Top Medical Courses After 12th You Should Consider

Top Medical Courses After 12th You Should Consider

Overview

Completing your 12th standard and deciding on a career path in the medical field can be exciting! There's an extensive range of medical courses available in India, offering diverse specializations and career opportunities within the healthcare sector.

Top Medical Courses after 12th to Consider

Here's a breakdown of the most popular and rewarding medical courses you can pursue after completing your 12th with the science stream (Physics, Chemistry, Biology):

Bachelors of Optometry (B.Optom):

Bachelor of Optometry is one of the best and valuable medical courses to pursue after the 12th. The course offers the students a complete understanding of the functions of the human eye. It covers various procedures and techniques imperative for diagnosing and treating visual issues and ensuring optimal eye health. With this course, gain expertise in examining eyes, prescribing corrective lenses, and managing eye diseases.

  • Course Duration: 4 years
  • Eligibility: 12th Pass or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry & Biology, with a minimum aggregate of 40% marks
  • Additional Benefits: Addresses the growing need for eyecare specialists, with scope for private practice.
  • Course Curriculum: Ocular anatomy and physiology, optics, contact lenses, vision therapy, etc.
  • Exams Accepted: College-specific or state-level entrance exams.
  • Regulation Body: Optometry Council of India (OCI) (formation in progress)
  • Average Fees: INR 1-4 Lakhs (approx., varies by institution)
  • Average Salary: INR 3-8 Lakhs per annum
  • Higher Education: Master of Optometry (M.Optom)
  • Job Profiles: Optometrist, Vision Therapist, Low Vision Specialist, Ophthalmic Assistant

Bachelor of Science in Medical Lab Technology (B.Sc. MLT):

BSc. MLT is a graduate program focusing on the study related to medical laboratory technology. The course syllabus includes biochemistry, hematology, microbiology and immunology. In this course, students learn to analyse samples, conduct diagnostic tests and operate lab equipment. The medical lab technologist plays a pivotal role in patient care by assisting in the diagnosis of diseases.

  • Course Duration: 3 years
  • Eligibility: 12th Pass or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry & Biology, with a minimum aggregate of 40% marks
  • Additional Benefits: Vital role in diagnosing diseases, supporting doctors' treatment decisions, and aiding in medical research.
  • Course Curriculum: Biochemistry, microbiology, hematology, immunology, clinical pathology, etc.
  • Minimum Age: 17 years (for most institutions)
  • Exams Accepted: Institution-specific or state-level entrance exams.
  • Number of Seats: (Data unavailable – it varies greatly)
  • Number of Colleges: A wide network of colleges throughout India.
  • Regulation Body: Allied Health Professional Councils of respective states
  • Average Fees: INR 50,000 - 3 Lakhs (approx., varies by institution)
  • Average Salary: INR 3-5 Lakhs per annum (starting)
  • Higher Education: M.Sc. in Medical Lab Technology, PhD MLT
  • Job Profiles: Medical Lab Technician, Lab Technologist, Blood Bank Technician, Research Associate

Bachelors of Science in Nursing:

BSc. Nursing is one of the most recognised courses in the medical field. The course prepares students in critical care to become skilled and compassionate nurses. Values necessary to have a successful career as a nurse or midwife are instilled in this course program. The course curriculum includes nursing theory, medical sciences, patient care and practical clinical experience. Graduates are trained to provide healthcare services, assist doctors in medical settings and administer medications. If you want to be in the medical field and are passionate about caregiving, BSc. Nursing is definitely for you.

  • Duration: 4 years
  • Eligibility:12th pass with science (PCB) with aggregate of 45% marks
  • Additional Benefits: Nurses are in high demand, ensuring job security, and offer opportunities for career growth through specialization.
  • Course Curriculum: Anatomy, physiology, nursing principles, pharmacology, community health, mental health nursing, etc.
  • Minimum Age: 17 years (for most institutions)
  • Exams Accepted: Institution-specific entrance exams, state-level nursing entrance exams, or national exams like NEET-UG.
  • Number of Seats: Varies greatly across institutions.
  • Number of Colleges: A wide network of nursing colleges throughout India, both public and private.
  • Regulation Body: Indian Nursing Council (INC)
  • Average Fees: INR 1-5 Lakhs (approx., varies by institution, government colleges are often less expensive)
  • Average Salary: INR 3-6 Lakhs per annum (starting, can increase with experience, specialization, and location)
  • Institutes in India: Top institutes include AIIMS Delhi, CMC Vellore, PGIMER Chandigarh, JIPMER Pondicherry, etc.
  • Higher Education: M.Sc. Nursing (specializations in critical care, pediatrics, oncology, etc.), Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing (for those with diploma qualifications) & PhD in Nursing
  • Job Profiles: Staff Nurse (hospitals, clinics, community health centers), Critical Care Nurse, Operation Theatre Nurse, Nursing Educator, Nurse Researcher & Nursing Administrator

Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS):

MBBS is one of the most sought-after courses in the medical field after 12th. This undergraduate program trains students in the fields of medicine and surgery. The MBBS degree is globally recognised as the standard qualification for physicians and medical professionals. It gives students a thorough understanding of medicine and practical skills by combining the study of surgery and medicine. In addition to other topics, students study pharmacology, anatomy, pathology, and physiology. It's an essential step on the path to getting a medical licence. Under this course, aspirants can secure designations like surgeons, physicians, medical officers, etc.

  • Course Duration: 5.5 years (including internship)
  • Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th with Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB). Qualifying NEET exam.
  • Additional Benefits: Prestigious degree, wide array of specializations for higher studies.
  • Course Curriculum: Anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, pathology, community medicine, etc.
  • Minimum Age 17 years
  • Exam Accepted NEET-UG
  • Number of Seats Approx. 83,000+
  • Number of Colleges Approx. 596+
  • Regulation Body National Medical Commission (NMC)
  • Average Fees: INR 10,000 - 6 Lakhs (government); INR 20 Lakhs - 1 Crore+ (private)
  • Average Salary: INR 5-10 Lakhs/annum (starting)
  • Institutes in India: AIIMS Delhi, CMC Vellore, JIPMER Pondicherry, etc.
  • Higher Education: MD, MS, DM, MCh
  • Job Profile: Doctor, Surgeon, Researcher

Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)

BDs is an undergraduate program that focuses on dental health and surgery. The course curriculum covers radiology, oral anatomy, periodontics, orthodontics and more. The course trains students to become skilful dentists who diagnose and treat oral health problems, perform surgeries, and ensure optimal oral health for patients. Students study dentures, dental surgery, and dental issues during this course.

  • Course Duration: 5 years
  • Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th with PCB, qualifying NEET exam.
  • Additional Benefits: Specialize in oral healthcare, good earning potential, private practice options.
  • Course Curriculum: Dental anatomy, oral pathology, prosthodontics, etc.
  • Minimum Age: 17 years
  • Exam Accepted: NEET-UG
  • Number of Seats: Approx. 26,000+
  • Number of Colleges: 300+
  • Regulation Body: Dental Council of India (DCI)
  • Average Fees: INR 1 Lakh - 20 Lakhs
  • Average Salary: INR 4 -10 Lakhs/annum (starting)
  • Institutes in India: Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, etc.
  • Higher Education: MDS
  • Job Profile: Dentist, Oral Surgeon, Public Health Specialist

Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS)

Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine deep dives into traditional Indian medicine, which uses herbs and natural plant extracts as medication. This program is created to familiarise students with the profound ideas of Ayurveda and provide them with the tools to use these ideas when treating patients. The students explore herbs while understanding diet and lifestyle practices to treat the patients.

  • Course Duration: 5.5 years
  • Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th with PCB, qualify relevant entrance exams.
  • Additional Benefits: Focus on traditional Indian medicine and holistic healing.
  • Course Curriculum: Ayurveda principles, herbal medicine, Sanskrit, etc.
  • Minimum Age: 17 years
  • Exam Accepted: NEET-UG in most states, state-level exams
  • Number of Seats: Approx 41,000+
  • Number of Colleges: 480+
  • Regulation Body: Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM)
  • Average Fees: INR 50,000 - 3 Lakhs
  • Average Salary: INR 5-8 Lakhs/annum (starting)
  • Institutes in India: BHU-IMS Varanasi, National Institute of Ayurveda Jaipur, etc.
  • Higher Education: MD (Ayurveda)
  • Job Profile: Ayurvedic physician, Researcher, Consultant

Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharma)

Bachelor of Pharmacy, also known as B. Pharma, is an undergraduate program focusing on pharmaceutical sciences. The study includes learning about drug formulation, composition, development and its impact on human health. It’s an ideal course for individuals interested in building a career in drug testing, different medicines, medicine dosage and more. The curriculum covers subjects like pharmacology, pharmaceutical technology and medicinal chemistry. After completing the course, individuals can contribute to the healthcare industry and pharmaceutical field by becoming pharmacists.

  • Course Duration: 4 years
  • Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Mathematics.
  • Additional Benefits: Opportunities beyond retail pharmacy; work in research, pharmaceuticals, and quality control sectors.
  • Course Curriculum: Pharmaceutics, pharmacology, chemistry, pharmaceutical analysis, etc.
  • Minimum Age: 17 years (for most institutions)
  • Exams Accepted: State-level pharmacy entrance tests, college-specific exams.
  • Number of Seats: (Data unavailable – it varies greatly)
  • Number of Colleges: A wide network of colleges throughout India.
  • Regulation Body: Pharmacy Council of India (PCI)
  • Average Fees: INR 1-5 Lakhs (approx., varies by institution)
  • Average Salary: INR 3-6 Lakhs per annum (starting)
  • Institutes in India: Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, NIPERs, Jamia Hamdard, etc.
  • Higher Education:M.Pharm, Pharm D, PhD Pharmacy
  • Job Profiles: Retail Pharmacist, Drug Inspector, Research Scientist, Hospital Pharmacist, Quality Control Analyst

Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT):

A bachelor's degree in physiotherapy is an undergraduate program emphasising physical therapy and rehabilitation to treat illnesses and impairments and enhance general health. Students develop knowledge of anatomy, physiology, modalities, and therapeutic activities that help people regain mobility and improve their quality of life. The purpose of a BPT course is to prepare students for careers as professional physiotherapists by providing them with specialised education in the field of physiotherapy.

  • Course Duration: 4.5 years (including internship)
  • Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th with Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
  • Additional Benefits: Help patients regain mobility, manage pain, and prevent long-term disabilities. Offers a blend of science and compassion.
  • Course Curriculum: Anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, exercise therapy, electrotherapy, rehabilitation techniques, etc.
  • Minimum Age: 17 years (for most institutions)
  • Exams Accepted: Institution-specific or state-level entrance exams.
  • Number of Seats: (Data unavailable – it varies greatly)
  • Number of Colleges: A wide network of colleges throughout India.
  • Regulation Body: Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP)
  • Average Fees: INR 1-5 Lakhs (approx., varies by institution)
  • Average Salary: INR 3-8 Lakhs per annum
  • Institutes in India: CMC Vellore, JIPMER Pondicherry, National Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, etc.
  • Higher Education: MPT (specializations in orthopedics, neurology, sports, etc.), PhD
  • Job Profiles: Physiotherapist, Sports Physiotherapist, Rehabilitation Specialist, Consultant

Bachelors of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry (B.V.Sc. & AH):

A bachelor's degree in veterinary science and animal husbandry is ideal for candidates who love animals and wish to work for or own an organisation that breeds and cares for animals. Animal Husbandry mainly focuses on the Agricultural practice of raising and breeding livestock. In contrast, veterinary science aims to offer the knowledge needed to treat, nourish, and breed animals. A veterinarian ensures animals' overall well-being, treats disease in animals, and performs surgeries.

  • Course Duration: 5.5 years (including internship)
  • Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  • Additional Benefits: Broader focus on livestock management and production, opening doors in related industries.
  • Course Curriculum: Builds on B.V.Sc with additional subjects like animal husbandry, nutrition, farm management, etc.
  • Exams Accepted: State-level veterinary entrance tests, NEET-UG (for some colleges).
  • Regulation Body: Veterinary Council of India (VCI)
  • Average Fees: INR 2-10 Lakhs (approx., varies by institution, government colleges are less expensive)
  • Average Salary: INR 4-8 Lakhs per annum (starting, can be higher with experience)
  • Institutes in India: Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU), etc.
  • Higher Education: Master of Veterinary Science (MVSc - with specializations), PhD
  • Job Profiles: Veterinarian, Animal Husbandry Officer, Livestock Development Officer, Entrepreneur (poultry, dairy, etc.)

Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS):

Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery is one of the most preferred career options after 12th. BHMS explores the world of holistic healing. This course uses alternative medicine system to diagnose and treat various illness. Homoeopathy aims to stimulate the body's natural healing abilities using minute doses of natural substances.

  • Course Duration: 5.5 years (including a 1-year internship)
  • Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  • Additional Benefits: Offers a non-invasive treatment approach focused on stimulating the body's natural healing abilities.
  • Course Curriculum: Homeopathic philosophy, organon of medicine, anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, surgery, etc.
  • Minimum Age: 17 years (for most institutions)
  • Exams Accepted: NEET-UG, state-level AYUSH entrance exams.
  • Number of Seats: Limited (varies by college)
  • Number of Colleges: A network of homeopathy colleges across India.
  • Regulation Body: Central Council of Homeopathy (CCH)
  • Average Fees: INR 1-5 Lakhs (approx., varies by institution, government colleges are less expensive)
  • Average Salary: INR 3-6 Lakhs per annum (starting, can increase with experience and private practice)
  • Institutes in India: National Institute of Homoeopathy (NIH) Kolkata, Dr. B.R. Sur Homoeopathic Medical College - Delhi, etc.
  • Higher Education: MD (Homeopathy), PhD
  • Job Profiles: Homeopathic Doctor (private practice, government clinics), Researcher, Lecturer, Consultant

Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS):

Bachelor of Unani Medicine & Surgery is a medical program studying the Unani medicine and surgery field. Unani medicine is a traditional medicinal system connected with Greek, Persian and Arabic medicine. The student learns to diagnose and treat diseases using dietary modifications, natural herbs and holistic practices.

  • Course Duration: 5.5 years (including a 1-year internship)
  • Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Proficiency in Urdu is often preferred.
  • Additional Benefits: Focuses on disease prevention and health promotion through a holistic approach using natural remedies.
  • Course Curriculum: Unani principles, anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, preventive medicine, surgery, etc.
  • Exams Accepted: NEET-UG, state-level AYUSH entrance exams.
  • Regulation Body: Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM)
  • Average Fees: INR 1-5 Lakhs (approx., varies by institution, government colleges are less expensive)
  • Average Salary: INR 3-6 Lakhs per annum (starting, can increase with experience)
  • Institutes in India: National Institute of Unani Medicine (NIUM) Bangalore, Ajmal Khan Tibbiya College - Aligarh, etc.
  • Higher Education: MD (Unani), PhD in Unani medicine
  • Job Profiles: Unani Physician, Researcher, Lecturer, Consultant, Formulation Expert (herbal products)

Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery (BSMS):

Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery or BSMS is an undergraduate program covering medicine following AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa and Homoeopathy) medical system. The course focuses on the traditional Siddha medical practices in association with allopathic medicine. Various health concerns related to the seven elements of plasma, blood, fat, muscle, nerve, bone and semen are treated using dietary recommendations, herbal remedies and particular treatment procedures.

  • Course Duration: 5.5 years (including a 1-year internship)
  • Eligibility: Minimum 50% in 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
  • Additional Benefits: Ancient medical system originated in South India, using herbal and mineral-based therapies.
  • Course Curriculum: Siddha principles, anatomy, physiology, pathology, herbal pharmacology, toxicology, etc.
  • Exams Accepted: NEET-UG, state-level AYUSH entrance exams.
  • Regulation Body: Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM)
  • Average Fees: INR 1-5 Lakhs (approx., varies by institution, government colleges are less expensive)
  • Average Salary: INR 3-6 Lakhs per annum (starting, can increase with experience)
  • Institutes in India: National Institute of Siddha (NIS) Chennai, Government Siddha Medical College - Chennai, etc.
  • Higher Education: MD (Siddha), PhD Siddha
  • Job Profiles: Siddha Physician, Researcher, Lecturer, Consultant

Let Your Passion Guide You

Choosing the right medical course depends on your interests, skills, and career goals. Research thoroughly, explore various specializations, and align your passion with the opportunities this diverse field offers!