The Doctor of Medicine (MD) course is a 3-year PG medical program for MBBS graduates aiming to specialise in specific medical fields. It focuses on advanced theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and research in a specific specialisation.
The Candidates must hold an MBBS degree with at least 50% aggregate marks from a university approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI) or an equivalent international body. They also required valid scores in the NEET PG or INI CET. A personal interview or a written test may be part of the selection process.
Popular Doctor of Medicine colleges include the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) Chandigarh, Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore, and Teerthanker Mahaveer University(TMU), Moradabad. The average course fee ranges between INR 2,000-20,00,000.
Graduates with a Doctor of Medicine can work as a multidisciplinary professional with expertise in medical professionals such as anesthesiologists, critical care specialists, cardiologists, anaesthesia technicians, psychiatrists, and others. The salary ranges between INR 4 LPA to INR 30 LPA.
Table of Contents
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) Highlights
- What is a Doctor of Medicine (MD)?
- Why study a Doctor of Medicine (MD)?
- Who should study the Doctor of Medicine (MD)?
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) Eligibility Criteria
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) Entrance Exams
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) Colleges in India
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) Admission Process 2025
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) Syllabus
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) Job Opportunities in India
- Doctor of Medicine (MD) FAQs
Doctor of Medicine (MD) Highlights
The details for the Doctor of Medicine are listed below:
What is a Doctor of Medicine (MD)?
A Doctor of Medicine (MD) is a postgraduate professional degree awarded to individuals who have completed advanced training in the field of medicine. It is typically pursued after earning an undergraduate medical degree, such as MBBS. The MD program provides in-depth theoretical knowledge, clinical skills, and hands-on experience in a specific medical speciality, such as Internal Medicine, Paediatrics, Pathology, Radiology, or Psychiatry.
The curriculum emphasises diagnosing, preventing, and managing complex medical conditions, preparing doctors to deliver expert patient care and contribute to clinical research. Admission to an MD program in India is typically based on qualifying in competitive entrance exams like NEET-PG, and eligibility includes completion of an MBBS degree and internship.
Why study a Doctor of Medicine (MD)?
Studying for a Doctor of Medicine is a rewarding endeavour for those passionate about medicine and discovery, offering numerous compelling reasons to pursue this field. Few reasons to pursue this course are given below:
- A Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree is a crucial step for medical professionals seeking to deepen their expertise, specialise in a specific field, and advance their careers.
- The MD program allows doctors to focus on specific fields like Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Radiology, or Psychiatry, enhancing patient care quality and increasing their value in both public and private healthcare sectors.
- MD-qualified professionals are often preferred for higher-level roles in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare institutions, and can pursue further super-specialisation through programs like DM or MCh.
- Specialisation signifies a deeper understanding and commitment to a particular field, leading to improved diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient outcomes.
- MD graduates can enter academia and research, such as teaching, clinical or pharmaceutical research, or working on new treatments, medical technologies, or disease prevention strategies.
- Financially, studying for an MD can lead to higher earning potential, as specialists typically command better salaries compared to general practitioners.
Who should study the Doctor of Medicine (MD)?
A Doctor of Medicine is suitable for people with a strong interest in life administration and a desire to contribute to conducting research and innovation. The best match candidates that will fit this program are given below:
- The Doctor of Medicine (MD) program is ideal for medical graduates who have completed their MBBS degree and are passionate about advanced patient care, clinical specialisation, and contributing to the healthcare system.
- It is particularly beneficial for those in specific branches like Internal Medicine, Pathology, Paediatrics, or Radiology who wish to build a focused career within that speciality.
- MD programs equip students with the tools to become specialists, leading clinical teams, making informed decisions, and improving patient outcomes.
- MD graduates can also become medical educators, teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students, and contributing to the field through clinical research studies, publishing findings, and influencing medical policy.
- They are also strong candidates for leadership positions within hospitals, healthcare organisations, or public health institutions.
Doctor of Medicine (MD) Eligibility Criteria
Given below are the Doctor of Medicine eligibility criteria:
- The Candidates must hold an MBBS degree with at least 50% aggregate marks from a university approved by the Medical Council of India (MCI) or an equivalent international body.
- Candidates with professional degrees are also eligible at many institutes, provided they have good academic records.
- A valid national-level fellowship or entrance exam qualification is usually required, such as NEET PG or INI CET.
- Some institutes may consider candidates without a fellowship, but preference is given to those with national-level scholarships.
- Additional requirements, such as a personal interview or written test, may be part of the selection process.
- Candidates belonging to the SC/ST category are entitled to a 5% relaxation in aggregate marks.
Doctor of Medicine (MD) Entrance Exams
Given below is the Doctor of Medicine entrance exam, along with the application date and application fees.
Click to read about MD General Medicine
Doctor of Medicine (MD) Colleges in India
Given below are the top Doctor of Medicine colleges in India.
Also read about MD Radiodiagnosis
Doctor of Medicine (MD) Admission Process 2025
Doctor of Medicine can be accessed through either the entrance examination mode or direct admission through a quota. The admission process at AIIMS Delhi is mentioned below:
Step 1: Visit the AIIMS Delhi admissions official site and choose the Doctor of Medicine.
Step 2: Fill in the online application form with all the necessary details, upload scanned images of your photograph and signature, and pay the application fee online.
Step 3: Choose your admission mode: With a valid NEET PG or INI CET Score.
Step 4: Complete the application and print it out for your records.
Step 5: Appear if the NEET PG or INI CET scores are both valid and received.
Step 6: Wait for the release of merit lists: Each NEET PG or INI CET participant has a separate merit list prepared by AIIMS Delhi.
Step 7: If shortlisted, go to the official site to see whether you have been selected, and follow the process for admission confirmation.
Step 8: Confirm your seat by paying the admission fee.
Step 9: Complete the document verification as per the institute's requirements.
Step 10: Now, receive the details regarding the commencement of classes after completing the formalities.
Documentation Required:
- 10th and 12th mark sheets.
- Graduation Marksheets
- NEET PG or INI CET scorecard/admit card
- Aadhar Card
- PAN Card
- Migration certificate
- Character certificate
- School Leaving Certificate
- Passport-size photographs
- Signature.
- Caste Certificate (If any)
- Income proof
Doctor of Medicine (MD) Syllabus
A Doctor of Medicine program combines classes and research work, with research and thesis preparation being the primary focus. The syllabus varies based on the chosen specialisation, with candidates having the option to choose specific research areas from a table.
Click to know more about MD Paediatrics
Doctor of Medicine (MD) Job Opportunities in India
Given below are the job opportunities one can pursue after a Doctor of Medicine.
Doctor of Medicine (MD) FAQs
Can I pursue a Doctor of Medicine abroad after completing my MBBS in India?
Yes, Indian students can study for a Doctor of Medicine (MD) abroad after completing an MBBS from a recognised Indian university. Countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Russia, and Germany offer MD or equivalent degrees. Eligibility exams and language proficiency tests may be required. Studying abroad offers access to advanced medical infrastructure and global exposure, but it comes with high tuition fees and rigorous admission processes.
What are the key differences between an MD and an MS degree in India?
An MD focuses on non-surgical specialisations like Internal Medicine, Paediatrics, Dermatology, and Radiology, emphasising clinical diagnosis and treatment. An MS focuses on surgical branches like General Surgery, Orthopaedics, ENT, or Obstetrics and Gynaecology, focusing on operative techniques and intervention. Both are 3-year postgraduate programs after MBBS, but they differ in orientation.
Are there any bond or service obligations after completing an MD course in India?
Government medical colleges often require students to sign a service bond as part of their MD admission, mandating 1-5 years of service in rural or underserved areas. Opting out may result in a penalty of INR 5-50 lakhs. This bond system aims to address the shortage of specialist doctors in rural areas.
Can I shift to non-clinical roles after completing my MD?
MD graduates are increasingly pursuing non-clinical careers like medical writing, healthcare consulting, hospital management, medical journalism, and pharmaceutical marketing, with specialities like Community Medicine or Pharmacology leading to these areas. Those interested in administration can pursue MBAs in Healthcare Management or MPHs for leadership or policy-making roles in healthcare systems.
Can I switch my specialisation after enrolling in an MD program?
Switching specialisation in an MD program is generally not allowed, especially in highly competitive government or private medical colleges. Students are expected to complete the MD in their chosen specialisation. However, transfers may be considered in rare cases within the initial weeks of admission, subject to availability, college administration approval, and regulatory guidelines.
