
A:

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 - 

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 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.

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Table of contents
  • 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
View More

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)
  • 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

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.

 

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 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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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 SS Dates

NEET PG

NEET PG Dates

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

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 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 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 -

 

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 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. 

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 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)

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

B. J. Medical College, Ahmedabad

1.2 Lakh

Institute of Medical Sciences, BHU

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)

CMC Vellore

4,500

Kasturba Medical College, Manipal

49.65 Lakh

SOA University

19.6 Lakh

Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences

30 Lakh

St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences

21.86 Lakh

Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences 21 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

M S Ramaiah Medical College

45 Lakh

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

 

118 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

109 Courses
7.11 K - 19.5 L
9 - 18 LPA

#2 NIRF

71 Courses
75 K - 63.21 L
9.5 - 15.8 LPA

#10 NIRF

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

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

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

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)

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 info is taken from other sources and can be different.

Popular Private Nephrology Colleges in India

2.84 L - 27.12 L
3.15 LPA

Medicine & Health Sciences Applications open. Apply Now

19 Courses
1.3 L - 3.95 L
2 LPA
5 Courses
75 K - 4 L
3.9 L - 10.8 L

Medicine & Health Sciences Applications open. Apply Now

3.6 L - 6.4 L
5.2 - 8.16 LPA

Medicine & Health Sciences Applications open. Apply Now

3.28 L - 44.25 L
0.4 LPA

Medicine & Health Sciences Applications open till Sep 1, 2026. Apply Now

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

 

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

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:

Immunology
Diabetology
PhD in Medicine

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

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.

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 also then they can go for DM or DNB in Nephrology.

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

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)

Kasturba Medical College, Manipal

PDCC in Nephrology

6.77 Lakh

Medvarsity

 

Certificate Course in Nephrology

16,275

MediCOLL Learning

  • Fellowship in Nephrology
  • Certificate in Nephrology

70,000 - 1,55,000

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

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

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

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

 

Q:   What is the difference between a Nephrologist and a Consultant Nephrologist?
A:

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

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

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)

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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