MBBS is Key Pathway for Aspiring Doctors to Enter Medical Profession: NIIMS Dean

NIIMS Medical College & Hospital's present Dean Dr Ashutosh Niranjan is known for its commitment to medical education and healthcare services. Dr. Niranjan has made significant contributions to both academic and clinical domains, shaping the future of healthcare through his leadership. In an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com, he shared his vision for the Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences, available courses and other vital details. Read here...

Q. What specialisations in Medical/ Dental courses are available at NIIMS? 

Dr. Niranjan: Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences (NIIMS) provide specializations in Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Pathology, Microbiology, Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Community Medicine, Medicine, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Dentistry, Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy, Tuberculosis & Diseases, Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics, OTO-Rhinolaryngology, Radio-diagnosis, Radiotherapy, and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. 

 The dental departments available at NIIMS are Pedodontics, Oral Pathology, Oral Medicine and Radiology, Dental Materials, Dental Anatomy, Oral Histology and Community Dentistry. 

Q. What research opportunities are available on campus for students? 

Dr. Niranjan: The Community Medicine department plays a vital role in guiding students through their research activities, helping them develop important skills for public health practice. Typically, the department provides students with research topics and ideas aligned with ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) guidelines and priorities. These topics are usually chosen to address current public health issues, ensuring relevance to the community’s needs. 

For example, the research could focus on emerging diseases, health behaviour studies, or interventions that promote community wellness. The department might also encourage students to explore environmental health impacts, maternal and child health, or the effectiveness of public health policies. By working within these frameworks, students not only contribute to scientific knowledge but also help shape public health initiatives at the local and national levels. 

Q. What actions do NIIMS take for practical exposure of medical students?  

Dr. Niranjan: NIIMS offers hands-on training in which students work directly with patients under supervision. It organizes workshops, simulations, and skill labs to practice procedures and diagnostics. NIIMS also provides internships to students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. In addition, NIIMS arranges field visits, case discussions, and research projects to enhance practical learning and critical thinking. 

Q. How is the programme curriculum of medical courses at NIIMS? What future opportunities students may have after graduating? 

Dr. Niranjan: The program curriculum is designed in accordance with the guidelines of the National Medical Commission (NMC). The NMC curriculum is well-structured to support students' career development, focusing on competency-based education that enhances their skills and prepares them for professional practice. 

Q. What role do students play in your medical school’s development? 

Dr. Niranjan: In our medical school, students contribute to academic excellence, research, and community engagement. Their feedback on curriculum, teaching methods and clinical experiences plays a major role in shaping the educational framework. Students actively participate in research projects and healthcare outreach programs that enhance the institute’s reputation.  

Q. What kind of financial guidance do you provide your students? 

Dr. Niranjan: NIIMS provide financial guidance through scholarships and budgeting support. It informs students about available merit-based, need-based, and government scholarships. NIIMS also offers workshops on managing finances during studies and financial aid counselling for students facing financial challenges to ensure that they have the resources to complete their education. 

Q. What placement opportunities a student may have after completing the course? 

Dr. Niranjan: The placement opportunities for MBBS students are typically offered through various healthcare institutions, including government and private hospitals, clinics, and research organizations. Many medical colleges and universities have dedicated placement cells that assist students in securing internships, residencies, and post-graduation opportunities. These placements are often coordinated through college partnerships, career fairs, and clinical rotations during the course, helping students to gain practical experience and connect with potential employers in the medical field. 

Additionally, many students pursue further specialization in postgraduate courses after completing their MBBS, and placement opportunities are also available through these advanced programs. Overall, MBBS students benefit from a strong network of healthcare institutions that support their transition from academics to professional practice. 

Q. What are the flagship medical courses at the university? 

Dr. Niranjan: The flagship medical course typically refers to the MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) program, which is the primary undergraduate medical degree awarded to students pursuing a career in medicine. It is considered the cornerstone or flagship course in the field of medical education, providing a comprehensive foundation in medical sciences, clinical practice, and patient care. 

The MBBS course is often seen as the key pathway for aspiring doctors to enter the medical profession. It is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, and competencies required to diagnose, treat, and manage medical conditions, as well as to engage in research, public health initiatives, and continuous professional development. The program is competency-based, ensuring that students are not only well-versed in theoretical knowledge but are also trained in clinical skills through hands-on experience and patient interaction during their internships and clinical rotations. 

After completing the MBBS, graduates can pursue further specialization through postgraduate degrees (MD/MS), or they may choose to practice as general practitioners, depending on their interests and career goals. 

Read more:

• 47% of Our Students Receive Financial Assistance: Ashoka University VC
• 33% of Our Students Receive Scholarship Support: FLAME University VC
• Placement Data Released by Many Universities are Manipulated: JKLU VC