The Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) curriculum in India is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Ayurvedic principles, practices, and modern medical sciences. The program typically spans 5.5 years, including 4.5 years of academic study and 1 year of internship. Here’s a detailed overview of the BAMS curriculum:
Course Structure
1. Academic Duration
- Total Duration: 5.5 years
- Coursework: 4.5 years
- Internship: 1 year
2. Subjects and Syllabus
Year 1: Basic Sciences and Introduction to Ayurveda
- Anatomy (Rachana Sharira): Study of human anatomy, structure of the body, and organ systems.
- Physiology (Kriya Sharira): Understanding bodily functions and physiological processes.
- Sanskrit: Basics of the Sanskrit language for better comprehension of Ayurvedic texts.
- Fundamentals of Ayurveda: Introduction to Ayurvedic philosophy, principles, and concepts.
Year 2: Core Ayurvedic Concepts
- Pathology (Vikriti Vigyana): Study of diseases, their causes, and effects from an Ayurvedic perspective.
- Pharmacology (Dravyaguna Vigyana): Understanding medicinal plants, their properties, and uses in Ayurveda.
- Ayurvedic Dietetics (Aahar Vidhi Vimarsha): Study of nutrition, dietary regulations, and the role of food in health.
- Ayurvedic Psychology (Samanvaya Sharira): Basics of mental health and Ayurvedic approaches to psychology.
Year 3: Clinical Subjects and Practical Training
- Medicine (Kaya Chikitsa): Internal medicine, understanding and treating diseases through Ayurvedic principles.
- Panchakarma: In-depth study of detoxification methods and therapeutic procedures.
- Pediatrics (Kaumarabhritya): Ayurvedic approaches to child health and pediatric care.
- Gynecology and Obstetrics (Stri Rog): Study of women's health, reproductive health, and related disorders.
Year 4: Specialized Areas
- Surgery (Shalya Tantra): Ayurvedic surgical techniques and practices.
- ENT and Ophthalmology (Shalakya Tantra): Study of disorders related to the eyes, ears, nose, and throat from an Ayurvedic perspective.
- Geriatrics: Ayurvedic care for the elderly, understanding aging and related health issues.
- Research Methodology: Basics of research in Ayurveda and understanding evidence-based practices.
Year 5: Internship and Clinical Practice
- Internship: One year of hands-on training in Ayurvedic hospitals or clinics, focusing on patient care, practical application of knowledge, and treatment protocols.
3. Practical Training
- Clinical Rotations: Involvement in various departments during the internship to gain practical experience.
- Workshops and Seminars: Participation in workshops, seminars, and camps organized by the institution to enhance practical skills and community engagement.
4. Examination System
- Internal Assessments: Regular tests and evaluations throughout the academic years.
- Final Examinations: Conducted at the end of each academic year, assessing both theoretical and practical knowledge.
5. Skills Development
- Emphasis on developing skills such as patient examination, diagnostic methods, treatment planning, and communication with patients.
Conclusion
The BAMS curriculum in India is designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of Ayurvedic medicine, integrating ancient practices with modern medical knowledge. The structured approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for a variety of roles in the healthcare sector, from clinical practice to research and education.