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

Pediatrician courses focus on the medical care and treatment of infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatrician courses train healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing diseases and health conditions specific to young patients. 

Pediatrician courses cover areas such as child development, pediatric pharmacology, neonatology, immunization, and common childhood illnesses. Pediatrician courses are essential for ensuring the health and well-being of younger populations.

After completing Pediatrician courses, such as an MD Pediatrics, graduates have a broad scope of opportunities in the healthcare field.

Additionally, there are opportunities to sub-specialize in areas like pediatric cardiology, endocrinology, or neonatology, further expanding career prospects. Pediatricians can also engage in research, contribute to public health initiatives, or take on teaching roles in medical schools. 

With growing awareness of child health issues, the demand for skilled pediatricians continues to rise, offering diverse and fulfilling career paths.

Both DCH (Diploma in Child Health) and MD Pediatrics are postgraduate programs in pediatric medicine, but they differ in duration, depth, and career scope.

Here's a table comparing both:

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

MD and DNB Pediatrics are equivalent in terms of qualification, but they differ in training environment and assessment process.

The table below outlines the major differences:

No, pursuing Pediatrician course without an MBBS degree is not possible in India or most parts of the world. The MBBS is the foundational medical degree required to become a licensed doctor. After completing MBBS, one must pursue postgraduate training, such as an MD Pediatrics, to specialize in pediatric care. 

However, there are alternative healthcare roles in pediatrics, like Pediatric Nursing, child psychology, or pediatric physiotherapy, which do not require an MBBS but still allow professionals to work closely with children in medical settings.

For UG Pediatrics courses, such as nursing or allied health sciences, NEET is generally not required. However, if you want to become a pediatrician, you must first complete an MBBS, which requires clearing NEET UG. 

After obtaining the MBBS degree, those who wish to specialize in pediatrics must clear NEET PG to gain admission into postgraduate programs like MD Pediatrics. 

Therefore, while NEET is not needed for most UG pediatric-related courses, it is essential for medical students pursuing pediatric specialization.

No, you cannot pursue Pediatrician course after completing a BSc in Nursing. To pursue a pediatrician's career, an MBBS degree is mandatory, followed by a postgraduate specialisation in Pediatrics like MD/DNB Pediatrics.

However, BSc Nursing graduates can work in pediatric care settings such as NICUs or pediatric wards but they will serve as pediatric nurses, not licensed doctors.

No, you cannot pursue MD Pediatrics without an MBBS degree from a recognised medical institution. MBBS is the foundational requirement for any allopathic postgraduate medical programme in India.

Only candidates with an MBBS qualification and a valid NEET-PG score are eligible for MD Pediatrics. Graduates from other medical backgrounds like BAMS or BHMS are not allowed to enter this program.

Yes, an entrance exam is typically required for admission to MD Pediatrics programs in India. The most common entrance exam is the NEET-PG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduate courses).

NEET-PG is a national-level exam conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) for admission into various MD/MS courses, including Pediatrics, in government and private medical colleges across India.

Hello Dear,

It's very less predictable that you'll get admission into medical Post Graduation course for pediatrics. You need to appear the NEET PG examination for admission into MD in Paediatric courses.

Pediatrician courses can be challenging to study due to the vast amount of knowledge required to understand child development, diseases, and treatments unique to infants and children. 

Additionally, pediatricians need strong communication abilities to work with both children and their families. While Pediatrician courses are demanding, with dedication and a genuine passion for child healthcare, many students find them rewarding and manageable over time. 

Pediatrician courses are typically pursued as an MD rather than an MS. The MD Pediatrics is a PG medical degree that focuses on the comprehensive care of infants, children, and adolescents, including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of childhood diseases. In contrast, MS generally pertains to surgical specializations. Therefore, to specialize in pediatrics, one would pursue an MD rather than an MS.

Studying to be a pediatrician can be challenging due to the demanding nature of the coursework and the extensive knowledge required. The complexity of understanding child development, diagnosing a wide range of pediatric diseases, and staying updated with the latest medical advancements can be overwhelming. 

Additionally, the rigorous training involves long hours of study, practical rotations, and exams, which can be stressful. Pediatricians must also develop strong communication skills to interact effectively with both children and their families. 

Yes, pediatricians receive basic training in handling common childhood behavioral and psychological issues like ADHD, anxiety, autism, and developmental delays during their postgraduate studies.

However, for complex psychological disorders, pediatricians usually refer patients to child psychologists or psychiatrists. Pediatricians often work closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive care.

Yes, the Compulsory Rotating Internship during MBBS provides basic exposure to pediatrics through postings in pediatric wards, OPDs, and immunization clinics.

However, for in-depth knowledge and hands-on skills, pursuing MD/DNB Pediatrics is essential. MBBS internships help students assess if pediatrics suits their interest before choosing it as a postgraduate specialization.

MD Pediatrics is the best course in Pediatrics courses.

MD Pediatrics is a 3-year PG medical degree that focuses on the healthcare of infants, children, and adolescents. MD Pediatrics equips doctors with the knowledge and skills to diagnose, treat, and manage a wide range of childhood diseases and developmental issues. 

Both MD Pediatrics and DNB in Pediatrics are prestigious qualifications for pediatricians, but there are some differences between them. 

MD Pediatrics is a degree awarded by universities, and the course typically involves rigorous academic training and practical experience in pediatric care.

DNB Pediatrics is awarded by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) and is equivalent to MD in terms of specialisation and scope. 

Both qualifications are highly respected and allow you to practice as a pediatrician, with the choice often depending on personal preference, the reputation of the institution, and specific career goals. The core content and training in pediatric care are similar, though the institutions and training environments may differ.

A career after Pediatrician course can be financially rewarding, but the pay scale can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the type of healthcare facility. In urban areas and private hospitals, pediatricians often earn higher salaries compared to those in rural or public healthcare settings. 

Specialized pediatricians, like those in pediatric surgery or neonatology, tend to command higher earnings. While pediatrics may not always be as high-paying as some other medical specializations, the field offers long-term stability, growth opportunities, and the personal fulfilment of working with children and improving their health outcomes.

A Pediatrician career is considered highly rewarding both professionally and personally. Pediatricians play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of children, from infancy through adolescence. 

The Pediatrician career offers job stability, as there is always a demand for child healthcare specialists, and opportunities for growth in various subspecialties like pediatric cardiology or neonatology. 

Pediatrician course is one of the branches of medicine in which diagnosis and health-related issues are solved by the pediatrician. It is one of the promising careers in medical courses. In this profession, candidates can find lucrative job profiles in India or overseas. Because of the large number of growing of hospitals and health care centers, the demand for pediatricians is also increasing day by day. Aspirants can find jobs in medical colleges or training institutes as lecturers or research scholars.

Another career option for pediatricians is working in clinics, medical centers, and research laboratories. Candidates can work both in private and government hospitals on a regular basis. You can also work as a practitioner in research centers. You can join military service, Railways, and various other public sectors in medical departments.

Yes, BAMS or BHMS graduates can pursue pediatric specializations within their own medical systems, such as Kaumarbhritya (Ayurvedic pediatrics) or Homeopathic Pediatrics. These are separate from allopathic pediatrics.

However, they cannot pursue MD Pediatrics (Allopathy) or practice as allopathic pediatricians unless they earn an MBBS degree and meet the eligibility criteria set by NMC or other regulatory bodies.

To become a Pediatrician after Class 12, follow these steps:

• Take Science stream in 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (PCB).

• Appear for NEET UG and qualify to get admission into an MBBS program.

• Complete MBBS, which takes 5.5 years (including a 1-year internship).

• Prepare for and clear NEET PG to get into a postgraduate programme like MD in Pediatrics.

• Complete MD in Pediatrics, a 3-year specialised programme to become a certified pediatrician.

As you plan to become a pediatrician and are currently in 10th grade, it's great that you're thinking ahead. 

Here’s how to approach your first year in college:

• Focus on Science Courses: Ensure you take subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, as these are fundamental for medical studies.

• Excel in Exams: Aim to achieve high grades in your board exams to strengthen your application for medical college.

• Prepare for NEET: Start familiarizing yourself with the NEET exam pattern and syllabus, as it's crucial for medical school admissions.

• Build a Strong Foundation: Pay attention to foundational subjects in your first year of college, as they will be essential for your medical studies.

• Get Involved: Engage in activities that enhance your understanding of healthcare, such as volunteering or internships in medical settings.

• Seek Guidance: Connect with academic advisors or mentors who can provide guidance on course selection and career planning.

Becoming a pediatrician typically takes about 10 to 11 years. The career path includes:

• Pass Class 12: Complete Class 12 with a focus on Science courses in PCB subjects.

• MBBS (5.5 years): Enroll in a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery program, which includes both academic coursework and clinical training.

• Postgraduate Specialization (3 years): Pursue an MD Pediatrics or a similar postgraduate degree to specialize in pediatric care.

The average salary of a pediatrician in India ranges between INR 6 LPA to INR 15 LPA, depending on experience, qualifications, location, and type of healthcare setup.

Fresh MD Pediatrics graduates in government hospitals may start around INR 70,000 per month, while private practitioners or super-specialists in metro cities can earn significantly more. Income also increases with years of clinical practice and specialization.

Yes, pediatricians are trained to work in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) and Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs). They manage critically ill newborns and children with conditions like respiratory distress, sepsis, and congenital anomalies.

Those with super-specializations like DM Neonatology or Pediatric Critical Care are better suited for leadership roles in such units, especially in tertiary care hospitals or children's hospitals.

No, opening a private clinic is not compulsory for pediatricians. They can work in government hospitals, private hospitals, children's specialty clinics, research institutes, or as faculty in medical colleges.

Many pediatricians also take up corporate or NGO roles or even teleconsultation platforms. Opening a clinic is a personal choice and is often opted for long-term career growth and independence.

BAMS and BHMS graduates can pursue pediatric courses specific to Ayurveda (Kaumarbhritya) or Homeopathy Pediatrics. These offer knowledge of treating childhood illnesses within their respective systems.

They can also take certificate or Diploma programs in child care to work in integrated wellness centers, rural health missions, or Ayurvedic child care clinics, but cannot practice allopathic pediatrics unless they complete an MBBS.

MD Pediatrics equips students with a wide range of hands-on clinical skills essential for managing child healthcare. These include:

• Neonatal resuscitation and newborn care
• Diagnosis and management of pediatric infectious diseases
• Pediatric emergency and intensive care management
• Developmental assessment and growth monitoring
• Immunization protocols and preventive pediatrics
• Pediatric nutrition counseling
• Use of pediatric diagnostic tools (ECG, X-rays, etc.)
• Communication skills for dealing with children and parents

Pediatricians often work in tandem with psychologists and therapists to ensure holistic child health. This collaboration includes:

• Referrals: Pediatricians refer children showing signs of developmental delays, behavioral issues, or emotional disturbances.

• Multidisciplinary Planning: Jointly creating individualized treatment plans for conditions like autism or ADHD.

• Follow-Ups: Coordinating on progress reports and making medical adjustments based on therapy feedback.

• Parent Guidance: Offering unified advice and mental health support to families.