When considering a career in Alternative Medicine, two prominent courses in India stand out: Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) and Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS). Both degrees offer unique approaches to healthcare, rooted in centuries-old traditions.
BAMS is a 5-year UG course, whereas, BHMS is a 5.5-year UG course. Both courses need NEET scores for admission in India.
BAMS focuses on Ayurveda practices, emphasizing natural remedies and holistic health, while BHMS centres on Homeopathy, a system based on the principle of treating ‘like with like’.
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There is a 90% more chance of getting best college recommendations by sharing preferences.This article delves into the key differences, educational pathways, career prospects, and philosophies underlying these two distinct medical fields, providing a comprehensive guide for aspiring practitioners.
Q: How many times can I appear for NEET?
According to NTA a candidate can appear for NEET any number of times. There is no restriction on the number of attempts permitted. Moreover, ever since the upper age limit of NEET has been removed, there is even more flexibility in terms of the number of NEET attempts.
The exam is conducted once a year, hence candidates can appear only once in an academic year. But unless candidates fulfil the eligibility criteria, they would not be able to get admission even if they score the qualifying cutoff marks for NEET.
Q: Can I get MBBS admission with a 300 score in NEET 2024?
It is possible to get admission to a private medical college with a score of 300 in NEET 2023. For government medical college, one should ideally obtain a score above 600. The NEET cutoff for the Government medical colleges vary as per the institute rank and round of counselling. Hence, it can be said that a score of 300 in NEET 2023 may not be sufficient for admission to Government medical colleges. As per past years' trends, a score between 500 to 700 or above is in the cutoff marks for NEET.
Q: Is there any age limit for NEET exam?
The upper age limit criterion was removed by NMC on March 9, 2022, based on the judgment made by the Supreme Court of India. Earlier, the case was under trial in the apex court. However, there is a lower age limit of 17 years as of December 31 of the academic year. Unless candidates meet the lower age limit criterion, they would not be considered eligible to appear for NEET.
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BAMS vs BHMS: Highlights
Before admission, candidates must consider various factors and key points since both courses share similarities. Candidates can check the table below to see the highlights of the MBBS vs BDS course details.
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| Particulars |
BAMS |
BHMS |
|---|---|---|
| Course Level |
UG |
UG |
| Course Duration |
5 years |
5.5 years |
| Course Fee |
INR 20,000 - INR 3 Lakh |
INR 1.5 Lakh - INR 3 Lakh |
| Admission Criteria |
Entrance-Based |
Entrance-Based |
| Eligibility Criteria |
Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) subjects and 50% to 60%. |
Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) subjects and 50% to 60%. |
| Entrance Exams |
NEET |
NEET |
| Popular Colleges |
Banaras Hindu University, Dr D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Parul University, etc. |
Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Parul University, MUHS, Kerala University of Health Sciences, etc. |
| Job Profiles |
Business Development Officer, Ayurvedic Doctor, Category Manager, Resident Medical Officer, Jr. Clinical Trial Coordinator, Medical Representative, etc. |
Homoeopathic Doctors, Public Health Specialists, Private Practitioners, Pharmacists, etc. |
| Average Salary |
INR 3 LPA - INR 15 LPA |
INR 4 LPA - INR 7 LPA |
| Top Recruiters |
Government/Private Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Ayurvedic Clinics, Own Businesses, Wellness Centres, etc. |
Bharat Homeopathic, Avontix Solution Private Limited, Patanjali Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd, Bharat Homeopathic, Positive Health Science Pvt. Ltd |
Relevant Links on BAMS vs BHMS:
Difference Between BAMS vs BHMS
What is BAMS?
Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) is a 5-year UG course that focuses on the study of Ayurveda, an ancient system of Medicine with roots in the Indian subcontinent.
BAMS covers various aspects of Ayurvedic Medicine, modern medical science, and surgery. BAMS course aims to integrate traditional Ayurvedic practices with contemporary medical knowledge, enabling graduates to diagnose and treat patients using a holistic approach. Students learn about herbal medicine, diet, lifestyle changes, and therapies to promote health and well-being.
Q: Can I get an MBBS seat with a NEET score of 350?
If you belong to SC /ST category, you can get a MBBS seat with 350. for OBC and general category, cut-off score is much more higher than 350. So, prepare well. All the best.
Q: Can a class 12 student appear for NEET?
A Class 12 student can appear for NEET, provided he/she fulfills the eligibility criteria for the exam stated by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the exam conducting body. Although there is no upper age limit for appearing in NEET, but the lower age limit is still applicable. A candidate must of at least 17 years as of December 31 of the academic year. Unless candidates meet the lower age limit criterion, they would not be considered eligible to appear for NEET for the particular year. The other factors of eligibility include studying Physics, Chemistry and Biology as core subjects.
Q: How many attempts are allowed in NTA NEET UG exam?
There is no limit to the number of attempts to appear in the NTA NEET UG exam. While NEET UG is conducted once a year and candidates can appear only once in one year, an overall basis, an aspirant can appear for the exam as many times as he/she wishes to. Given the fact that the upper age limit has been removed, there is no barrier to the highest number of attempts.
Q: What is the minimum NEET score required to get an MBBS seat?
According to last year's NEET cutoff marks, a General or OBC category candidate should secure at least 500 marks to get an MBBS seat at a standard medical college in India. However, for a reserved category candidate, a score of 300 to 400 may get them an MBBS seat. Students must note that the minimum NEET score mentioned here is indicatie and not absolute. The minimum marks or the NEET cutoff marks will vary based on the qualifying cutoff, number of seats, number of aplications, andother factors. Candidates with a relatively low score must be patient and participate in multiple rounds of counselling untill they get the seat of their choice. Candidates may also participate in both national as well as state-level counsellings to expand their chances of admission.
Q: Which is better Parul University or Navrachana University?
The comparison table given below represents the comparative data of Narvrachana University and Parul University placements 2023:
| University Name | the highest Package (2023) | Students Placed (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Navrachana University | INR 9 LPA | 91 (BTech, MTech, MBA) |
| Parul University | INR 23 LPA | 2,100 |
NOTE: The above-mentioned Parul University placement data is gathered from multiple media reports.
What is BHMS?
Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) is a 5.5-year UG course centred on the study and practice of Homeopathy, a system of alternative medicine founded on the principle of treating patients with highly diluted substances to stimulate the body's natural healing processes.
BHMS students receive a comprehensive education in homeopathic philosophy, materia medica, repertory, and clinical training, along with basic medical sciences like anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology.
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BAMS vs BHMS: Eligibility
Both BAMS and BHMS are UG degrees in Alternative Medicine. Candidates must note that specific eligibility criteria can vary between different states and institutions offering these courses. Also, it's advisable to check with the respective colleges or universities for precise requirements and any entrance exams that may be applicable.
Candidates can check the table below to see the difference between the eligibility criteria for BAMS and BHMS courses.
| Parameters |
MBBS |
BDS |
|---|---|---|
| Education |
Class 12 in Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) subjects. |
Class 12 in the Science stream with Physics, Chemistry and Biology |
| Minimum Aggregate Percentage |
50% |
50% |
| Age Limit |
17 |
17 |
| Entrance Exam |
NEET |
NEET |
Learn more about BAMS and BHMS courses:
BAMS Courses: Fees Details, Duration, Subjects, Admission Process
BHMS Course: Fees Details, Duration, Subjects, Admission Process
BAMS vs BHMS: Entrance Exam
Checking the specific requirements of the desired institution or state is essential to understand the complete admission process.
NEET is the primary entrance exam for admission to BAMS and BHMS courses in IndiaWA.
Further, since the entrance exam needed for BAMS admission and BHMS admission is the same, the candidates can check the table below to see the NEET details.
| Particulars |
NEET Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Body |
|
| Mode of exam |
Offline |
| Exam Syllabus |
The NEET syllabus includes Physics, Chemistry and Biology topics from Class 11 and 12 |
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BAMS vs BHMS: Syllabus
Both courses include extensive theoretical and practical training, preparing students to practice in their respective fields. The syllabi for BAMS and BHMS differ significantly as they focus on distinct systems of Medicine—Ayurveda and Homeopathy, respectively.
Also, candidates can check a general outline of the semester-wise BAMS and BHMS syllabus given in the table below.
| Semesters |
BAMS |
BHMS |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 |
|
|
| Year 2 |
|
|
| Year 3 |
|
|
| Year 4 |
|
|
Learn more about BAMS vs BHMS:
BHMS Syllabus 2024: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books
BAMS Syllabus 2024: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books
BAMS vs BHMS: Top Colleges
Choosing between BAMS and BHMS must depend on the candidate’s interest in either Ayurveda or Homeopathy, as they represent distinct systems of Alternative Medicine with different philosophies and treatment approaches.
Here are some of the top colleges in India offering BAMS and BHMS courses:
Top BAMS Colleges in India
BAMS colleges are esteemed for their comprehensive curriculum in Ayurveda, practical training in traditional therapies, and research opportunities.
Candidates can check the table below to see the popular BAMS colleges in India:
| BAMS Colleges |
BAMS Course Fees |
|---|---|
| Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University) |
28.88 L |
| Parul University |
16.11 L |
| Kerala University of Health Sciences |
2.48 L - 2.75 L |
| SGT University, Gurgaon |
15.72 L |
| MUHS |
1.15 L |
| Rama University, Kanpur |
10.64 L |
| Tilak Ayurved Mahavidyalaya |
2.72 L |
| College of Ayurved, Bharati Vidyapeeth |
22.5 L |
| IIMT University |
10.78 L |
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Best Ayurved Colleges in India 2024: Admissions, Fees, Ranking 2024, Courses, Placements, Cut Off
Top BHMS Colleges
BHMS colleges are recognized for their rigorous academic programs in homeopathy, clinical training facilities, and research opportunities.
Candidates can check the table below to see the popular BHMS colleges in India:
| BHMS Colleges |
BHMS Course Fees |
|---|---|
| Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth |
11.25 L |
| Parul University |
5.26 L |
| Kerala University of Health Sciences |
1.13 L |
| MUHS |
1.5 L |
| RKDF University, Bhopal |
6.57 L |
| Kaloji Narayana Rao University of Health Sciences |
2.93 L |
| Parul University |
5.26 L |
| Padmashree Dr.D.Y.Patil Homoeopathic Medical College |
9.9 L |
| Nehru Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital |
14.04 K |
Relevant Links for BAMS vs BHMS:
Best Homeopathy Colleges in India: Ranking, Admissions, Fees, Courses, Placements, Cut Off
BAMS vs BHMS: Jobs and Salary
In India, both BAMS and BHMS graduates have opportunities for employment across various sectors.
Choosing between BAMS and BHMS should align with the candidate’s interest in either Ayurvedic or Homeopathic medicine, as both fields offer rewarding career paths with opportunities for growth and specialization in India.
BAMS Salary in India
The BAMS salary for graduates in India can vary based on several factors such as experience, location, type of employer (government/private), and specialization.
Here are some common BAMS job profiles in India:
| Job Profiles |
Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Physicians/BAMS Doctors |
INR 7.4 LPA |
| Clinical Research Associates |
INR 4.3 LPA |
| Drug Manufacturers |
INR 2.9 LPA |
| Health Supervisor/Therapists |
INR 3.4 LPA |
| Medical Supervisors |
INR 2.6 LPA |
Note: The salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.
Learn more about BAMS Career here
BHMS Salary in India
The BHMS salary for graduates in India varies depending on factors such as experience, location, type of employer, and specialization.
Here are some common BHMS job profiles in India:
| Job Type |
Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Homeopathic Doctor |
INR 3.4 LPA |
| Public Health Specialist |
INR 11.3 LPA |
| Private Practitioner |
INR 6.5 LPA |
| INR 2.6 LPA |
|
| Teacher/Lecturer |
INR 6.5 LPA |
Learn more about BHMS Career here
Helpful Links for BAMS vs BHMS Courses:
BAMS vs BHMS: Academic Scope
Both BAMS and BHMS are UG Medical courses, each focusing on different systems of Medicine. Choosing between BAMS and BHMS must depend on the candidate’s interest in either Ayurvedic or Homeopathic medicine, as well as the availability of educational opportunities and career prospects in their region.
Further, graduates of BAMS and BHMS can apply for the same kinds of courses after graduating. These are as follows:
| Courses |
Duration |
|---|---|
| MD (Doctor of Medicine) is a postgraduate specialization pursued after completing MBBS, focusing on advanced medical knowledge and clinical training in specialized fields. |
|
| Master of Surgery (MS) is a postgraduate specialization pursued after completing MBBS, focusing on advanced surgical training and expertise in various surgical disciplines. |
|
| MBA in Hospital Management |
The MBA in Hospital Management is a specialized PG course designed to equip healthcare professionals with the managerial skills and knowledge needed to effectively run healthcare facilities. |
| Clinical Research courses are designed to train healthcare professionals and researchers in the methodologies and regulations governing clinical trials and research studies. |
|
| Public Health Management courses are tailored to equip professionals with the skills needed to address public health challenges effectively. |
Helpful Links for BAMS vs BHMS courses:
BAMS vs BHMS FAQs
Q. Which is better than BAMS or BHMS?
A. Choosing between BAMS and BHMS ultimately depends on individual preferences, career aspirations, and interests in specific medical philosophies.
BAMS focuses on Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional Indian system emphasizing natural remedies and holistic health approaches. BHMS, on the other hand, centres on Homeopathic medicine, which utilizes highly diluted substances to stimulate the body's self-healing.
Both fields are respected within alternative medicine and regulated by their respective councils in India.
Q. Who earns more, BAMS or BHMS?
A. The average BAMS salary in India is INR 4.2 Lakh, on the other hand, that of a BHMS is INR 1 LPA.
The earning potential of practitioners with a BAMS or BHMS can vary based on several factors such as location, experience, and specialization.
In general, salaries can vary widely, but both fields can offer competitive earning opportunities. Ayurveda and Homeopathy both have their markets and patient bases, which can influence income levels.
Q. Which course is simpler - BAMS or BHMS?
A. Determining whether BAMS or BHMS is simpler is subjective and depends on individual aptitudes and interests.
The perceived simplicity may vary; those with a strong interest in herbal medicine and traditional healing might find BAMS more intuitive, while those fascinated by the principles of Homeopathy might consider BHMS easier to grasp. Ultimately, the simplicity of each course is relative to one's passion and aptitude for the respective medical systems.
Q. Can BAMS graduates practice Homeopathy, and vice versa?
A. In India, BAMS graduates are not officially authorized to practice Homeopathy, and similarly, BHMS graduates are not permitted to practice Ayurveda.
Each medical system is governed by its respective regulatory council—the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) for Ayurveda and the Central Council of Homeopathy (CCH) for Homeopathy. These councils ensure that practitioners have received adequate education and training specific to their field.
Therefore, while BAMS and BHMS graduates have comprehensive knowledge of their respective disciplines, practising outside their trained system would require additional qualifications and adherence to regulatory guidelines.
Q. What are the future trends in BAMS and BHMS education and practice?
A. The future of BAMS and BHMS education and practice is poised for significant evolution, driven by several emerging trends:
- Integration with Modern Medicine: There is a growing trend towards integrating traditional and alternative medicine with modern medical practices.
- Increased Research and Evidence-Based Practice: There is a push for more rigorous research and evidence-based practice in both Ayurveda and Homeopathy.
- Technological Advancements: The incorporation of technology in education and practice is becoming more prevalent.
- Regulatory Changes and Standardization: Efforts are being made to standardize education and practice across different regions, ensuring high-quality training and consistent regulatory standards.
- Public Awareness and Demand: There is an increasing public awareness and demand for natural and holistic health treatments.
Q. What are the challenges faced by BAMS and BHMS practitioners today?
A. BAMS and BHMS practitioners face several challenges in today's healthcare landscape:
- Recognition and Integration: One of the primary challenges is gaining recognition and integration into mainstream healthcare systems.
- Education and Training Standards: Ensuring consistent and high-quality education and training standards across institutions is crucial.
- Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Both fields are increasingly focusing on evidence-based practice and rigorous research.
- Regulatory Issues: Regulatory frameworks can differ widely between regions, affecting licensure, practice guidelines, and professional mobility for BAMS and BHMS practitioners.
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