BUMS (Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery)
BUMS: Mastering the Heritage of Unani Medicine for a Healthier Tomorrow”
Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery is a medical degree rooted in the Unani system, one of the oldest healing sciences that originated in Greece and was developed further by Arabic and Persian scholars. It emphasizes the body’s natural healing abilities and provides treatment using herbal formulations, regimental therapy, and holistic care.
Unani medicine relies on diagnosis based on signs, symptoms, lab reports, and an individual's constitution (Mizaj). It is effective in treating chronic diseases such as eczema, arthritis, vitiligo, asthma, jaundice, and more.
What Does BUMS Stand For?
The Siddha system's Materia Medica is extensive, utilizing herbs, metals, minerals, and organic substances, with advanced metal and mineral usage. Surgical techniques like incision, heat application, and bloodletting are used alongside purgation, fasting, and various therapies.
Siddha medicine attributes body functions to seven elements: plasma (growth and nourishment), blood (muscle nourishment and intellect), muscle (body shape), fatty tissue (joint lubrication), bone (structure and movement), bone marrow (blood formation), and semen (reproduction). Like Ayurveda, it classifies physiological components as Vaadham (air), Pittham (fire), and Kapam (earth and water).
Originating from Tamil culture, the Siddha system is a traditional treatment method documented in ancient palm leaf manuscripts. It is said that Lord Shiva shared this knowledge with Parvati, who passed it to their son Lord Muruga, and he taught sage Agasthya. Agasthya then instructed 18 Siddhas, who disseminated this wisdom. Siddha focuses on 'Ashtamahasiddhi,' or eight supernatural powers, achieved by the Siddhas.
This ancient South Indian healing system views individuals as microcosms of the universe, comprising five elements: earth, fire, water, air, and space.
BUMS Course Highlights
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Course Name | Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery |
| Abbreviation | BUMS |
| Type | Degree |
| Level | Undergraduate |
| Field | Healthcare |
| Eligibility | 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology |
| Course Duration | 5.5 years |
| Average Fee | Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 6 Lakhs |
| Average Salary | Rs. 3L to 10L per Year |
| Career Opportunities | Hakim, Unani Consultant, Therapist, Chemist, Researcher, Lecturer |
| Top Recruiters | Hamdard Labs, Himalaya, Dabur, Baidyanath, Unani Clinics, Govt. Hospitals |
BUMS Course Fees Structure
Tuition fees vary across accredited institutions. Government institutions typically charge lower fees, while private institutions are higher. On average, annual fees for BUMS range from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 3,00,000.
Reasons to Pursue BUMS
- Holistic approach addressing body, mind, and spirit
- Rooted in centuries-old Unani tradition
- High demand for alternative medicine in India and abroad
- Integration of traditional wisdom with modern healthcare
- Opportunities in government, private, and international sectors
BUMS Eligibility Criteria
- Completion of 10+2 or equivalent with minimum 50% marks in Physics, Chemistry & Biology for Unreserved candidates; 40% for reserved categories.
- Must be at least 17 years old by 31 December of the admission year.
- Must clear the NEET entrance exam.
- No maximum age limit.
- Must have studied Tamil in 10th or during the first professional course.
- Must fulfill additional NCISM requirements.
BUMS Course Duration
The BUMS course duration is 5 years and 6 months, consisting of 4.5 years of academic study followed by a 1-year compulsory internship. The internship includes rotations at hospitals, health centres, and camps.
Essential Skills for Excelling in BUMS
- Strong foundation in biology and chemistry.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Attention to detail in diagnostic and treatment methods.
- Empathy and compassion towards patients.
- Good communication skills.
- Ethical awareness.
- Adaptability and resilience in a dynamic field.
BUMS Entrance Exam
Admission requires passing the NEET exam, which is the standard entrance test for BUMS.
BUMS Cut Off
The cut-off is the minimum NEET score needed for admission, varying by year and college. It depends on factors like the number of applicants, exam difficulty, and seat availability.
BUMS Syllabus
The BUMS program is divided into semesters covering core subjects in Siddha medicine and related fields.
1st Year Subjects
- Regional Language
- Communicative English
- Siddha Maruthuva Adippadai Thathuvangalum Varalarum
- Uyir Vedhiyal (Biochemistry)
- Maruthuva Thavaraiyal (Medicinal Botany and Pharmacognosy)
- Nunnuyiriyal (Microbiology)
2nd Year Subjects
| Paper I | Paper II |
|---|---|
| Udal Koorugal (Anatomy): Osteology With Applied Anatomy, Arthrology with Applied Anatomy | Nervous System, Cardiovascular System, Endocrinology |
| Udal Thathuvam (Physiology): Thathuvas, Lymbootham, Kanmendryam, Dhasavayu | General Physiology, Muscle Physiology, Renal Physiology |
| Materiamedica - Plant Kingdom: Properties of drug, Vibagam, Prabhagam | Ulogangal, Pancha Sootham, Pashanangal, Karasaram |
3rd Year Subjects
| Paper I | Paper II |
|---|---|
| Noi Naadal: Siddha Pathology, Mukkutraiyal, Thegailakkanam | Immunopathology, Haemodynamic, Hematology |
| Sattam Sarntha Maruthuvam (Forensic Medicine): Introduction, Medical Law and Ethics, Identity, Medico legal Autopsy | - |
| Nanju Maruthuvam (Toxicology) | - |
| Research Methodology And Medical Statistics: Areas of Research Interest in Siddha, Epidemiological studies | Research Projects and Presentation |
4th Year Subjects
- Noi Anugaa Vidhi Ozhukkam
- Noi Naadal Noi Mudhal Nadal
- Nanju Nool and Maruthuva Neethi Nool
BUMS Course Structure
The BUMS curriculum includes three semesters, core subjects, research submissions, internal assessments, and viva-voce examinations.
BUMS Teaching Methodology and Techniques
The BUMS curriculum integrates diverse teaching methodologies and approaches beyond conventional lecture-based classes. Students receive training in essential areas such as research and development, diagnostic methods, herbal species comprehension, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and nutritional development.
Here are some of the teaching methodologies and techniques embedded within the BUMS course syllabus:
- Academic Lectures
- Holistic Teaching and Approach
- Conceptualized Learning
- Individual Projects
- Group Projects
- Field Survey
- Seminars
- Workshops with Industry Professionals
BUMS Projects
BUMS projects are assigned to students to deepen their comprehension of the subject matter, potentially serving as a springboard for diverse and prosperous careers in Siddha Medicine. Below are listed some popular BUMS project topics.
- Lifestyle management and the improvement provided through yoga practices
- Impact of Ayurveda on maintaining occupational hazards and Ailments
- Pathyapathya’s impact in containing various ailments and diseases
- Ayurvedic formulation and its increase with the help of biotechnology: An analysis
BUMS Reference Books
The BUMS reference materials aid candidates in expanding their comprehension of Unnai medicine course principles. Students receive comprehensive insights into the course to foster their own interpretations and methodologies.
| Name of the Books | Authors |
|---|---|
| The Art and Science of Homoeopathic Pharmacy | Dr. Sumit Goel |
| Principles & Practice of Homoeopathy | M.L. Dhawale's |
| Organon of Medicine | Hahnemann |
| Principles & Practice of Hom | M.L. Dhawale's |
BUMS Admission Process
Any aspirants wanting to take BUMS admission in any colleges offering BUMS course in India will be done only through NEET Score. Since National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) is the only entrance examination across India, no other exam is conducted for admission to BUMS course in India. NEET is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). To get the BUMS admission, aspirants should appear for NEET.
- Registration for Entrance: Aspirants should register by logging into the web portal, entering personal details like applicant name, date of birth, mobile number, email ID, etc.
- Form Filling and Documents Upload: After registration, candidates fill the application form online providing personal and academic details and upload required documents.
- Payment of NEET Application Fee: Candidates pay the application fee after form submission.
- Download Confirmation Page: Printout of the application form and confirmation page is taken once the status is confirmed.
- Admit Card: Admit cards are issued to eligible candidates based on submitted records.
- Entrance Exams: Candidates appear for the entrance exams and qualify to get a merit rank.
- Counselling: Conducted by AYUSH Admissions Central Counselling Committee (AACCC) for All India Quota and other seats as per state authorities. Candidates choose colleges based on rank.
BUMS Specializations
The BUMS degree program offers diverse specializations to students. Some of these options include:
- Maruthuvam
- Gunapadam
- Kuzhandhai Maruthuvam
- Noi Naadal
- Nanju Maruthuvam
- Pura Maruthuvam
- Varma Maruthuvam
- Siddhar Yoga Maruthuvam
BUMS Career and Job Opportunities
What after BUMS?
Individuals holding a BUMS degree are recognized as doctors and eligible to establish private practices. After completing exams and a 12-month internship, graduates receive the Bachelor of Siddha Medicine and Surgery degree.
What Comes Next After BUMS?
After internship, graduates can begin practicing as doctors. BUMS opens doors to government and private sector jobs, or further studies such as MD (Siddha), postgraduate diplomas, or doctorate programs. Opportunities also include clinical research and public health master's degrees.
Career Opportunities Beyond Borders
Graduates find jobs in India and abroad, especially in manufacturing, research, government hospitals, retail Siddha medicine outlets, teaching, and clinics. Popular job titles include Siddha Drug Specialist, Medical Representative, Pharmacist, and more.
Job Opportunities Abroad for BUMS Graduates
Many foreign countries are adopting alternative medicine including Ayurveda and Siddha. This expands opportunities for BUMS graduates internationally. With the right skills, they can find success in nations embracing non-allopathic medicinal practices.
Top Companies for BUMS Graduates
- Vicco Laboratories
- National Rural Health Mission
- Charak Pharma
- National Ayush Mission
- Himalaya Wellness
- Patanjali
- Dabur Ltd
- Baidyanath
Best Countries for BUMS Graduates
These countries either originate or have strong Siddha/Ayurveda traditions or a large manufacturing and customer base:
- India
- Nepal
- Sri Lanka
- China
- USA
- Russia
- Austria
- Bhutan
- Japan
- Canada
- Switzerland
- Argentina
- Germany
Career Designations Abroad for BUMS Graduates
Developed countries in Europe and North America offer many career roles incorporating Siddha and Ayurveda including:
- Physiologist
- Fitness Trainer
- Chiropractor
- Clinical Researcher
- Medical Representative
- Assistant Claim Manager Health
- Business Development Officer
- Therapist
- Pharmacist
- Drug Safety Officer
- Pathologist
- Scientist
BUMS Scope
- Clinical trials
- Healthcare community
- Life science industries
- Pharmaceutical industries
- Education
- Healthcare IT
- Insurance
- On-duty doctor positions
- Nursing homes
- Spa resorts
- Government/private hospitals
- Dispensaries
- Colleges
- Research institutes
- Medical tourism industry
- Hotel industry
- Nursing industry
BUMS Doctors Salary
BAMS Doctors Salary: What to Expect
BUMS is a relatively new course in India gaining prominence, with increasing candidates every year. The average salary of BUMS graduates ranges between INR 3-5 LPA (Source: Payscale). Below are some common job roles and their average annual salaries:
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Drug Safety Officer | INR 4.6 LPA |
| Medical Consultant | INR 7.2 LPA |
| Research Assistant (Medical) | INR 3.5 LPA |
| Clinical Research Associate | INR 3.4 LPA |
| Pathologist | INR 10 LPA |
Government Jobs for BUMS Graduates
Government roles in various sectors offer lucrative salary packages for BUMS graduates. Hiring typically involves entrance exams and interviews. Common employers include National Ayush Mission, National Rural Health Mission, public hospitals, and academic institutions.
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Drug Safety Officer | INR 4.6 LPA |
| Community Health Worker | INR 2.3 LPA |
| Medical Officer | INR 6.4 LPA |
| Research Assistant (Medical) | INR 3.5 LPA |
Private Jobs for BUMS Graduates
The private sector offers diverse opportunities, including healthcare, blogging, social media, and drug control sectors. The average salary is between INR 3-5 LPA. Some common job roles include:
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Medical Consultant | INR 7.2 LPA |
| Medical Assistant | INR 3 LPA |
| Clinical Research Associate | INR 3.4 LPA |
| Pathologist | INR 10 LPA |
Top Recruiters for BUMS Graduates in India
- Vicco Laboratories
- National Rural Health Mission
- Charak Pharma
- National Ayush Mission
- Himalaya Wellness
- Patanjali
- Dabur Ltd
- Baidyanath
Top 10 Siddha Colleges in India
This list is based on student priority in AACCC counselling from recent years.
| Rank | College Name | Established Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ayurvedic & Unani Tibbia College, Delhi | 1916 |
| 2 | Faculty of Ayurveda, BHU Varanasi | 1920 |
| 3 | National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur | 1976 |
| 4 | Govt Ayurvedic College & Hospital, Varanasi | 1965 |
| 5 | MMM Govt Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Udaipur | 1944 |
| 6 | Govt Ayurvedic Medical College, Lucknow | 1948 |
| 7 | Institute of Teaching & Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar | 1967 |
| 8 | Ch. Brahm Prakash Ayurved Charak Sansthan, Delhi | 2007 |
| 9 | Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Govt Ayurvedic College, Prayagraj | 1964 |
| 10 | Shri Krishna Govt Ayurvedic College, Kurukshetra | 1972 |
Need More Information?
You can download the official BSMS course guidelines as a pdf.
📄 Download BSMS PDF Guide