For students aspiring to enter the medical field but interested in alternative medicine, a BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery) degree can be an excellent option. This guide covers everything you need to know about BHMS, from course details to career opportunities, ensuring that prospective students have a thorough understanding of this educational path.
What is BHMS?
BHMS stands for Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery, an undergraduate program focused on homeopathic medicine and surgery. This course spans five and a half years, including a one-year internship, and offers various career opportunities in the healthcare sector. Homeopathy, as an alternative medical system, emphasizes treating individuals holistically, considering their physical, emotional, and psychological aspects.
Homeopathy was developed in the late 18th century by Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician. It operates on the principle of “like cures like,” which means that a substance that causes symptoms in a healthy person can be used to treat similar symptoms in a sick person. Homeopathic medicines are prepared through a process of serial dilution and succussion (vigorous shaking), making them safe with minimal side effects.
Why Pursue a BHMS Degree?
The appeal of a BHMS degree lies in the growing popularity of homeopathy in India. Many individuals prefer homeopathic treatments for their perceived safety and efficacy. The rise in demand for holistic and natural approaches to healthcare has opened up various career paths for BHMS graduates. Here are some compelling reasons to consider pursuing a BHMS degree:
- Growing Acceptance of Homeopathy: With increasing awareness and acceptance of homeopathy as a viable medical option, there is a growing demand for qualified practitioners. More people are turning to homeopathy for chronic ailments and preventive care, leading to a steady influx of patients seeking homeopathic treatment.
- Comprehensive Knowledge of Medicine: The BHMS curriculum encompasses various subjects, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, and homeopathic philosophy. This well-rounded education equips students with a deep understanding of medical science, preparing them for diverse roles in the healthcare field.
- Diverse Career Opportunities: Graduates can explore numerous career paths, including clinical practice, research, education, and consultancy. The versatility of the BHMS degree allows students to choose a path that aligns with their interests and skills.
- Positive Impact on Patients’ Lives: Homeopathy offers a holistic approach to healthcare, focusing on treating the root causes of diseases rather than just alleviating symptoms. This philosophy allows practitioners to make a meaningful impact on their patients’ lives.
Course Highlights
| Particular | Values |
| Course Name | Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) |
| Duration | 5.5 years (including a 1-year internship) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 (with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English) |
| Average Fees | ₹20,000 to ₹3,00,000 (varies by institution) |
| Top Recruiters | Patanjali Ayurveda, Dabur India, Emami Ltd., Surya Herbal Ltd. |
| Salary Range | ₹2,00,000 to ₹10,00,000 per annum |
BHMS Eligibility Criteria
To pursue a BHMS degree, students must meet specific eligibility criteria. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:
| Criteria | Details |
| Education | Candidates must have completed their 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English as core subjects. |
| Minimum Marks | A minimum of 50% marks is required for the general category, while SC/ST/OBC candidates must secure at least 40%. |
| Age Limit | Candidates must be at least 17 years old and should not exceed 25 years of age (30 years for SC/ST/OBC candidates). |
| NEET Requirement | Aspirants must qualify for the NEET UG entrance exam. This is the gateway for admission into BHMS programs across India. |
NEET: The Gateway to BHMS
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is a crucial examination for aspiring medical students in India. It is the only entrance exam for various undergraduate medical courses, including BHMS, MBBS, and BDS.
NEET Exam Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Format | Multiple-choice questions |
| Subjects Covered | Physics, Chemistry, Biology |
| Total Questions | 180 (45 Physics, 45 Chemistry, 90 Biology) |
| Duration | 3 hours |
How to Apply for BHMS
The admission process for BHMS is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:
| Step | Description |
| 1. Qualify NEET | Take the NEET UG exam and achieve the required score. |
| 2. Counseling | Participate in the AACCC counseling conducted by the Ministry of Ayush. |
| 3. Choice Filling | Select preferred colleges during counseling. |
| 4. Seat Allotment | Seats are allocated based on NEET scores and preferences. |
| 5. Admission | Complete admission formalities, including fees and document submission. |
BHMS Syllabus Overview
The BHMS program consists of various subjects over four years, plus an internship. Here’s a brief overview of the subjects covered:
| Year | Subjects |
| First Year | Anatomy, Physiology & Biochemistry, Homeopathic Materia Medica, Organon of Medicine, Homeopathic Pharmacy |
| Second Year | Pathology, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, Surgery, Forensic Medicine, Homeopathic Materia Medica |
| Third Year | Surgery, Community Medicine, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, Repertory |
| Fourth Year | Practice of Medicine, Repertory, Community Medicine, Homeopathic Materia Medica |
Skills Required for BHMS Students
To excel in the BHMS program and subsequent career, students should develop the following skills:
- Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for interacting with patients and understanding their concerns. Homeopathic practitioners must explain treatment plans clearly and empathetically.
- Critical Thinking: BHMS students must develop analytical skills to assess patient symptoms and determine appropriate treatment options. Critical thinking is crucial for making informed decisions.
- Attention to Detail: Homeopathic treatment requires precise preparation and dosing of remedies. Attention to detail ensures patient safety and treatment efficacy.
- Physical Strength: Practitioners may need to spend long hours in clinics or hospitals, attending to patients. Physical stamina and strength can enhance overall performance.
BHMS Career Opportunities
After completing a BHMS degree, graduates can explore various career paths. Here are some popular options:
| Career Path | Description |
| Homeopathic Doctor | Homeopathic doctors diagnose and treat patients using homeopathic remedies. They often avoid prescribing allopathic medications. |
| Pharmacist | Pharmacists review the safety levels of newly manufactured drugs, supply medicines to doctors and patients, and assist patients in understanding prescriptions. |
| Teacher/Lecturer | Graduates can pursue a career in education by teaching in medical colleges. Further studies can lead to positions as professors. |
| Health Consultant | Health consultants provide advice and guidance on health-related issues, often working in hospitals or private practices. |
| Researcher | Graduates can conduct research in homeopathy, contributing to the development of new treatments and medicines. |
Salary Expectations
The salary after completing a BHMS degree can vary depending on job profile and experience. Here’s an approximate salary range for common roles:
| Job Profile | Average Salary (per annum) |
| Homeopathic Doctor | ₹3.5 Lakhs |
| Pharmacist | ₹2.6 Lakhs |
| Teacher/Lecturer | ₹4 Lakhs |
| Health Consultant | ₹3 Lakhs |
Salaries can vary based on location, institution, and the individual’s experience. For instance, practitioners in metropolitan areas may earn higher salaries compared to those in rural settings.
Note:-For more details on the Top 10 Medical Courses in India, click here
Top BHMS Colleges in India
India has over 250 BHMS colleges, with around 210 private colleges and the rest being government-run. Here are some of the top colleges in both sectors:
Top Private Colleges
| College Name | Fees |
| Homeopathy University, Jaipur | ₹4.55 Lakhs |
| Jayoti Vidyapeeth Women’s University, Jaipur | ₹6.75 Lakhs |
| RKDF University, Bhopal | ₹6.15 Lakhs |
| Malwanchal University, Indore | ₹5.45 Lakhs |
| Kharagpur Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital | ₹6.57 Lakhs |
Top Government Colleges
| College Name | Fees |
| NIH Kolkata | Rs. 1.04 Lakhs |
| DSRRAU Jodhpur | Rs. 5.85 Lakhs |
| Dr YSR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada | Rs. 48,400 |
| The Calcutta Homoeopathic Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata | Rs. 36,940 |
| JSPS Government Homeopathic Medical College, Hyderabad | Rs. 48,400 |
For admission to Bachelor of Homeopathy Medicine and Surgery, it is mandatory for aspirants to qualify the NEET entrance exam after completing 10+2 or equivalent examination. BHMS is an extensive study of a form of medicine that apparently causes no side effects, BHMS is the first step of the ladder that lets you achieve heights in the field of homeopathy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
BHMS is an undergraduate degree program of five and a half years including a year of internship. In BHMS, the candidate gains knowledge of Homeopathy medicine and surgery.
For admission to Bachelors of Homeopathy Medicine and Surgery – BHMS course in India, it is mandatory for aspirants to qualify the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) entrance exam after passing Class 12 or equivalent examination.
Central Council of Homeopathy (CCH) is the competent authority to regulate homeopathic education and practice in India.
The specialisation of BHMS are Homeopathic Pharmacy, Homeopathic Paediatrics, Homeopathic Psychiatry, Homeopathic Skin Specialist, Homeopathic Infertility Specialist.
