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.
Feature | MBBS | PharmD |
---|---|---|
Full Form | Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery | Doctor of Pharmacy |
Type of Degree | Undergraduate Professional Degree | Doctoral Professional Degree |
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.
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 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)
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 |
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
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 |
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.
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?
Check your NEET 2025 Result now
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