Choosing a career in alternative medicine often comes down to deciding between two prominent courses in India: Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) and Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS). Both degrees provide distinctive healthcare systems that cater to holistic treatment methods.
BAMS vs BHMS: Understanding Eligibility Criteria
Both BAMS and BHMS courses have specific eligibility requirements candidates must meet before applying. Primarily, these criteria focus on academic qualifications and entrance exams.
- BAMS Eligibility: Applicants should have completed 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects. A minimum aggregate score of 50% is mandatory in some universities. Admission often requires clearing entrance exams like NEET.
- BHMS Eligibility: Similar to BAMS, candidates must pass 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Most colleges demand a qualifying score in national or state-level medical entrance tests.
Detailed Comparison: BAMS vs BHMS Course Structure and Curriculum
Understanding the curriculum helps students grasp the core differences between BAMS and BHMS, shaping their expertise in alternative medicine.
| Aspect | BAMS (Ayurvedic Medicine) | BHMS (Homeopathic Medicine) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5.5 years including internship | 5.5 years including internship |
| Core Subjects | Anatomy, Physiology, Ayurvedic Pharmacology, Panchakarma, Herbal Medicine | Materia Medica, Organon of Medicine, Homeopathic Pharmacy, Repertory, Case Taking |
| Approach | Holistic with herbal and natural therapies based on ancient Indian traditions | Symptom-focused treatment using highly diluted substances according to homeopathy principles |
| Internship | 1 year clinical internship with practical training in Ayurvedic hospitals | 1 year clinical internship with exposure to homeopathic clinics |
Admission Process for BAMS vs BHMS in India
Admission procedures for these courses primarily depend on entrance exams and counseling conducted by various authorities.
- Entrance Examination: Most colleges require candidates to clear NEET-UG or respective state-level medical entrance exams to be eligible.
- Application Process: After exam results, candidates must participate in centralized counseling or institutional rounds based on their rank.
- Document Verification & Seat Allotment: Verified documents ensure smooth seat confirmation in preferred colleges offering BAMS or BHMS.
Advantages of Pursuing BAMS and BHMS Courses
Both degrees open unique career pathways and offer multiple benefits in the healthcare sector.
- BAMS: Indian government recognition, opportunity to practice Ayurvedic medicine, scope for research, academic roles, and private practice.
- BHMS: Growing demand for homeopathic treatments, licensing for professional practice, options in clinics, research, and wellness centers.
Top Colleges Offering BAMS and BHMS Courses in India
| BAMS Colleges | BHMS Colleges |
|---|---|
| Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi | Dr. D.Y. Patil Homeopathic Medical College, Pune |
| Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar | Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik |
| Institute of Medical Sciences, BHU | National Homeopathy Institute, Rajasthan |
Salary and Career Scope in Alternative Medicine: BAMS vs BHMS
Both streams offer promising career opportunities, although the earning potential and job profiles may vary.
| Factor | BAMS Career & Salary | BHMS Career & Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Job Roles | Ayurvedic Physician, Researcher, Pharmacist, Healthcare Consultant | Homeopathic Doctor, Researcher, Wellness Consultant, Pharmacist |
| Average Salary | ₹3-7 lakh per annum, increasing with experience | ₹2.5-6 lakh per annum, depending on expertise and location |
| Scope | Growing demand in India and abroad for herbal and holistic treatments | Increasing popularity of homeopathy for chronic diseases and wellness |