Choosing the right medical course is crucial for your career. Here’s a detailed comparison of MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH to help you make an informed decision.
1. Overview of MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH
MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery)
MBBS is a medical degree that focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases, performing surgeries, and general medical practices.
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery)
BDS is a professional dental course that specializes in oral and dental health, including surgeries, treatment, and preventive dental care.
AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy)
AYUSH courses focus on alternative medicine systems based on natural and traditional healing methods.
2. Course Duration and Structure
| Feature | MBBS | BDS | AYUSH |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5.5 years (including 1-year internship) | 5 years (including 1-year internship) | 5.5 years (including 1-year internship) |
| Focus | General medicine, surgery, and healthcare | Dental and oral health | Traditional medicine systems (Ayurveda, Homeopathy, etc.) |
| Internship | Mandatory in hospitals | Mandatory in dental hospitals/clinics | Mandatory in AYUSH hospitals |
| Specialization | Cardiology, Neurology, Surgery, Pediatrics, etc. | Orthodontics, Prosthodontics, Periodontics | Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Unani, Siddha, Yoga Therapy |
3. Admission Process
All three courses require clearing a national-level entrance exam.
- NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) – Required for MBBS, BDS, and AYUSH.
- Eligibility: 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- Minimum Marks: 50% for General, 40% for Reserved categories.
4. Career Opportunities & Salary
MBBS Career Options
- General Physician
- Surgeon
- Medical Researcher
- Hospital Administrator
Salary: ₹8-12 LPA (India), ₹20-50 LPA (Abroad)
BDS Career Options
- General Dentist
- Orthodontist
- Oral Surgeon
- Prosthodontist
Salary: ₹4-8 LPA (India), ₹15-30 LPA (Abroad)
AYUSH Career Options
- Ayurvedic/Homeopathy/Unani Doctor
- Yoga Therapist
- Alternative Medicine Practitioner
- Researcher in AYUSH
Salary: ₹4-8 LPA (India), ₹10-20 LPA (Abroad)
5. Pros and Cons
MBBS
- Pros: High demand, diverse career options, higher salary.
- Cons: Long study duration, competitive exams, expensive education.
BDS
- Pros: Shorter study duration, good work-life balance.
- Cons: Limited specialization, private practice is competitive.
AYUSH
- Pros: Alternative medicine is gaining popularity.
- Cons: Fewer job opportunities in mainstream hospitals.
6. Which One Should You Choose?
Choose MBBS if: You want to work as a doctor in general medicine or surgery.
Choose BDS if: You are passionate about dental health and oral surgery.
Choose AYUSH if: You believe in traditional medicine and want to promote alternative healing methods.
FAQs
Is AYUSH a good career option? Yes, but opportunities are still growing compared to MBBS.
Which has a better salary, MBBS or BDS? MBBS doctors usually earn more than BDS graduates.