As the NEET UG 2025 results are eagerly awaited, many students might be considering alternative career paths if they don't secure an MBBS seat. While MBBS remains a popular choice, several other high-paying and rewarding options are available in the medical and related fields. NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is the primary entrance exam for medical and healthcare-related studies in India. The NEET UG 2025 exam was held on May 4, 2025, and the results are expected around June 14, 2025.
Here are five promising alternatives to MBBS that can lead to fulfilling and lucrative careers:
1. Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS): BDS is a five-year program (including a one-year internship) that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating oral diseases. According to recent data, dentists are in high demand across clinics and hospitals. The course covers various aspects of dental health, including dental surgery, prosthodontics, and orthodontics. A fresh graduate can earn between ₹3 to ₹8 lakh per year, but those with an MDS degree or a private practice can make ₹15 to ₹30 lakh or more annually. The curriculum includes dental anatomy, oral pathology, biochemistry, and dental materials.
2. Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS): BAMS is a 5.5-year program (including an internship) that combines traditional Ayurvedic medicine with modern medical practices. The course blends Ayurvedic philosophy, diagnosis, and herbal remedies with contemporary anatomy and physiology. With the increasing interest in wellness tourism and natural therapies, BAMS graduates have opportunities in various sectors. Graduates can work as Ayurvedic practitioners, therapists, researchers, or lecturers. The starting salary typically ranges from ₹3 to ₹6 lakh per year. Students must pass the NEET UG and have earned at least 50 per cent in physics, chemistry, and biology in their 10+2 coursework in order to be eligible to enrol.
3. Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS): BHMS is a 5.5-year undergraduate program that focuses on homeopathic medicine, which uses natural remedies to treat chronic diseases. Homeopathy is popular in India and Europe, offering graduates opportunities as homeopathic doctors, consultants, and researchers. The curriculum includes anatomy, homeopathy materia medica, pathology, and the organon of medicine with homeopathic philosophy. The starting salary for BHMS graduates ranges from ₹2.5 to ₹5 lakh per year.
4. Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm): B.Pharm is a four-year course focused on drug development, pharmacology, clinical research, and regulatory affairs. To be eligible, students must have passed 10+2 with either PCB or physics, chemistry and mathematics (PCM) and gotten at least 50 per cent of the marks (45 per cent for reserved categories). While some institutes accept NEET UG scores, most colleges rely on state entrance exams like MHT CET or AP EAMCET, or simply consider Class 12 results. Graduates can find opportunities in pharmaceutical companies, research labs, and regulatory agencies, with roles such as pharmacists, drug inspectors, and research scientists. The average salary for different job profiles in the Pharmacy sector: Medical Science Liaison – Rs 3.8 Lakhs to Rs 15 Lakhs, Research Scientists – Rs 3.0 Lakhs to Rs 18.0 Lakhs.
5. Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc): For animal lovers, BVSc is a rewarding career option. This program involves diagnosing, treating, and performing surgeries on animals. Graduates can work in veterinary hospitals, animal shelters, or private practices. The course covers animal anatomy, physiology, and various veterinary medical practices.
Additional High-Paying Alternatives
Beyond these, several other science-related fields offer excellent career prospects:
Ultimately, the choice of a career path depends on individual interests, skills, and career goals. While MBBS is a respected and sought-after profession, these alternative options offer fulfilling and financially rewarding careers for students with a passion for science and healthcare.
