The Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) is a professional undergraduate degree in Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine in India. Here's a comprehensive overview of the BAMS course in India:
Course Overview
- Duration: 5.5 years (4.5 years of academic study + 1 year of internship)
- Degree Awarded: Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS)
Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Qualification:
- Must have completed 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects.
- Minimum percentage varies by institution (usually around 50% for general category).
- Entrance Exams: Admission is typically based on entrance exams like NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) or state-level exams.
Course Curriculum
The BAMS curriculum is divided into different subjects over six years:
First Professional Year
- Kaya Chikitsa (Internal Medicine)
- Swasthavritta (Preventive Medicine)
- Ayurvedic Anatomy and Physiology
- Sanskrit (language of Ayurveda)
Second Professional Year
- Roga and Vikriti Vigyana (Pathology)
- Dravyaguna Vigyana (Pharmacology)
- Shalya Tantra (Surgery)
- Shalakya Tantra (ENT, Ophthalmology)
Third Professional Year
- Panchakarma (Detoxification and Rejuvenation)
- Agada Tantra (Toxicology)
- Charak Samhita (Classical Texts)
- Vaidya Vyakarana (Medical Jurisprudence)
Final Year
- Clinical Practices
- Research Methodology
- Practical Training
- Internship: 1 year of hands-on clinical training in Ayurvedic hospitals.
Key Subjects
- Ayurvedic Physiology
- Ayurvedic Pathology
- Ayurvedic Pharmacology
- Therapeutics and Treatment Protocols
- Surgery and Emergency Care in Ayurveda
Career Opportunities
Graduates of BAMS can pursue various career paths, including:
- Ayurvedic Practitioner: Set up private clinics or join hospitals.
- Research: Work in research organizations focused on traditional medicine.
- Academics: Pursue teaching roles in colleges and universities.
- Government Jobs: Opportunities in health departments, Ayurvedic boards, and government hospitals.
- Entrepreneurship: Start wellness centers, Ayurvedic products, or consultancy services.
Further Studies
After completing BAMS, graduates can pursue:
- MD in Ayurveda: Specialization in various Ayurvedic disciplines.
- PhD: Research opportunities in Ayurveda or related fields.
- Diploma Courses: Specializations in Panchakarma, Yoga, or other complementary therapies.
Accreditation and Recognition
- BAMS courses are recognized by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) and affiliated universities.
- Ensure that the institution is recognized and accredited for quality education.
Admission Process
- Typically involves entrance examinations followed by counseling sessions.
- Some institutions may have direct admission based on merit.
Conclusion
BAMS is a valuable degree for those interested in traditional medicine and holistic healing practices. With a growing interest in Ayurveda both in India and globally, graduates can find diverse opportunities in healthcare and wellness industries.