The comparison between MBBS vs MD can be made based on the number of Institutes, academic qualifications, career prospects, eligibility criteria, course duration, etc.
Table of Contents
The key difference between MBBS and MD is MBBS is an undergraduate degree, while MD is a postgraduate degree pursued by those who have completed MBBS. MBBS vs MD entails a broad concept that needs a thorough comprehension of each course.
MBBS, which stands for the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, is an undergraduate program. It gives students a broad education in basic medical sciences, clinical skills, and how to care for patients. In contrast, MD, or Doctor of Medicine, is a postgraduate program. It allows students to specialize in a specific area of medicine, like cardiology, neurology, or pediatrics. Here are some other differences:
If we look at the MBBS vs MD course duration then MBBS is usually of 4 to 5.5 years while MD lasts for 2-3 years. As the field of medical science has grown, the job opportunities for those who study medicine have also increased. Keep reading the article to know more about the MBBS vs MD.
What is MBBS?
Let us have a look at the key differences between MBBS vs MD. The MBBS course generally lasts 5.5 years, including one year of mandatory internship. It is an undergraduate program that leads to the first professional degree in medicine. The MBBS curriculum combines the study of medicine and surgery, as its name implies.
MBBS is one of the popular options for aspiring doctors. MBBS is a professional degree wherein students study pharmacology, microbiology, genetics, anatomy, etc. It also gives medical students the skills they need to be ethical medical practitioners.
Also Read: MD After MBBS 2024
What is MD?
Check out the details below to know more about MBBS vs MD. The Doctor of Medicine (MD) is a Master's or Postgraduate degree that requires students to study medicine in depth. It is two-year program that prepares medical graduates to prevent, diagnose, and treat adult illnesses.
Any MBBS graduate who wishes to specialize in a specific subject can apply for admission to the MD course. Candidates can specialize in a wide variety of fields, including ophthalmology, dentistry, paediatrics, gynaecology, obstetrics, and gynecologic surgery.
Students who have completed the MBBS degree are eligible for MD. The purpose of an MD program is to prepare the student to be an expert or specialist in the medical field of their choice.
Also Read: List of PG Diploma Courses After MBBS in 2024
Key Difference Between MBBS and MD
After knowing the MBBS vs MD, let us have a look at the primary difference between MBBS and MD tabulated below.
| Criteria | MBBS Course | MD Course |
| MBBS vs MD Degree Type | Undergraduate | Master/Postgraduate |
| MBBS vs MD Course Duration | 4 to 5.5 years | 2-3 years |
| Focus of Study | General Medicine Course | Specialization course in Medicine or Surgery |
| Admission Criteria | Candidates must finish 10+2 with PCM | Candidates must have an MBBS degree from any recognised medical institute. |
| MBBS vs MD Age Limit | The course has a 25-year age limit. | No age limit restrictions. |
Also Read: Top 7 MBBS Alternative Courses in India 2024
Eligibility Criteria for MBBS vs MD
Refer to the table below to know the MBBS vs MD eligibility criteria for students reference. To qualify for government or private MBBS courses, candidates must pass the National Eligibility Test (NEET). In contrast, there are varying criteria for admission to the postgraduate MD programs.
| MBBS Eligibility Criteria | MD Eligibility Criteria |
| The course requires a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in 12th. | The course requires a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in an undergraduate degree. |
| Students who want to pursue an MBBS course must pass the NEET exam. | For an MD degree, one must complete MBBS or BAMS and pass the NEET PG exam. |
| The course has a 25-year age limit. | No age limit restrictions. |
Also Read: Minimum Marks Required in NEET 2024 for MBBS in Private College
Syllabus for MBBS vs MD
The syllabus for MBBS vs MD differs as MBBS is an undergraduate course and MD is a doctorate program.
Below mentioned is the syllabus for the MBBS program.
| Semesters | Subjects covered |
| Semester 1 - 2 | Anatomy Biochemistry Physiology |
| Semester 3 - 5 |
Pathology |
| Semester 6 - 9 |
Medicine |
Following is the syllabus of the MD course semester-wise for the reference of students.
| Semesters | Topics |
| 1 | Applied basic science knowledge, Diseases concerning General Medicine |
| 2 | Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology, Diagnostic investigation and procedures |
| 3 | Monitoring seriously ill patients, Counselling patients and relatives |
| 4 | Ability to carry out research, Ward patient management |
Also Read: Ph.D After MDS
Admission Process for MBBS vs MD
The process of admission vary from course to course. Before applying for a particular course, it is important for students to know the process of admission. Following is the admission process for MBBS vs MD.
| MBBS Admission | MD Admission |
| NEET is the only undergraduate medical entrance test for all medical institutes and aspiring MBBS students. | After MBBS, candidates can take the NEET-PG, AIIMS-PG, NBE, and JIPMER-PG exams for MD courses. |
| Entrance Exam: NEET | Entrance Exam: NEET PG, NEET MDS, AIAPGET, FMGE, DNB PDCET, NEET SS, FET |
Also Read: PharmD Vs MBBS
Job Scope & Roles of MBBS vs MD
Below mentioned is the MBBS vs MD scope for students who are planning to pursue either of the course. A medical professional is demanding and evolves with time. Medical graduates can apply for jobs in government and private hospitals. Individuals may practise their chosen fields of medicine after registering and being certified by the Medical Council of India.
An MBBS graduate may serve as a general surgeon or physician in hospitals. Also, MD is a post-graduate program that allows MBBS graduates to excel in a specific field of specialization. Having an MD Degree will increase a doctor's long-term professional chances. Check out the top job roles for each course below.
| MBBS Profession | MD Profession |
| Junior Physician | Chief Medical Director |
| Medical University Lecturer | Cardiologist |
| General Practitioner | Neurologist |
| Associate Surgeon | Physiologist |
| Medical Instructor | Radiologist |
Also Read: What after MBBS?
Top Colleges for MBBS vs MD
There are several medical colleges in India offering MBBS and MD courses in various specializations. These have been listed in the tables as follows.
Displayed below is the top colleges that offer MD program.
| Name of the Institute | Average Fees (INR) |
| AIIMS, Delhi | INR 21,000 |
| AFMC | INR 1,28,000 |
| BJMC | INR 90,000 |
| Madras Medical College | INR 3,600 |
| Grant Medical College | INR 3,43,000 |
| UCMS | INR1,21,000 |
| BMCRI | INR 3,41,000 |
| MS Ramaiah Medical College | INR 19,80,000 |
| Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute | INR 40,30,000 |
| Dr DY Patil Medical College | INR 49,90,000 |
Elucidated below is the best MBBS colleges in India along with the average fees.
| Name of the Institute | Average Fees (INR) |
| BHU Varanasi | INR 30,000 |
| National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences | INR 66,550 |
| CMC Vellore | INR 15,000 |
| PGIMER Chandigarh | INR 1,00,000 |
| Amrita University Coimbatore | INR 25,00,000 |
| Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology | INR 4,13,000 |
| KMC Manipal | - |
| Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences | - |
| JIPMER Puducherry | INR 38,665 |
| AIIMS Delhi | INR 6,750 |
Also Read: MD Vs MS
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between MBBS vs. MD
Both programs have their own benefits, so depending on what you want for your career, one might be a better fit for you than the other. Here are some things to think about when making your decision:
1. Career Goals
Your choice between MBBS and MD should align with your career goals. If you want to become a medical doctor who practices allopathic medicine, MBBS is the right choice. However, if you're looking to advance your career, conduct research, or specialize in a specific area of medicine, then pursuing an MD would be the better option.
2. Educational Preferences
MBBS is an undergraduate degree, while MD is a postgraduate degree. If you want to start your medical career right after high school, MBBS is the way to go. But if you're more interested in research or specializing in a certain area of medicine, continuing your education with an MD is the right path.
3. Duration and Commitment
Another important factor is how long the programs take and the level of commitment they require. MBBS typically takes five years to complete, whereas MD usually takes three years. MD also requires a higher level of dedication, as it involves in-depth research and specialization.
4. Geographic Considerations
Where you plan to practice medicine can also influence your choice. MBBS programs are available in many countries, including India, China, and the United States. MD programs, however, are mostly offered in the United States and Canada. So, if you have a specific country in mind where you want to work, make sure the program you choose is recognized there.
5. Financial Considerations
Cost is another key factor. MBBS is generally less expensive because it’s an undergraduate program. However, earning an MD can lead to higher-paying jobs and better career opportunities, making it a potentially more rewarding investment in the long run.
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