BUMS vs BAMS: Which Alternative Medicine Degree Is Right for You?

As the demand for alternative medicine continues to rise, two undergraduate courses are gaining significant attention among NEET aspirants: the BUMS course (Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery) and the BAMS course (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery). These programs offer promising career opportunities in India’s traditional healthcare systems—Unani and Ayurveda, both regulated by the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM).

In this article, we’ll compare the BUMS course vs the BAMS course, highlight differences in curriculum, fees, career options, and help you decide which alternative medicine degree is the right choice for you.

What is the BUMS Course?

The BUMS course is a 5.5-year undergraduate program based on the Unani system of medicine, which originated from ancient Greek and Arabic medical philosophies. The course includes 4.5 years of academic study and 1 year of compulsory internship.

Key Highlights of BUMS:

• Focuses on holistic healing using natural remedies

• Subjects include Ilmul Advia (Unani pharmacology), Moalijat (General Medicine), and Ilaj-bit-Tadbeer (regimental therapy)

• Recognized by NCISM

• Offered at government and private Unani medical colleges across India

What is the BAMS Course?

The BAMS course is also a 5.5-year undergraduate program focused on the Ayurvedic system of medicine, which is rooted in ancient Indian traditions. The course combines modern medical knowledge with traditional Ayurvedic principles.

Key Highlights of BAMS:

• Subjects include Charaka Samhita, Kayachikitsa (General Medicine), and Panchakarma therapy

• Offers a wide scope in India and abroad for Ayurvedic practice

• Regulated by NCISM

• Offered by both public and private Ayurvedic medical colleges

Eligibility Criteria for BUMS and BAMS

To pursue either of these courses, students must:

• Pass 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology

• Score at least 50% in PCB subjects (45% for reserved categories)

• Qualify NEET-UG (mandatory for both BUMS and BAMS admissions)

• For BUMS: Some colleges may require Urdu as a subject in the 10th or 12th standard

BAMS Course Fees vs Unani Course Fees

The BAMS course fees and Unani course fees vary widely based on the type of institution (government or private) and the state.

BAMS Course Fees:

• Government Colleges: ₹15,000 – ₹75,000 per year

• Private Colleges: ₹2 – ₹3.5 lakhs per year

• BAMS College Fees (Total): ₹10 – ₹18 lakhs (including hostel and internship in private colleges)

Unani Course Fees (BUMS):

• Government Colleges: ₹10,000 – ₹60,000 per year

• Private Colleges: ₹1.5 – ₹2.5 lakhs per year

• Unani Medical Course Fees (Total): ₹8 – ₹14 lakhs in private colleges

Top Colleges Offering BUMS and BAMS Courses

Top BUMS Colleges (Unani Medical):

• Aligarh Unani Medical College, Aligarh

Top BAMS Colleges (Ayurvedic Medical):

• Allama Iqbal Unani UG & PG Medical College

Career Opportunities After BUMS and BAMS

Career After BUMS:

• Unani Medical Practitioner (Hakim)

• Lecturer in Unani Medical College

• Government Unani Medical Officer

• Research Officer in CCRUM (Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine)

• Herbal Product Manufacturer or Consultant

Career After BAMS:

• Ayurvedic Doctor in private practice or hospital

• Panchakarma Therapist

• Ayurvedic Product Developer

• Medical Officer in the Government Ayurveda Hospital

• Professor in Ayurvedic College

Comparison: BUMS Course vs BAMS Course

The BUMS course is rooted in the Unani system of medicine, influenced by Greek-Arabic medical practices, while the BAMS course is based on Ayurveda, an ancient Indian healthcare system. Both are undergraduate medical degrees regulated by NCISM and span 5.5 years, including a one-year mandatory internship. Students pursuing BUMS are trained to become Unani Practitioners (Hakims), whereas BAMS graduates become Ayurvedic Doctors (Vaidyas). While BUMS college fees in private institutions generally range between ₹8 to ₹14 lakhs, BAMS course fees are slightly higher, typically between ₹10 to ₹18 lakhs. Globally, Ayurveda is gaining significant recognition, whereas Unani medicine remains more regionally known. Also, knowledge of Urdu may be required in some Unani colleges, while BAMS is usually taught in Sanskrit or English.

Key Comparison Points:

• System of Medicine:

  • BUMS: Unani (Greek-Arabic origin)

  • BAMS: Ayurveda (Indian origin)

• Duration: 5.5 years (including internship)

• Governing Body: NCISM (for both)

• Career Title:

  • BUMS: Unani Practitioner / Hakim

  • BAMS: Ayurvedic Doctor / Vaidya

• Course Fees:

  • BUMS: ₹8–14 lakhs (private colleges)

  • BAMS: ₹10–18 lakhs (private colleges)

• Global Recognition:

  • BUMS: Limited to South Asia and the Middle East

  • BAMS: Increasing popularity worldwide

• Language Requirement:

  • BUMS: May require Urdu

  • BAMS: Generally taught in Sanskrit/English

Which Degree Is Right for You?

Choose the BUMS course if:

• You are interested in Unani medicine, regimental therapy, and herbal healing rooted in Arabic traditions.

• You have studied Urdu and want to work in areas with demand for Unani practitioners.

Choose the BAMS course if:

• You prefer Ayurveda, lifestyle-based healing, and Panchakarma.

• You want more global opportunities in wellness, Ayurvedic tourism, and herbal product industries.

Conclusion

Both the BUMS and BAMS courses offer strong career potential in the field of traditional medicine. While the BAMS course fees and Ayurvedic medical course fees might be slightly higher, the global reach of Ayurveda makes it an attractive option. On the other hand, the Unani course fees are generally more affordable, and the system is deeply respected in specific regions across India and abroad.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your interests, career goals, and language background. Do thorough research on college reputation, faculty, internship opportunities, and placement records before making your decision.