Not everyone can secure a government MBBS seat in NEET, but that doesn’t mean your medical career ends there. Two of the most popular alternative medical career options after NEET are BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) and BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery).
In this blog, Vidyarthi Group helps you understand the differences, scope, career opportunities, and future potential of BAMS and BDS — so you can make the right choice after NEET.
What is BAMS?
BAMS stands for Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery. It’s a 5.5-year undergraduate degree that focuses on Ayurveda, India’s traditional system of medicine. The course includes 4.5 years of academic study and 1 year of internship.
Key Highlights:
- Curriculum combines Ayurvedic and basic modern medical subjects
- Offers opportunities in clinical practice, research, teaching, and Ayurveda pharma
- Increasing global demand for Ayurvedic medicine and wellness
What is BDS?
BDS stands for Bachelor of Dental Surgery. It is a 5-year professional degree (including 1-year internship) for those who want to become dentists or specialize in oral healthcare.
Key Highlights:
- Focuses on dental anatomy, oral surgery, radiology, and prosthodontics
- Only recognized dental degree in India to become a licensed dentist
- High demand in urban and semi-urban areas with increasing oral health awareness
Which One is Better: BAMS or BDS?
- It depends on your interest, career goals, and long-term vision.
- Choose BAMS if you are inclined toward holistic healing, Ayurveda, and wellness.
- Choose BDS if you are interested in oral health, surgeries, and private dental practice.
- BDS offers faster private practice options, while BAMS offers diverse avenues in wellness tourism, herbal product development, and government schemes like AYUSH.
Future Scope in India and Abroad
🔹 BAMS Scope
- Central and State Government jobs under AYUSH
- AYUSH hospitals, Panchakarma centers
- Ayurvedic startups (product formulation, research)
- International demand for Ayurveda wellness experts (Germany, UAE, USA)
🔹 BDS Scope
- Private dental clinics
- Specialization via MDS
- Hospital jobs, dental equipment sales
- High-paying demand in countries like Canada, UK, and Australia (after licensing exams)
Final Words
If MBBS isn’t within reach, BAMS and BDS are excellent professional alternatives that still let you pursue your dream of being a healthcare expert.
At Vidyarthi Group, we guide students based on their NEET rank, interest, and career potential — helping you make the best career decision, step by step.
