MBBS vs PharmD- Which Has More Scope in 2025?

Key Takeaways

  • Understand the difference between MBBS and PharmD  

  • Compare eligibility, entrance exams & NEET requirements

  • Explore job roles after each course in India and abroad

  • Gthe et a clear breakdown of average salaries in India, USA, Gulf & more

  • Check global scope and licensing pathways for both careers

  • Decide which course suits your career goals best

”My son/daughter will become a doctor.”

If you are an Indian student from a science background, you could have probably heard this more times than you can count. While MBBS is the traditional dream, it’s not the only option in medicine today.

Ever heard of Pharm.D? It’s a doctorate degree in pharmacy that’s gaining serious traction in India and abroad, offering strong career growth without the NEET pressure.

Still wondering which has better scope in 2025- MBBS or Pharm.D?

In this blog, we’ll compare both courses in terms of eligibility, salary, job roles, global opportunities, and more, so you can choose the right medical career for your future.

Course Overview

Feature

MBBS

PharmD

Full Form

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery

Doctor of Pharmacy

Type of Degree

Undergraduate Professional Degree

Doctoral Professional Degree

Eligibility Criteria

Criteria

MBBS

PharmD

Minimum Qualification

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology

10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology or Mathematics

Minimum Marks

50% (General); 40% (SC/ST/OBC)

50% aggregate in science subjects

Entrance Exam

NEET-UG (mandatory, conducted by NTA)

State/Institute-level test (varies by university; NEET not required)

Pro Tip: If NEET isn’t your strength, PharmD could be your best path into healthcare without compromising on career scope. If you are unsure about your eligibility, you can get it checked with our experts.

Course Duration & Curriculum Comparison

Feature

MBBS

PharmD

Total Duration

5.5 years (4.5 years + 1-year internship)

6 years (5 years study + 1-year internship)

Internship

Mandatory 12-month hospital rotation

12 month, Mandatory clinical/hospital internship

Key Subjects

Anatomy, Surgery, Medicine, Physiology

Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacy, Toxicology

Focus Area

Human body, diseases & treatments

Drug action, interactions & patient care

Career Opportunities After Each Course

Career Options After MBBS:

  • General Physician

  • Surgeon (post PG)

  • Government Medical Officer

  • Medical Researcher

  • Public Health Specialist

  • Hospital Administrator

Career Options After PharmD:

  • Clinical Pharmacist

  • Drug Safety Associate

  • Pharmacovigilance Officer

  • Hospital or Retail Pharmacist

  • Clinical Research Associate (CRA)

  • Medical Science Liaison (MSL)

Salary Comparison: MBBS vs PharmD in India & Abroad

We invest in any degree with the hope that we will earn a lot. This is the main aim, isn’t it? So, here’s the salary comparison for MBBS vs PharmD in India and abroad.

Country

MBBS Avg Salary

PharmD Avg Salary

India (Freshers)

₹6–10 LPA

₹2–3.6 LPA

India (Experienced)

₹12–30 LPA

₹4–8 LPA

USA

₹99L–1.2Cr

₹91L–1.07Cr

Gulf (UAE, Qatar)

₹25–40 LPA

₹15–25 LPA

Canada/Australia

₹60–1.5cr LPA

₹50–70 LPA

Global Scope & Licensing

Now that you know the salaries are quite amazing abroad for both MBBS and PharmD, you might be eager to know how to work in those countries, right?

So, here the scope of both MBBS and PharmD abroad.

Country

MBBS Scope

PharmD Scope

USA

High (USMLE required)

Very High (FPGEE and NAPLEX + Pharm license)

UK

Moderate (PLAB needed)

OSPAP - 1-year postgraduate course 

Gulf

High (MOH/DOH/HAAD exams)

High (DHA/MOH exams)

Australia

Good (AMC pathway)

Good (OPRA Exam)

Canada

Good (MCCQE)

Good (PEBC Exam)


Did any of the countries and their licensing exam interest you? If yes, then the next step is to start preparing for that exam. Wondering how? You can contact one of our representatives at Educafic, who will guide you through the entire process. 

Educafic, a study abroad initiative by Academically, can help you get enrolled in preparation courses for both medical and pharmacy licensing exams. Our courses include:

  • Live and recorded video lectures

  • Comprehensive study materials

  • Practice questions and AI-based mock tests

  • 1:1 personalised mentorship and support

  • Exam-focused guidance from expert faculty

  • Community groups, peer support

Verdict: Which Has More Scope in 2025?

The answer to the most important question of the blog, which has more scope in 2025- MBBS or PharmD. Honestly, the answer is up to you.


Choose MBBS if you…

Choose PharmD if you…

Want to become a licensed physician

Want to work in drug safety and patient care

Are ready to prepare for NEET

Prefer a medical career without NEET

Are passionate about surgery and diagnosis

Are interested in pharmacology and research

Can commit 7–10 years (incl. PG)

Want quicker access to hospital-based roles

Final Thoughts

The most interesting path is that both degrees give the title “Dr”.

Of course, the paths are totally different. But at the end of the day, the title still holds value, right?

You don’t have to choose these because they give the title “Dr”. The choice should be made based on your interest and goals. Basically, what will make you wake up in the morning without setting an alarm?

No matter what you choose whether it’s MBBS or Pharm.D, you’re still choosing a career that helps people and makes a real difference.

Are you still confused about what to choose? Don’t worry, you can talk to our counselor and figure out what works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PharmD better than MBBS?

Can PharmD holders be called doctors?

Is NEET required for PharmD?

Which course has more global scope?

Can I do PG after PharmD?

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Key Takeaways
  • Course Overview
  • Eligibility Criteria
  • Course Duration & Curriculum Comparison
  • Career Opportunities After Each Course
  • Salary Comparison: MBBS vs PharmD in India & Abroad
  • Global Scope & Licensing
  • Verdict: Which Has More Scope in 2025?
  • Final Thoughts
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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