The Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) is a highly sought-after degree program in India that focuses on Ayurveda, the ancient system of holistic healing that originated in India over 3,000 years ago. Ayurveda emphasizes a balance between the mind, body, and spirit to achieve optimal health. With increasing interest in alternative medicine and natural healing worldwide, a degree in BAMS opens doors to a variety of career options in healthcare, wellness, research, and academia.
This comprehensive guide will take you through all the important details about the BAMS course, including its curriculum, eligibility criteria, admission process, scope, career opportunities, salary prospects, and more.
What is BAMS?
BAMS stands for Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery. It is an undergraduate degree program that focuses on the traditional Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, along with modern medical sciences. The program equips students with knowledge about natural and herbal remedies, disease prevention, and lifestyle management through Ayurvedic principles.
The BAMS course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Ayurvedic theories, diagnostic techniques, treatment methods, and patient care based on a holistic approach. Students also study anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology in line with modern medical practices, allowing them to work in various healthcare settings.
Course Details of BAMS
Duration of BAMS Course
The BAMS course duration is 5.5 years, which includes 4.5 years of academic study and one year of mandatory internship. The course is divided into three professional phases, each focusing on different aspects of Ayurveda and modern medical science.
BAMS Syllabus & Subjects
The BAMS course covers both Ayurvedic and modern medical sciences. The curriculum includes theoretical knowledge as well as practical training in diagnosis and treatment. Below is a breakdown of the major subjects studied during the course:
First Professional Year (Basic Ayurvedic Principles)
- Padartha Vigyan: Theoretical foundations of Ayurveda.
- Ashtanga Hridaya: The eight branches of Ayurveda.
- Sanskrit: Language used in Ayurvedic texts.
- Maulik Siddhanta: Fundamental principles of Ayurveda.
- Kriya Sharir: Human physiology based on Ayurvedic principles.
Second Professional Year (Clinical Subjects)
- Rachna Sharir: Human anatomy.
- Dravyaguna Vigyan: Study of medicinal plants and their properties.
- Rasashastra: Ayurvedic pharmaceutics and the preparation of herbal and mineral medicines.
- Charaka Samhita: Classical Ayurvedic text focusing on internal medicine.
Third Professional Year (Advanced Studies)
- Agada Tantra: Toxicology and antidotes in Ayurveda.
- Swasthavritta: Preventive and social medicine in Ayurveda.
- Kayachikitsa: General medicine in Ayurveda.
- Shalya Tantra: Ayurvedic surgery.
- Shalakya Tantra: ENT and ophthalmology in Ayurveda.
Fourth Professional Year (Practical and Clinical Training)
- Panchakarma: Detoxification and rejuvenation therapies in Ayurveda.
- Prasuti Tantra: Obstetrics and gynaecology in Ayurveda.
- Bhoot Vidya: Psychiatry in Ayurveda.
- Roganidana: Diagnostic methods in Ayurveda.
Internship
The final year is dedicated to a one-year compulsory internship where students gain hands-on experience in Ayurvedic hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centres. This practical training helps students apply their theoretical knowledge in real-life medical situations.
Eligibility Criteria for BAMS
Educational Qualification
To be eligible for the BAMS course, candidates must meet the following academic qualifications:
- 10+2 Qualification: Candidates must have passed 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects.
- Minimum Marks: A minimum of 50% aggregate marks in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology) for the general category and 40% for SC/ST/OBC candidates.
Age Limit
- Minimum Age: The candidate should be at least 17 years old by December 31 of the year of admission.
- Maximum Age: There is no upper age limit for applying to the BAMS course, but candidates should check if specific universities or states impose any.
NEET Requirement
Since 2018, admission to the BAMS program requires candidates to qualify for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). NEET scores are the basis for admission to Ayurvedic colleges across India, and candidates need to meet the cutoff marks to secure a seat.
Admission Process for BAMS
Steps in the Admission Process
- Qualify NEET: The first step to getting into a BAMS course is to qualify for the NEET exam. NEET is a national-level entrance test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), and it is mandatory for admission to all undergraduate medical programs in India, including BAMS.
- Apply for Counseling: After clearing NEET, candidates must participate in the counselling process conducted by the respective state or central authorities. Candidates need to register for counselling and fill in their preferences for colleges and courses.
- Seat Allotment: Based on NEET scores, rank, and available seats, the candidates are allotted seats in Ayurvedic colleges. The seat allocation process takes place through Uttar Pradesh Ayush Counselling and other state-level Ayush counselling processes.
- Document Verification: Once the seat is allotted, candidates need to report to the allotted college for document verification. The required documents include NEET scorecard, 10th and 12th mark sheets, category certificates, domicile certificates, etc.
- Final Admission: After document verification, candidates must pay the admission fee to confirm their seat in the college.
Scope of BAMS
The scope of BAMS is expanding as more people are turning to natural and holistic methods for healthcare. Ayurveda’s emphasis on disease prevention and maintaining health through diet, lifestyle, and natural remedies has attracted global attention. After completing a BAMS degree, graduates can explore diverse career paths, both in India and abroad.
1. Ayurvedic Practitioner
Graduates can start their practice as Ayurvedic doctors, treating patients using natural remedies, herbal treatments, and therapies like Panchakarma. Ayurvedic practitioners are in demand in hospitals, clinics, wellness centres, and alternative medicine hospitals.
2. Research and Development
Ayurvedic research is a growing field. Graduates can work with Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies or research institutes to develop new Ayurvedic medicines, herbal products, and therapies. Research professionals contribute to integrating Ayurveda with modern medicine.
3. Teaching and Academia
After completing postgraduate studies, BAMS graduates can become lecturers or professors in Ayurvedic colleges. With the increasing number of institutions offering Ayurvedic education, the demand for qualified faculty is high.
4. Government Jobs
Various central and state government bodies, including the Ministry of AYUSH, hire Ayurvedic doctors for government-run hospitals and clinics. Government jobs offer stable careers with good salaries, benefits, and job security.
5. Ayurvedic Pharmacist
Pharmaceutical companies specializing in Ayurvedic medicines hire qualified BAMS graduates as pharmacists. They assist in the preparation, formulation, and quality control of herbal products.
6. Wellness Consultant
With the increasing popularity of wellness tourism, spas, and wellness retreats, Ayurvedic consultants are needed to guide holistic healing, diet, lifestyle changes, and detox therapies.
Career Options After BAMS
A BAMS graduate has a plethora of career options available. Depending on one’s interest and specialization, the following are some of the career avenues after completing the BAMS course:
1. Clinical Practice
BAMS graduates can open clinics or work in Ayurvedic hospitals as Ayurvedic doctors. The rise in the popularity of Ayurveda worldwide has increased the demand for Ayurvedic professionals in both private and government sectors.
2. Postgraduate Studies (MD/MS in Ayurveda)
Graduates can pursue higher education by opting for MD (Ayurveda) or MS (Ayurveda) in various specializations like Panchakarma, Kayachikitsa, Shalya Tantra, and more. A postgraduate degree enhances career prospects in both clinical practice and academia.
3. Ayurveda Pharma Industry
Many Ayurvedic pharmaceutical companies hire BAMS graduates for roles in research and development, drug formulation, quality control, and marketing. Companies such as Dabur, Baidyanath, Himalaya, and Zandu offer lucrative job opportunities.
4. Research and Academia
BAMS graduates can work as researchers or academics in Ayurvedic colleges and research institutions. They can contribute to the scientific validation of Ayurvedic medicines and practices.
5. Wellness and Spa Industry
With the increasing global interest in Ayurveda, many resorts, wellness centres, and spas require Ayurvedic practitioners to offer traditional therapies and treatments. Graduates can work as wellness consultants or Panchakarma specialists.
Salary After BAMS
The salary of a BAMS graduate depends on factors like job role, experience, and the sector they are working in. Here’s a breakdown of average salaries across various professions after completing a BAMS degree:
1. Ayurvedic Practitioner
- Starting Salary: ₹20,000 – ₹30,000 per month.
- Experienced Professionals: With years of experience and a good reputation, practitioners can earn over ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 per month.
2. Research and Development
- Starting Salary: ₹30,000 – ₹50,000 per month.
- Senior Researchers: In established companies or research institutions, senior researchers can earn up to ₹1,00,000 per month or more.
3. Teaching and Academia
- Lecturers/Professors: ₹30,000 – ₹70,000 per month, depending on the institution.
- Senior Faculty: Professors with extensive experience can earn over ₹1,00,000 per month.
4. Ayurvedic Pharmacist
- Starting Salary: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000 per month.
- Experienced Pharmacists: ₹50,000 – ₹80,000 per month.
5. Wellness Consultant
- Starting Salary: ₹30,000 – ₹60,000 per month.
- Consultants at Wellness Resorts: With experience, salaries can reach ₹1,00,000 per month.
FAQs About BAMS
1. What is the full form of BAMS?
The full form of BAMS is Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery.
2. What is the duration of the BAMS course?
The BAMS course duration is 5.5 years, which includes 4.5 years of academic study and one year of compulsory internship.
3. Is NEET mandatory for BAMS?
Yes, qualifying for the NEET exam is mandatory for admission to the BAMS program in India.
4. Can I pursue BAMS after completing 12th in commerce?
No, to pursue BAMS, you must have completed 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects.
5. What are the career options after BAMS?
Career options include Ayurvedic doctor, researcher, academician, Ayurvedic pharmacist, wellness consultant, and more.
6. What is the salary of a BAMS doctor in India?
The starting salary for a BAMS graduate can range from ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 per month, with experienced practitioners earning much more.
7. Can BAMS graduates practice modern medicine?
In some states of India, BAMS graduates are allowed to practice modern medicine (allopathy) in specific capacities. However, it is essential to check the regulations of the respective state.
8. Is BAMS equivalent to MBBS?
While BAMS and MBBS are both medical degrees, they focus on different systems of medicine. MBBS focuses on modern medicine, while BAMS focuses on Ayurveda.
9. What is the scope of BAMS abroad?
The demand for Ayurvedic practitioners is growing worldwide, especially in countries like the USA, Australia, and European nations where alternative medicine is gaining recognition.
10. Can BAMS graduates pursue higher education?
Yes, BAMS graduates can pursue postgraduate courses like MD (Ayurveda), MS (Ayurveda), and other specialized courses to enhance their career prospects.